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So many brands sold well!
It just proves that when patients find an ECP they love, they will travel far and wide to see you.
A tale of one customer who thought complaints alone would solve his problem.
It’s how you deal with them that really matters.
Owning an independent eyecare practice requires our small business to be nimble, and adjust to changing conditions. INVISION gives me ideas to implement from experts that...
Of course snorkeling in Maui and skiing in Colorado aren't too shabby either.
With the help of local artists, they injected a little rebelliousness into their branding look.
They've branded themselves the ‘Eyewear Gurus’ for the millennial generation.
Limited mixing of business and pleasure (or politics) here.
Most nutraceuticals are sold online or over-the-counter but more and more patients are asking for specific recommendations from their optometrist.
They have us rethinking coming at them sideways.
Including a resource for women patients with Traumatic Brain Injuries and a new license for luxury car lovers.
They aren’t the only game in town, but they are currently among the most overlooked from small businesses.
These frames offer total (okay, at least partial) transparency.
Luca Mariotti’s EYEFRAME system lets the optical owner exist totally independently from big frame makers.
Eye decor for your person and your business.
Metal, pattern and texture kick off the new year strong.
And planning for Valentine's Day and VEE should be well underway.
Plis ideas for celebrating Punxsutawney Phil and pigskins.
The coming year has “eyecare” written all over it. But what changes can we expect to see in eyecare and eyewear as we enter a new...
Her ethics are being tested on her first day on the job.
Including creating a personal shrine, accepting you can't do it all and fighting bad habits.
Sometimes the biggest impacts we make are the ones we don’t notice.
And how to share chores among staff to make sure they get done.
Only 3 percent of people will take the time and discipline to do this, but they'll make more than 10 times the 97 percent who didn’t.
Perhaps it's time to accept that you, without even realizing it, build the walls and barriers that keep patients from purchasing more.
Eyes that can't see and watches you don't need to.
Thinking of getting dressed up for a Christmas event? Go green.
Did your favorite sunnies make the cut?
Combining eyecare and eyewear with a range of self-care offerings, they treat not just the eye, but the rest of the body as well.
Let go of any preconceived notions; yoga is for everyone.
Even the most successful DIYers know when to call in a pro — and doing so can free up their time for bigger and better things.
Also, proper staff gift-giving etiquette and getting the most out of staff trainers.
Sun sales started heading south for the winter.
For others... there seems to be a lot of very "hard workers" who "procrastinate!"
In the end, it is the least expensive and most productive business tool in your arsenal.
And scientific papers cliff notes for the busy ECP.
Including billing, Flex Spending, recalls and sales incentives for all.
And we're calling for a return of National Opticians Day, who's with us?
THE BIG SURVEY 2019 The Basics You, The ECP Buying & Selling Performance Management & Staff Marketing & Operations Who is the American ECP? How does...
They knew that if they treated patients right, the business would succeed.
And addressing some other sensitive subjects you might encounter in the workplace.
Click through for frames that make a statement and diagnostics with a small footprint.
Video projection and artificial intelligence (AI) are some of the features that differentiate devices in the low vision space.
We asked and you answered! These are the preferred ophthalmic styles of INVISION readers.
47. Which gets the largest portion of your marketing budget? Print 13% Community events (including sponsorships) 12% Direct mail 10% Other social media marketing 8% Paid...
35. What is the top staffing challenge you face? Recruiting 33% Keeping staff motivated 25% Boosting productivity 18% Retaining top talent 14% No major staffing challenges...
19-22. Top 10 best-performing brands: NOTE: Lens and contact lens brands were a little less clear cut because, due to self-reporting and a lack of consistency...
28. Looking at the last two years, would you rate either of them as the “best” or “worst” ever in terms of your business’s financial performance?...
10. On a scale of 1 to 10, rate your satisfaction with your professional life and life as a whole NOTE: Of the many different professionals...
Including smothering her cats with affection and weekend dive bar sing-a-longs just to name two.
A tale as old as time that gives new meaning to being in 'hot' water.
But some of you have gotten creative, sending Thanksgiving cards or texts patients can respond to.
'I love it. I read it. I try to live it.'
The secret is to keep the call casual and friendly...
And while you're at it build an anti-flu kit and get personal.
These five practices added an extra dimension to the optical experience and became genuine destinations.
What would you say to an OD who balked at legal firearms in her office?
But before he goes, let's review some key points of The EyeCoach Selling System he's been sharing these past several years.
They created a safe space for self-expression.
25 ECPs put who they are and what they do for a living in a sentence or two... or three.
How you finish the year has a major impact on how you start the next one. Year-end is a tricky, busy time. You need to be...
And we've got an idea for a social media post any independent ECP can do.
Plus a reader tip for how she get this things done in a day.
Now let’s be clear… All customers are important. And all customers should be treated as such… but when we asked our readers about their most important...
Plot twist: Robert Bell decided not to teach you a damn thing a long time ago.
It prompts them to make an emotional selection.
It isn't experience, skills or talent... it's all in the mindset.
What she thought was a scab had legs.
The doc wants to keep treating him and hopes to erase that negative online review despite his overdue balance.
Products that tackle the vision issues associated with cold weather sports and how to sell them.
'Which Hogwarts House would you belong to and why?'
And you won't need a magic spell to do it.
Such a manual details and explains how a store should look and how to keep it looking that way.
And the CDC and Prevent Blindness both release informative reports and resources or practitioners.
Frames that could never be considered a mistake and equipment that ensures you never make any.
It’s a rare occurrence, but sometimes, trees can bring the sun(s)!
She also poses a valid question ... why do so many digital platforms require monthly subscriptions?
Including a chic, no-waste business card holder and a high-octane lens cleaner safe for premium coatings.
What they are saying on the inside is just as, sometimes more, compelling than their exteriors.
Love your magazine!
Sunwear sales reached their apex.
And many who don't, haven't because they are one man shows of boast impressively long staff tenures.
Plus its all fun and games until someone gets drunk at the company holiday party ... how to protect your business from potential trouble.
These Ohio vision therapy specialists demonstrate how they help see their athletes succeed and their practice grow.
In a perfect world, we’d get all our vitamins and minerals from a healthy, organic, well-balanced diet ... but we live in the real world.
A love of fashion and a great social media touch keep things radiant at Luminance Vision Optometry.
And this bonus season, let them eat cake!
And beware those household chemicals; the entire month is dedicated to eye safety at home.
It is OK not to know everything, but it is not OK to remain ignorant.
The no-show who showed ... briefly.
And do you have a local professional photographer on speed dial yet? There are so many ways one can benefit your business.
You’re about to get much better at selling.
We challenge you to implement one of these 23 ‘How To’s in your practice before the year is out.
Plus ISVA's 'dynamic' skills for sports.
Bells and whistles your paper charts definitely don't possess.
They had such high hopes: What can the practice do better next time?
Engraved line, ripples and bumps on some sense-ational styles.
Vision care never looked so good.
You're a talented bunch! Some of you should go on the road.
4 easy tips you can implement today to start living a healthier lifestyle.
Hint: A stunning optical, exam lane AND plans to put in an edger.
Plus additional products that prove eyecare could be a cult...
To unwind she communes with nature and looks for those elusive four leaf clovers.
Glitter isn't just for arts and crafts anymore.
Even in a digital era, they find them to be an essential business tool.
Plus the two most powerful words to add to your sales pitch and the power of 'Polish.'
It gives patients a reason to visit based on product assortment rather than discounts.
HIGH ROLLER SUITE These products didn’t come to play, they came to win, and you can bet they pay off big. All-In Made with Japanese titanium,...
With the war for talent showing no signs of letting up, it’s a great time to revisit your recruiting efforts.
And your return policy may not be as ironclad as you think when it comes to minors.
The rest of you are missing out on a valuable marketing opportunity.
We've got the perfect humorous opener to take the annoyance out of your telemarketing calls.
Back-to-school season has started!
And no, it isn't for service dogs.
They just might hep you save the sale.
Don’t change a thing!
And how to do little infomercials from the show floor to come back to eager customers looking to buy.
Many of the rest would like to offer it.
Rx lenses are made but they never get dispensed so that a plano sun gets covered by insurance.
AR coatings are obviously a must and one specific material is most of your MVP.
You're just doing it wrong anyway.
And in their downtime it's dance parties, hitting the slopes and a little hot tub time after hours.
Espresso bars, large screen TVs and foot massages just distract from what customers really want.
With about 200 different telehealth models being run today, ECPs have to decide which tools, if any, add value to their services.
Proper etiquette can result in a major boost to your office’s retention rate.
No longer just a fringe New Age theory, science supports the positive benefits of mind-body therapies to minimize suffering and enhance wellbeing.
People said their business would be ‘too funky’ for the Midwest but they proved their critics wrong.
Plus call a meeting of your fun committee and a simple and inexpensive way to protect your business.
Our America's Finest honorees could inspire a nation.
Including the 'Opticians Helping America See' branding.
Plus myopia 'Cliff's Notes' from CORE and proof that optometry improves health.
From AMERICAN IDOL to Zendaya, these frames showcase the creative visions of a range of celebrities.
Cinema, culture and technology all play their part in the newest frames and lenses.
They had faith that the neighborhood would support them; and they were right.
The largest selection of frames in the area, old-school repairs and an in-house digital lab, just don't come in looking for an exam.
Wink Family Eye Care of SLP, Louis Park, MN Wink Family Eye Care of SLP opened its doors on Jan. 15, 2018 with Dr. Roman Gerber...
Sunwear sales are on the rise for summer.
See what's coming up so you can start making plans.
Thank you to you too!
And overcome feeling uninspired at work by doing more of what you love.
This Chicago optical’s in-house branding effort is confident and consistent.
She came up with a nine-step program for employees.
Don't miss: How to set attainable goals and offload older merchandise.
No two exit strategies are exactly the same.
8 options that address the three factors patients want in their golf glasses.
Plus don't underestimate the power of mini-breaks or shortened work weeks during warmer months.
A couple of 'Dirty Thirty' birthdays worth noting.
Know your niche.
It's a great way to get accurate patient measurements.
Plus it has the added benefit of showing them you value them.
And boy did they get to bragging….
Also, your neighbors are a captive audience have you gotten them in the door?
There are some familiar faces but some fun surprises too!
Styles so streamlined, you can't even tell how high-tech they are.
We spend nearly a third of our life sleeping, which makes getting quality sleep as essential as a healthy diet and regular exercise.
CTAs are probably the most important part of your marketing or campaign strategy.
And heavy on the cat eyes.
Tech gets its moment in the ... suns.
He also knows there is no better way to unwind than with family time and a little wine.
Like some fun accessories for everyone else.
Including the high-tech glaucoma-detecting AI of the future.
They left managed care and went to private pay.
Lots of brand name variety.
Plus, sometimes letting your business go to the dogs is a good thing.
Few doctors understand that the day you open is the day you start planning to sell.
...on the 'Failure' issue
Also how to deal with (or with being) a helicopter manager.
As with the beeper, the medical industry seems to be a stalwart holdout for this old school piece of equipment.
And no time like the present for a little spring cleaning.
This Fort Worth, TX practice reinvented itself into a boutique optical with high tech examinations.
They were burned to the ground in last year’s wildfires. Six months later, they’re thriving.
6 experts explain how to win them over early.
They spent most of the all-expenses-paid trip in the hotel bar.
To navigate your own future, you need to look below the surface.
But lo the patient who dares to no show!
This practice does. How can it get back on track?
Being served here ‘is like meeting a friend in a coffee shop.’
Our eyes look, but our brain sees and sometimes for kids there is a disconnect between the two.
Was it the sale with the biggest price tag or where you overcame the most objections? No and no.
Go back to the future with May's latest releases.
All jokes aside, these 9 styles offer little kids big style.
Maybe next time they should buy them in bulk.
And smart ways to get their parents on board.
Plus, how to get that chatty, great employee to actually close the sale.
Even when they didn't work out as planned.
Like the comprehensive book on 'Natural Eye Care' and a reminder for patients that ECPs perform more than just eye exams.
Including an ECP customizable eyeglass builder for patients to build their own frames and lens combos.
Spring is near and sun sales are picking up.
They say that starting is the hardest part. If that is true, then these ECPs—whom we asked to share their businesses’ origin stories while they are...
'Squeeze, Release, Repeat.' Don't worry, it's doctor approved!
Here's how their relationships work.
It's a psychological phenomenon that could help you close more sales.
Helping kids see has never been easier.
“Happy to be back!”
More education, earlier ownership and trusting your gut more were all pretty popular.
Studies show it can cure many chronic pain and anxiety conditions ... even treat glaucoma!
And congrats to those who have never received one!
Because they believe frames are ‘art worn on the face.’
A seasonal slowdown is often imminent for many of you, here are some business project suggestions to fill the time.
And don't forget it's a month devoted to healthy vision.
It's nothing more than feedback to improve.
Because you can't have success without failure.
Noteworthy ways some ECPs have found to move their moldiest inventory.
But each and every one of you said it taught you something valuable.
Learn 27 ways to make the most of failure.
Should the optician/owner pursue their non-compete?
Don't miss these blooming colors!
Plus two FREE guides to help you stay up-to-date with your trends and branding.
The latest models available and smart ways to use the latest technology.
"Articles all hit home!"
Unsurprisingly, sun sales were soft.
Most even give back while being kind to the Earth.
Like how to get FREE Downloadable white papers on myopia from the International Myopia Institute.
Same sound success for staying top of mind.
Plus who doesn't like a party? Especially when the 'gifts' are positive reviews for you business.
If it's not a muscle car that goes fast, he's not interested.
And the OD suffered a finger in an unexpected place.
When her hometown’s original fire hall went on the market, she knew it was time to open a business.
Especially when they insist on having their frames adjusted to line up with their eyebrows.
Offering glasses just wasn’t enough.
It's just making us sick.
And their patients appreciate the human touch.
Failure only happens if you give up.
Also, how to structure their compensation to remain competitive.
It's a month devoted to administrators and women and we have some ideas to help you celebrate.
Along with an inspiring tale of overcoming adversity.
It happened to this doc. See how he reacted.
Luckily we provide a few hacks to make managing your business a little easier. We can all use all the help we can get.
Sometimes you just need to make serendipity happen.
Sounds simple, but many don't do it when trying to sell eyewear.
And how they persuaded their team to embrace a new mindset.
But many of you just have no interest in them.
Color and style are also invited to the party.
From glamorous to utilitarian, we have all the bases covered.
Time tested and still keepers after all these years.
Why tell patients the lenses benefits when several companies now allow you to show them.
Great read. Keep up the good work. — Steven Gouveia, Target Optical, Seekonk, MA When will our schedule get busy again? It’s been the weirdest winter...
Unless it’s true, it might be a criminal offense in your state.
9 frames with real staying power.
Loyal customers — not the ones who choose you because you’re the closest optical, or in the building they work in; we mean the ones who...
Don't miss: Transitions Innovation Award winners and some great shareable content.
How did your frames stack up?
Plus spring allergy season is nigh and we see a marketing opportunity.
Like an inexpensive way to tell your customers about what's new.
Her North Dakota practice created a more modern look than clients were used to.
Don't miss these important dates.
'Nike frames to teen boys.'
Plus tips for making the most of the upcoming Vision Expo.
Bond 07 by Selima is a magnet for eyewear fanatics.
The patient wants his glasses and exam refunded.
She is the @Momtometrist who finds sanity in the mundane.
Channel that sort of excitement every Monday with your own Monday Morning Mission Statement.
It's all about hitting them in the feels.
Relax, it's not happening ... yet. But there is a lot we could learn from the company's use of behavioral data.
Burnout. According to retail consultant Vince Rath, it starts “when we experience the world in a way that doesn’t align with our expectations,” leaving us feeling...
Visions Extraordinary Eyewear frederick, md WITH 60 YEARS of experience between them, Meline Baron and Phil Bromwell of Visions Extraordinary Eyewear know a thing or two...
Here are 4 pro tips to keep you on track even when you're away.
This patient-appreciation event made for a great business-building tool.
Remember: your convenience is never as important as investing personally in relationships.
No. 1 on the most-despised list: cleaning.
Practice introduction videos have multiple benefits, and these days they’re a cinch to produce.
It gives you both a break.
Curiously weak lashes!
And she has the wardrobe to prove it.
We all get out of alignment from time to time, but you don’t have to stay that way.
From hearts to octagons to triangles, these shape shifters shine.
While reducing turnaround time and errors for happier patients.
Behavioral researcher and author Alfie Kohn likes to tell a joke that many small business owners can no doubt relate to: An elderly man who lives...
Not to mention a Social Media Content Calendar to help jump start your marketing efforts.
Loving the love from you readers!
See the latest eyewear in skin-tone colors.
Transparency, Lace and Cut Outs for the win.
It seems like a small step, but it can have a big impact.
But the 27 percent who have would do it again.
But always bring donuts if you're running late.
An order is canceled after the insurance company steals the work. How must the office react?
Getting a head start on what could be a volatile year, and more advice for February.
Also, Levi's for eyes and three very special women.
Check out the products that have been flying off the racks.
Several ways to explain HD lenses to clients.
For these businesses, delicious tastes and smells are a selling point.
Catch some of the most notable new tortoise styles.
This isn't Walmart.
Also a day dedicated to doing just one thing.
At a one-man Chicago optical, Coyote DeGroot has crafted a brand that’s clear, austere and just a little luxurious: Lab Rabbit Optics.
And other tips for getting your inventory in top shape for Vision Expo.
"I plow your driveway when it snows; you serve my family's eye needs."
Get rid of that hairy arm!
Frame companies partner with lens manufacturers to offer combined product.
Online eyewear sales will only ever get so much of our business.
Even if you’re an individual, group health insurance may be best for your business.
Lights off just isn’t enough for some people.
But in 2019 I am ditching resolutions for goals and making my dream board my reality.
A Texas OD’s study group helps eyecare business owners ‘get outside the bubble of their own practice.’
But be sure to say it with a smile. On second thought, just don't say it.
Plus 6 of the newest products on the market.
Do you ever close your practice for an extended period of time during the year?
Here's how to explain the "intermediate area".
How do you regain your momentum?
The customer asked her, "Will you have my baby?" But it's definitely not what you think.
Repeat after me: "Every customer who walks through my door is a VIP".
What's new in 2019.
A host of cool touches combine to create the perfect frame-selection setting at this Los Angeles-area practice.
A member of Facebook’s Small Business Council shares 4 key ways.
We always love to hear from you!
At Great Spectacles in Stockton, CA, Lynda Winter’s eye for quality and cozy brand of elegance make for a perfect fit.
But make it fashion … and marketing!
Just like Robert Bell.
Three examples of when and how you should go on the offensive.
One of the trends that has defined the eyecare industry in recent years has been a shift in visioncare costs away from employer toward the individual,...
Don't miss these cool new products.
Give one of the hacks below a try to increase both your energy and focus in the A.M.
She has lots of ways to de-stress.
Take a look at these new releases.
Why don’t you hold your opinions first and ask theirs?
