5 questions to ask yourself before a job interview

5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before a Job Interview at an Opticians

Preparing for a job interview can feel like stepping into the unknown, especially in an industry as dynamic and people focused as opticians. Whether you’re a seasoned optical professional or just starting out, taking the time to reflect on yourself before an interview can make all the difference. At Inspired Recruitment, we know that preparation is key to helping candidates succeed in their careers. That’s why we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Below, we’ve adapted an article from Indeed’s career page and tailored it for those pursuing roles in opticians. These five questions will help you prepare and boost your confidence, ensuring you’re ready to shine.

1. What past accomplishments are you most proud of?

Think about your achievements, whether they’re from work or outside of it. Focus on experiences relevant to an optician's environment. For example, did you help a patient choose the perfect pair of glasses, improving their confidence and vision? Did you suggest a process that reduced wait times for eye tests?

One candidate we worked with shared how they reorganised the stockroom to make finding frames faster. This not only streamlined operations but also improved patient satisfaction. Remember, your success stories don’t just show what you’ve done; they highlight the value you bring to a team. These examples can be used to answer open-ended questions like:

Interviewer: Tell me about yourself.

Candidate: I’m someone who loves finding solutions and making a difference. For instance, at my previous opticians, I noticed our scheduling system often double-booked patients, leading to frustration. I collaborated with the team to implement an online booking system that cut errors by 50% and improved patient reviews. Seeing the positive impact on both staff and patients was incredibly rewarding.

2. What three things do you want to get better at this year?

Self-improvement shows employers that you’re forward-thinking. Consider skills that align with the role you’re applying for. For instance, do you want to:

• Improve your knowledge of the latest optical technologies?

• Enhance your communication skills for explaining complex prescriptions?

• Develop your ability to manage a busy clinic?

  
  

Here’s how this might play out in an interview:

Interviewer: Can you tell me about a time you delivered excellent service?

Candidate: Absolutely. A patient once came in upset because they’d broken their only pair of glasses. I listened carefully to their concerns and prioritised their case. We found a temporary solution while their new frames were expedited. That experience taught me the importance of empathy, and I’m always looking for ways to enhance my ability to support patients during stressful moments.

3. What skills do you have that differentiate you from your peers?

What makes you stand out? Maybe you’re great at troubleshooting lens issues or have an uncanny ability to put anxious patients at ease. Think about moments when your skills solved a problem or improved a process.

For example, one Inspired candidate shared how their attention to detail helped catch an error in a patient’s prescription before it was dispensed. Their ability to spot mistakes saved the practice time and preserved the patient’s trust. Sharing stories like these demonstrates your unique contributions to the team.

4. What would your colleagues say is the best thing about working with you?

Feedback from colleagues can provide insights into your strengths. Think about times when coworkers have come to you for advice or support. Are you known for your patience, your expertise in recommending the right frames, or your ability to lighten the mood during a stressful day?

One candidate we placed recalled how their colleagues often asked them to handle difficult customers because of their calm demeanour. In an interview, this could translate into:

Interviewer: How would your coworkers describe you?

Candidate: They’d probably say I’m approachable and dependable. At my last job, I was often the go-to person for resolving customer complaints. I pride myself on finding solutions that leave everyone feeling heard and valued.

5. Where do you want to be in three or five years?

This classic interview question can be tricky, but it’s an opportunity to show ambition. Reflect on where you see yourself within the optical industry. Do you want to:

• Specialise in a specific area like contact lenses?

• Take on a managerial role?

• Stay up to date with cutting-edge eye-care innovations?

  
  

Employers aren’t looking for a rigid plan but rather a sense of direction. Here’s how you might answer:

Interviewer: Where do you see yourself in five years?

Candidate: I’d love to deepen my expertise in advanced lens technologies. In the long term, I’m interested in stepping into a leadership role, mentoring others, and helping the practice grow. I’m passionate about delivering excellent patient care and want to continue contributing to the field in meaningful ways.

Why Choose Inspired Recruitment?

At Inspired Recruitment, we do more than match candidates with vacancies. We take the time to understand your goals, skills, and aspirations, helping you find roles where you can thrive. Whether it’s preparing for interviews, providing feedback, or offering career advice, we’re with you every step of the way.

Working in an optician’s practice isn’t just about checking prescriptions or adjusting frames. It’s about changing lives by improving vision and confidence. We’re proud to connect talented professionals like you with opportunities to make a real difference.

Ready to take the next step in your optical career? Let Inspired Recruitment help you find your perfect fit. Get in touch today and discover how we can support your journey.

Mark Goode

CEO Inspired Recruitment

Mark Goode is the CEO of The Inspired Recruitment Group which originated with the inception of Inspired Selections a recruitment agency primarily focused on recruitment in the optical industry before branching out into audiology and pharmaceutical recruitment. New optical opportunities are featured daily here or if you're a business, looking for help with your recruitment needs, get in touch here