buyer's forum

Lessons In Frame Buying

by Amy Spiezio

When it comes to selecting frames, those not in the frame buyer's seat may think it's nothing but a fun job—a chance to take one's love of shopping and get paid for it. Those who are making the big choices every day, however, may tell a different story. Often buyers fall into their positions based on their success in the dispensary and their natural flair for frame selection. That's when extra education may come in handy.

This month at Vision Expo East, Eyecare Business is sponsoring the FrameBuyer's Certificate program with The Vision Council's Frames and Accessories Division. Previous participants in the program note that the courses have myriad benefits.

PEER CONTACT: You may mystery shop the competition, but you might not have the opportunity to talk about business with non-competing professionals in the same position. “There are a lot of people who have only had on-the-job training. And as someone who has only worked at one clinic, this is my only other place to get information,” says Nancy Kobylski, Teton Eye Clinic, Jackson, Wy.

“I always get some good ideas and find them really helpful—especially when you are able to interact with other attendees and hear their about what they're doing,” says Katie Billman, Folsom Optometry Center, Folsom, Calif.

INSIDE INSIGHTS: Even those who have been in their frame buying roles for a long time can benefit from a fresh perspective of someone else in the industry. “The Frame Buyers' Certificate program was a great opportunity to hear a variety of different approaches to successful frame and vendor selection and evaluation,” says Kobylski.

“It always gives you fresh, new ideas. Even if your business is doing well, you might learn something that will make it even better,” Billman adds.

For more information, visit Visionexpo.com

Photography: Bill Diodato Styling: Newheart Ohanian Hair and Makeup: Vassilis Kokkidis/Ford Artists Model: Meggie Weinheimer Tuskania/Willy Eyewear: Mario Galbatti style MG 145 by Best Image Optical