Interview Question
Cheat Sheet

Be prepared for both behavioral and technical questions.

Common Interview Questions

Q

Tell me about a time you had to troubleshoot a prescription.

A
Explain your technical process: checking the vertex distance, pantoscopic tilt, and wrap. Highlight your problem-solving skills and patient communication.
Q

How do you handle a patient who is unhappy with their new progressive lenses?

A
Discuss the 'adaptation period' education, re-checking measurements, and verifying the fitting cross. Emphasize patience and empathy.
Q

What is your approach to frame styling for high-minus prescriptions?

A
Mention minimizing lens thickness through smaller frame sizes, high-index materials, and rounded shapes to reduce edge thickness.

The STAR Method

For behavioral questions (those that start with "Tell me about a time..."), use the STAR method to structure your response. This ensures you provide a complete, focused answer that demonstrates your competence.

  • S - Situation: Set the scene and provide context.
  • T - Task: Describe the challenge or goal you were facing.
  • A - Action: Explain the specific steps you took to address the situation.
  • R - Result: Share the positive outcome and what you learned.

Questions You Should Ask

An interview is a two-way street. Asking insightful questions shows you are serious about your career and interested in the practice's success.

  • What is the typical patient volume per day?
  • What lab equipment do you have on-site?
  • Do you offer mentorship for newly licensed opticians?
  • What are the primary lens brands you prefer to dispense?

Post-Interview Follow-Up

Within 24 hours, send a brief thank-you email to everyone you interviewed with. Mention a specific technical topic you discussed to show you were engaged. This small gesture often makes the difference between a candidate who is "good" and one who is "great."

Bonus Success Tips

The Technical Test

Be ready to perform a manual lensometry reading or a standard 3-point frame alignment on the spot.

Showcase Your Certs

Bring copies of your ABO and NCLE certifications, and your state license if applicable.

Update Your Resume