{ JOB advice }

Ready…Set...Go!

Everybody has to walk before they run, so take a deep breath and consider taking these steps

BY JENEAN CARLTON, BA, ABOC, NCLC

Now that you’ve started your new job as a dispenser, you may feel somewhat overwhelmed by the many aspects of the position. This is quite normal because the optical industry encompasses so many areas of patient care as well as a vast amount of information.

Instead of trying to absorb everything, why not focus on a few ways to be of value to your practice right now? Once these skills are acquired, you can then begin concentrating on more complex areas such as optics, lens technology, and the human vision system.

No. 1 GREET EACH PATIENT

Immediately greet patients when they enter the practice. Introduce yourself and, if you’re busy with other patients, let them know you or another staff member will be with them as soon as possible. Acknowledging patients as soon as they arrive is incredibly important; it lets them know the staff is friendly and attentive.

No. 2 HELP WITH FLOW

If you see patients sitting for long periods or wandering as if lost, ask if they are being helped. If not, escort them to the appropriate area.

Managing patient flow is a big responsibility for everyone in the business. Keep track of patients and escort them to each department as necessary until their visit is complete.

No. 3 SHADOW AN EXPERT

Ask your manager if you can shadow someone in the practice who has many years of experience as an optician. A licensed optician is an ideal choice for this role.

If you work in a state that isn’t licensed, look for someone on staff who is willing to mentor you and who has worked with patients for several years. Experienced staff members will likely be happy to teach you as long as they know you are loyal to the practice and are willing to work as a team player.

No. 4 LEARN THE SOFTWARE

If your boss agrees, learning the software system is a great way to help the practice while becoming familiar with patient orders. Pay close attention when inputting orders. After a little training, you’ll be asked to enter the prescription, measurements, lens designs and materials, frame information, and tints and coatings accurately so the lenses are made correctly and correct inventory levels are maintained.

Jenean Carlton is a licensed optician with more than 25 years of experience. She writes articles, teaches classes, and readily admits to owning too many pairs of glasses!