17 Optician Interview Questions and Answers

Opticians are the unsung heroes of the eyeglasses industry. They work behind the scenes to make sure that your new frames look great and that the prescription is correct. They also help customers choose the right lenses for their needs and budget.

If you’re looking for an optician job, you’ll need to be prepared to answer some questions about your experience and knowledge. In this guide, we’ll provide you with some sample questions and answers that you can use to help you prepare for your interview.

Are you familiar with the different types of lenses that are available for eyeglasses?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to assess your knowledge of the different types of lenses that are available for eyeglasses. This can help them determine if you have the necessary skills and experience to perform well in this role. In your answer, try to list as many lens types as possible and explain what each type is used for.

Example: “There are several different types of lenses that are available for eyeglasses. I am familiar with all of these types, including single vision, bifocal, progressive and tinted. Single vision lenses correct one’s vision by changing the way light enters the eye. Bifocal lenses allow people who need both distance and near vision correction to wear just one pair of glasses. Progressive lenses provide clear vision at multiple distances without having to switch between two pairs of glasses. Tinted lenses change the color of light entering the eyes.”

What are some of the most important factors you consider when helping a customer find a new pair of glasses?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to assess your customer service skills and ability to work with customers. Your answer should include several factors that are important when helping customers find glasses, such as style, color, price and comfort.

Example: “I always make sure the frames fit my customer’s face well and that they’re comfortable enough for them to wear all day. I also consider how much they want to spend on their new glasses and help them find a pair within their budget. Finally, I make sure the glasses match their personality and style.”

How would you describe the role of an optician in the production of eyewear?

This question is an opportunity to describe your understanding of the role and responsibilities of an optician. It also allows you to highlight any specific skills or experiences that make you a good fit for this position.

Example: “An optician’s primary responsibility is ensuring that each pair of glasses they produce meets the needs of their customer. This means taking measurements, asking questions about what type of vision correction the wearer requires and making sure the eyewear fits properly. I believe my communication skills are an asset in this role because I can explain the process clearly to customers and help them feel comfortable while trying on different pairs of glasses.”

What is your experience with working with patients who have special needs?

Employers may ask this question to see if you have experience working with patients who need extra assistance. They want to know that you can provide quality service to all of your patients, regardless of their needs. In your answer, share a specific example of how you helped a patient with special needs and what challenges you faced while doing so.

Example: “I once worked with a patient who had autism. He was very anxious about getting his eyes examined, but I used my calm demeanor to help him feel more comfortable. I talked to him throughout the exam and explained each step as we went along. By the end of the appointment, he was much calmer than when he started. It’s important for me to be able to adapt to any situation in order to provide the best care possible.”

Provide an example of a time when you had to help a patient who was unhappy with their current eyewear.

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle customer service challenges. In your answer, try to highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to create a positive experience for the patient.

Example: “I once had a patient who was unhappy with their current eyewear because they couldn’t see clearly through them. I asked the patient what they liked about their previous glasses and used that information to find new frames that would be similar in style. After trying on several pairs of glasses, the patient found a pair that worked well for them. They were happy with their new glasses and even told me they felt more confident at work.”

If a patient has a busy schedule, how would you make sure they keep their appointments?

Interviewers ask this question to see if you can help patients manage their time and ensure they keep their appointments. They want to know that you will be able to communicate with your patients about scheduling, rescheduling or canceling appointments. In your answer, explain how you would make sure the patient understands when their next appointment is and how you would encourage them to attend.

Example: “I always try to schedule my patients’ appointments at times where it’s convenient for them. If a patient has a busy schedule, I’ll work with them to find an appointment time that works best for them. For example, if they have a job where they’re working until 5 p.m., I may suggest we do their eye exam in the morning so they don’t need to rush after work.”

What would you do if you noticed a coworker making a mistake when measuring a patient for new glasses?

This question can help interviewers understand how you work with others and your ability to communicate. Your answer should show that you are willing to speak up when necessary, but also that you respect the opinions of others.

Example: “If I noticed a coworker making an error while measuring a patient for glasses, I would first make sure they were aware of their mistake. If it was something small like misreading a measurement, I might ask if they’d like me to re-measure so they could double check. If it was a more serious mistake, such as not taking proper measurements or failing to record important information, I would let my manager know immediately so they could address the issue.”

How well can you see without your own glasses or contacts?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your visual acuity. They want to know that you can see well enough to perform all of the duties required of an optician, such as measuring patients’ eyes and selecting frames. Your answer should show that you have excellent vision without glasses or contacts.

Example: “I don’t wear my own glasses or contacts because I have 20/20 vision. However, I do understand how important it is to find eyewear that fits properly and looks good on each patient. In fact, I’ve been complimented many times by customers who say they love their new glasses.”

Do you have experience working with children?

Employers may ask this question to see if you have experience working with children and how well you can handle their unique needs. If you do not have direct experience, you can talk about your ability to work with people of all ages and personalities.

Example: “I have worked with many children in my previous role as an optician because I was the only one on staff who had a lot of experience working with kids. I enjoy helping them pick out frames that they love and explaining what each pair does. It’s important for me to make sure every child feels comfortable when they’re at the office so they can get their glasses without any issues.”

When measuring a patient for eyeglasses, how do you ensure that the measurements are accurate?

This question can help the interviewer determine your attention to detail and ability to perform a task that requires precision. Your answer should include steps you take to ensure measurements are precise, such as using a ruler or other measuring device and ensuring that you’re holding it at eye level.

Example: “I always use a ruler when measuring patients for eyeglasses because I find it’s the most accurate way to measure their eyes. When taking measurements, I hold the ruler at eye level and make sure my hand is steady so I don’t get inaccurate results. I also ask the patient if they see any double vision or blurry spots in their field of vision.”

We want to make sure our patients feel welcome and comfortable when they visit our facility. How would you introduce yourself to a new patient?

Interviewers ask this question to see how you interact with patients and if you can make them feel comfortable. When answering, try to show that you are friendly and welcoming.

Example: “I would introduce myself by my name and tell the patient a little bit about myself. I would also let them know what they should expect during their visit. For example, I might say ‘Hi, my name is Jane Smith. I am an optician who has been working in this facility for five years. Today, we will be measuring your eyesight, testing your color vision and discussing which frames you like best.’ This helps put the patient at ease.”

Describe your experience working with insurance companies.

Employers may ask this question to learn more about your experience with insurance companies. They want to know if you have any previous experience working with them and how it went. If you do, share what the process was like for you. If not, explain that you are willing to work with an insurance company if needed.

Example: “I’ve never worked with an insurance company before, but I am familiar with how they work. When I first started as an optician, my employer taught me how to fill out paperwork for insurance companies. It’s a lengthy process, but I understand the importance of doing so. I would be happy to continue filling out these forms on behalf of customers.”

What makes you the best candidate for this position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their team. Before your interview, make a list of all the skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for this role. Focus on highlighting your soft skills such as communication and organization, along with any technical skills you have related to working in an optical shop.

Example: “I am passionate about helping others see clearly, which is why I became an optician in the first place. My experience working at two different optical shops has given me valuable insight into what customers want from their eyeglasses and contact lenses. I also understand the importance of providing quality customer service, so I always try my best to help patients find frames they love while answering their questions.”

Which eyeglass frames do you prefer to wear?

This question is a way for the interviewer to get an idea of your personal style and fashion sense. It’s important that you choose frames that are in line with the store’s inventory, but it can also be helpful if you mention a frame that isn’t currently available at the location.

Example: “I prefer classic styles like metal frames or tortoise shell glasses. I think they look great on anyone and go well with any outfit. However, I’m not opposed to wearing more modern styles as long as they’re appropriate for my client.”

What do you think is the most important aspect of customer service?

Interviewers ask this question to see how you prioritize your work and what skills you use to provide excellent customer service. When answering, think about the most important aspect of customer service that you’ve seen in a previous role.

Example: “I believe the most important part of providing good customer service is listening to customers’ needs and being empathetic to their concerns. I always make sure to listen carefully when customers are describing their vision problems or questions so that I can understand exactly what they need help with. This helps me better serve them by recommending frames or lenses that will best solve their problem.”

How often do you see an optometrist?

Interviewers may ask this question to see if you have a regular optometrist. They want to know that you are taking care of your eyes and overall health. In your answer, explain how often you go to the doctor for an eye exam. If you do not have a regular optometrist, tell them about the steps you take to ensure you get regular exams.

Example: “I visit my optometrist every year. I find it important to keep up with my vision because it can change over time. My last appointment was six months ago, and everything looked great. I also make sure to eat healthy foods and exercise regularly.”

There is a miscommunication with a patient and they leave with the wrong eyewear. What do you do?

This question is an opportunity to show your problem-solving skills and ability to communicate with customers. You can use this as a chance to highlight how you would handle the situation, including any steps you would take to ensure the customer returns for their correct eyewear.

Example: “If there was a miscommunication between myself and the patient, I would immediately contact them to see if they could return to the store so we could fix the issue. If it’s not possible for them to come back in, I would offer to ship out the correct pair of glasses at no cost to the patient. This way, I can make sure that the customer has what they need and continue building trust with my business.”