Optometrist Interview Questions

List of 45 Optometrist Interview Questions & Answers

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1. 1.

   What do you like to do in your free time?

   How to Answer

   The interviewer wants to see what you do as a stress release and what you consider is fun. They are trying to gain more insight into the activities you participate in away from work. It is important in the health profession to make time for yourself and let the work pressures slip away. Be sure that your activities align with the company's values and that they cannot be construed as unethical or immoral, such as visiting strip clubs or bar-hopping.
   
   

    Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "In my free time, I like to spend time outdoors. Working in an office all week makes me long for fresh air. I like all water activities, such as kayaking and snorkeling, and also enjoy mountain biking, trail running, and camping with my family. During inclement weather, I play games with my kids and have recently started painting with watercolors. I find it's a nice balance to reduce stress."

2. 2.

   What do you know about our company?

   How to Answer

   Before any job interview, it is essential to do your research and learn everything about the company you are interviewing with. The internet has many resources such as LinkedIn, the company's website and social media pages, and online reviews. You can also visit the company and talk to other employees to get a feel of what it would be like working for their company. The interviewer wants to see that you have done your research and have a genuine interest in the company. Suppose you have an obscure piece of information about the company, even better. It shows your motivation to discover everything you can about their company.
   
   

    Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I know that your company was started in 2008 by Dr. Moreland, and you have recently expanded to another location, which makes a total of three offices serving the area. The three locations have nine Optometrists, one of whom is retiring after 30 years, and 13 support staff. Your optometry group has 5-star ratings in all online reviews and recently won 'The Best of the Best' award for the top optometry group in the area. I like how you have a virtual tour of the office, so patients have already had a tour of the office before their first visit. I have been told by one of your receptionists that having the virtual tour makes patients feel more comfortable when coming into the office their first time."

3. 3.

   Describe how you would handle a situation if you were required to finish multiple tasks by the end of the day, and there was no conceivable way that you could finish them.

   How to Answer

   The interviewer is looking to see how you handle pressure and what type of organizational and prioritization skills you may have. They also want to hear if you take on all work yourself or are comfortable delegating certain tasks to others. It is important as an Optometrist to be organized and calm under pressure while directing others to achieve specific tasks.
   
   

    Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I work best when I am organized and have a plan to tackle multiple tasks that need to be done. I like making lists and prioritize the most important tasks first. I have no problem delegating certain tasks to my staff and staying late to finish my list if needed. If there were no conceivable way that all the tasks could be completed by myself and my staff, I would add whatever was unfinished to tomorrow's list."

4. 4.

   Describe the most difficult scheduling problem you have faced.

   How to Answer

   Optometry offices can encounter scheduling problems when patients show up late, an exam goes longer if a problem is encountered, a receptionist calls in sick, or you have an emergency patient. The interviewer wants to see your problem-solving skills and how you can keep the office running smoothly if there is a workflow issue. Describe the most difficult scheduling problem you have faced, and explain how you rectified the situation.
   
   

    Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "The most difficult scheduling problem I have faced is when I hired a new receptionist. She was trained to schedule patients for an eye exam every 30 minutes, with one or two short visits scheduled in the same time slot. Those short visits were for a contact lens follow-up or something similar. The receptionist did not understand a short visit and scheduled patients who had more complex issues and needed more time with me in the same period as an eye exam. It backed up our schedule, and patients waited for 20 to 30 minutes and became very upset. At the end of the day, I spoke with the receptionist and discovered the problem. We had to rearrange the schedule and call patients to reschedule, but it did not interrupt the workflow after the problem was discovered."

5. 5.

   Why optometry vs. another health field?

   How to Answer

   The interviewer is interested in why you chose optometry instead of another medical profession. Describe what motivated you to become an optometrist and explain how you came to that decision. It could be that you want to make a difference in a patient's vision, that you are fascinated by eyes and ocular research, or that you want to serve the less privileged by providing vision screenings.
   
   

    Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I chose optometry instead of another medical profession because optometry is a field where I could specifically make a difference in a patient's vision and quality of life. I am fascinated by ocular research and the advancements that have been made over the years."

6. 6.

   Why did you choose to apply with us?

   How to Answer

   Before any job interview, it is essential to do your research and learn everything about the company you are interviewing with. The internet has many resources such as LinkedIn, the company's website and social media pages, and online reviews. You can also visit the company and talk to other employees to get a feel of what it would be like working for their company. Explain why you chose to apply to this company over others. The interviewer wants to see that you have done your research and have a genuine interest in the company.
   
   

    Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I chose to apply to your company because of your dedication to serving underserved communities. I want to work with your company because I have a soft spot in my heart for those who do not have homes and live on the street. I had a two-year period of living in my family's car with my mother when I was younger, and so many kind people helped us. I want to give back to the community, and I feel like your company is the perfect fit to accomplish that."

7. 7.

   How are your decision-making skills?

   How to Answer

   As an Optometrist, it is important to have excellent decision-making skills. You are involved in decisions either independently or in shared care that will have important consequences for your patient's medical care. It is essential that you feel comfortable making decisions that will impact your patient's quality of life.
   
   

    Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I believe I have excellent decision-making skills. It is important for me to develop a plan and communicate with my patient what I believe to be the best treatment for them. It is equally important for the patient to decide what is best for them. I have had to make split-second decisions in emergencies, and the outcome has always been a success. I think that shows that I have excellent decision-making skills."

8. 8.

   Do you have any questions for me?

   How to Answer

   When an interviewer asks if you have any questions, you do not want to reply that you don't, which shows a lack of interest in their company. Respond with a question not covered in the job post or during your interview, such as when they might be filling the position or when you might hear back from them. Or you may have a question about the work hours or another question that was not found when you researched the company.
   
   

    Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I do have a question that has not been covered. When might I hear back from you regarding your decision?"

9. 9.

   How would you define great patient care?

   How to Answer

   Great patient care is essential in the health profession. If you do not provide excellent patient care and customer service, the patient will seek another practitioner and not refer you to others. The interviewer wants to hear what you consider great patient care and if your values align with theirs. Great patient care can include timely access to needed services, incorporating the patient's preferences and treatment priorities, good listening and communication skills, excellent bedside manner, and providing care that is free from harm.
   
   

    Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "There are so many aspects to providing exceptional patient care. I define great patient care as showing respect, listening intently to what the patient and family have to say, clearly communicating what procedures I will perform, providing emotional support, and engaging patients in their treatment plan. The way I look at providing patient care is to treat every patient as to how I would want my loved ones to be treated."

10. 10.

    What do you like least about being an Optometrist?

    How to Answer

    When you answer what you like least about working as an Optometrist, be careful how you word it. You do not want the interviewer to think you do not like your profession, but you want to be truthful. After answering, be sure to add the positives about your profession, which outweigh the aspects you do not enjoy.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "What I like least about being an Optometrist is working with insurance companies. Some companies can be difficult to work with, and paperwork is time-consuming. But, the positive aspects of this profession far outweigh the negatives, so I do not let the insurance issues take away from the enjoyment of my job. When a patient thanks me for helping correct their vision, that makes it worth the time I spend working with the insurance companies."

11. 11.

    Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

    How to Answer

    This question is asked so the interviewer can gain insight into your career goals and how they align with the company you are interviewing with. They want to see if you are willing to grow within their organization and dedicate the next ten years to the company. Showing the interviewer that you are willing to grow within the company may set you apart from other Optometrist candidates. Refrain from answering with personal goals that do not apply to the Optometrist position.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "In ten years, I see myself working with your organization as a senior Optometrist. I see myself managing the optometry office and overseeing the office staff and assistants to ensure that all patients are receiving the best possible care."

12. 12.

    How would your former employer describe you?

    How to Answer

    Interviewers can call your former employer for a reference, but they want to hear in your words how you think they would describe you. Highlight the personality traits you feel most stood out to your former employer. If you have a letter of recommendation from them, use words they used in the letter to describe you. If the interviewer allows you to provide them with letters of recommendation, this is an excellent time to give them a copy.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I have letters of recommendation from my former employers if you would like a copy. My last employer described me as enthusiastic and energetic with a strong work ethic. She said that I am dependable, honest and that I have excellent patient skills."

13. 13.

    Do you manage your time well?

    How to Answer

    The interviewer wants to see that you manage and prioritize your time wisely. They are looking to hear about your time-management and organizational skills to keep the workflow running smoothly. The interviewer wants to know that there will not be complaints from patients waiting for an extended period to be seen and that you can run the office efficiently and effectively.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I do manage my time well. Ever since I started college, I have been very organized and plan every day in advance. I have developed time-saving strategies that keep the workflow running smoothly, decreasing stress on my staff and patients. I make lists and prioritize my tasks which allows me to stay ahead of schedule."

14. 14.

    Describe any volunteer experience you have had.

    How to Answer

    Describe any volunteer experience you have had, whether in the optometry field or with a nonprofit organization. Having volunteer experience shows that you have a personal commitment to make an impact on other's lives, which is a great quality to have. It also fills in gaps on your resume or CV and shows that you care about your community.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I have quite a bit of volunteer experience. Since I was a teenager, I have volunteered my time at a retirement home every Saturday, where I talk with the residents and play games with them. I have also volunteered as an undergraduate student, working as a health and medicine volunteer at a community clinic. Now that I am an Optometrist, I volunteer twice a month at a free clinic performing eye exams on those who are uninsured."

15. 15.

    Why did you choose to pursue a career as an Optometrist?

    How to Answer

    The interviewer is looking to see what motivated you to become an Optometrist. It might be that you had eye problems as a child and grew up wanting to help others as your Optometrist helped you. Or, you may have a friend, mentor, or family member that encouraged you to pursue a profession in optometry. Tell your story about why you chose a career in optometry.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I chose a career in optometry because I have a brother who is partially blind. I would go to my brother's optometry appointments during my childhood, and the Optometrist and Optician were very patient and explained everything they were doing to my brother. I became fascinated with diagnostic machines and the improvements in technology over the years. I decided I wanted to become an Optometrist to help others with their eyesight, which is such an important part of our senses."

16. 16.

    What do you think optometry's scope will be in the next 15-20 years?

    How to Answer

    The scope of optometry outlines what Optometrists can legally do based on their education and the state where they work. When answering this question, describe how you believe the scope of optometry will change in the next 15-20 years, using the state where you are applying as an example or across the United States as a whole. The interviewer wants to see if you understand what your scope of practice is. If you do not understand your scope of practice, you could be a liability to the company.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I believe that the scope of practice for optometry in the next 15-20 years will include an increased number of procedures we can perform, increased surgical authority in more US states, and an increase in the types of medications we can administer. As more people are aging, I believe there will be greater demand for eye care, and I think Optometrists will be given more leeway to do the job we were taught how to do."

17. 17.

    What is your greatest strength?

    How to Answer

    This is a common interview question because the interviewer wants to hear what you feel is your strongest quality. Choose a strength that is relevant to the position, and highlight why you believe it is your greatest strength. Provide examples of how this strength has been used in the past, and describe the results you have achieved with this strength. Common strengths could include communication, leadership, work ethic, patience, attention to detail, and listening skills.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "My greatest strength is my work ethic. From a young age, I was taught how to work hard to accomplish my goals. I worked two jobs while an undergraduate student and graduated at the top of my class with honors. I get to work early and leave late if I have unfinished business, and I am focused and organized. I am always on call for my patients and treat everyone with professionalism and respect."

18. 18.

    Tell me about your schooling experience.

    How to Answer

    Interviewers ask about your educational background to determine how your education has prepared you for the Optometrist position. They also want to see if your schooling will help you fit into the organization's culture and work environment. You can include the formal and continuing education you have done throughout your career.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "After graduating high school, I received my bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences from Stanford University. I then passed the Optometry Admission Test and was accepted into the Doctor of Optometry program at the Berkeley School of Optometry, where I received my Doctor of Optometry degree."

19. 19.

    How quickly do you make decisions? Give an example.

    How to Answer

    Quick decision-making skills are a good quality to have as an Optometrist. However, not all decisions need to be made quickly when regarding a patient's health. Some decisions need to be researched and well-thought-out. Since the interviewer asked how quickly you make decisions, they most likely want to hear an example when you had to make a quick decision. Give an example of one such time.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I can make decisions quickly when it is warranted. I like to evaluate how a decision I make will impact the patient, so I may take a little longer to decide based on if research is needed or if I need to consult with a colleague. An example of my quick decision-making skills is when I performed an eye exam on a pediatric patient who had a seizure. I had administered cycloplegic eye drops, and several minutes later, they started convulsing. I had my staff call 911, and we started flushing the patient's eyes. My staff tried removing the patient's parents from the room, but I allowed them to stay to explain what we were doing to their child. The family thanked me later for letting them stay and be a part of their child's treatment."

20. 20.

    What impact did you have in your last job?

    How to Answer

    Optometrists can have a major impact on patient's lives, can impact an employee or student Optometrist, or improve the morale and reputation of the office. Interviewers want to hear if your definition of impact aligns with their company's culture and vision. Give an example from your last job of a particular experience you had where your actions made an impact.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I feel the biggest impact I had in my last job was detecting health problems in my patients before they knew they had a condition. For example, I was performing an eye exam and saw signs of possible diabetes. I asked my patient how long they had diabetes, and they said they were unaware they had the disease. I recommended they schedule an appointment with their general practitioner, and they were diagnosed with diabetes. Due to early recognition, lifestyle changes, and medication, the patient was able to take control of their diabetes before it became a bigger issue."

21. 21.

    What kind have goals have you set for yourself with this occupation?

    How to Answer

    Goal setting is an important quality to have, no matter what profession you are in. The interviewer wants to see how motivated you are to succeed professionally and plan to achieve your goals. You can talk about your short-term and long-term goals in your practice. Describe what your goals are and how you plan to achieve them. The best Optometrists are those who never stop growing and improving patient care.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "My five-year goals are to revamp my marketing strategies and improve my social media outreach. I also want to create a patient recall strategy to bring in more patients. My ten-year goals are to keep improving on my marketing and patient recall while improving new patient growth. Using my five-year goals as a benchmark, I want to improve and expand beyond those numbers. By the time I reach my ten-year goals, I want to decrease the total patient flow time, so I am getting patients through their exams quicker while offering the same exceptional service."

22. 22.

    Why are you the best candidate for us?

    How to Answer

    Interviewers ask this question because they want to hear what you bring to the table and how you can improve their company or solve a problem. Before your interview, research the company's mission statement and read the job description very carefully. Highlight specific qualities in your personality or a skill set that makes you the best candidate for the position. When you explain why you are the best candidate for them, be sure to highlight what they are looking for in a candidate and that your views align with the company's mission and values.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I am the best candidate for your company because I have 15 years of experience as an Optometrist. I am up-to-date on the latest technology and am equipped with relevant skills for this position. I am highly motivated, and my enthusiasm motivates my team to provide excellent customer service to our patients. In my last position, the community recognized my team and me as one of the top five optometry groups in a large metropolitan area. It is not just my background and experience that make me the best candidate for your company, but also my excellent leadership, management, and communication skills. My patients have already told me that they would follow me to another company to continue working with me."

23. 23.

    What is your greatest weakness? What are you doing to improve it?

    How to Answer

    When answering an interview question about your greatest weakness, you always want to choose a weakness that will not prevent you from being chosen for the position but is relevant to optometry. You want to answer honestly, but choose a weakness that you have improved upon or are improving on. Give an example of what you identify as a weakness and explain the steps you have taken to make that weakness a strength. Always end with how the weakness turned into something positive.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "My greatest weakness is being a perfectionist. I want all of my patients to have the best treatment possible. I feel let down and can be hard on myself if a prescribed treatment is not as effective as planned. It does not happen often, but the few times it has, I was really discouraged and wondered what I could have done differently. However, I have come to realize that I am still treating my patients the best I can and that some things are out of my control even when I have done my best."

24. 24.

    Are you efficient with your time?

    How to Answer

    The interviewer is looking to hear about your time-management and organizational skills and that you prioritize your time wisely. Optometrists have a busy schedule and need to keep the workflow running smoothly. The interviewer wants to know that there will not be complaints from patients waiting for an extended period to be seen and that you can run the office efficiently and effectively.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I am extremely efficient with my time. I have an effective schedule that keeps the workflow running smoothly while decreasing the patient's wait time. I have an online planner that I use to prioritize other tasks that need to be done and delegate specific jobs to my staff."

25. 25.

    How do you handle stressful situations?

    How to Answer

    Optometrists must handle stressful situations while remaining calm, which will decrease stress in their patients and staff. Interviewers ask this behavioral question to see how you handle various stressful situations while at work and how you relieve stress. Give an example of a stressful situation and how you worked through it.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "Working in a busy practice, the work schedule can be quite stressful with back-to-back patients and the occasional emergency patient. The way I manage stressful workdays is by being organized and planning my day in advance. I leave room in the schedule to accommodate the unknown, which keeps the staff from becoming stressed and my patients from having to wait too long to see me."

26. 26.

    Do you work well under pressure?

    How to Answer

    Working in the medical field, you must be able to handle stress and work well under pressure. This behavioral question is asked to see if you have the skills to do the job you are applying for. Describe how you manage the pressure of the job while keeping calm and in control.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I do work well under pressure. Working as an Optometrist, I often deal with emergency patients and focus on what needs to be done immediately. Over the course of my career, I have found that I actually thrive while working under pressure."

27. 27.

    If you had to tell a patient bad news how would you go about it?

    How to Answer

    The interviewer wants to hear how empathic you are to telling a patient bad news and your steps to deliver that news. How you answer also gives the interviewer insight into your bedside manner and how compassionate you are. Explain how you would tell the patient bad news while refraining from using complex medical jargon while proceeding at the patient's pace. Be sure that you have the patient describe that they understand the news and take time to answer any questions they might have.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "This is one of the hardest duties of being an Optometrist. When I have to deliver bad news to a patient, being honest, empathetic, and direct is the best way to approach this. I arrange for the patient and their family to meet with me in my office if they wish. I schedule sufficient time to deliver the news and answer any questions they might have. After we meet, I tell them that I am sorry, but I have some bad news. I then deliver the news in a way they will understand and wait for them to react. I always proceed at the patient's pace, and when it is the appropriate time, I ask them to tell me their understanding of what I have said. I ask them if they or their family have any questions and answer those questions honestly. At the end of the conversation, I will provide referrals if needed and schedule a follow-up visit. I make sure they know they can call or email me at any time if they have questions or concerns."

28. 28.

    Do you prefer calling a person that schedules an appointment with you a patient or a customer?

    How to Answer

    This is a hot topic for many healthcare professionals. Some think that a person who makes an appointment is always a patient and never a customer, while others think a patient is a customer because they pay money for a service. A good answer to this question is that healthcare professionals see and treat a person, making them a patient. But, they are still customers because they are paying for a service, and you need to provide excellent customer service to keep them happy and continue to use your services.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I prefer calling a person that makes an appointment to see me a patient. When a person comes to see me, they become my patient, but they are also a customer because they are using my services and have the ability to choose between other Optometrists and me. I always do everything I can to provide excellent customer service to my patients so they will continue to use my services."

29. 29.

    Have you ever encountered an ethical dilemma as an Optometrist?

    How to Answer

    Ethical principles in optometry are similar to other healthcare professionals. Such principles strive to do the best for every patient, avoid harm, respect autonomy and justice, and patient confidentiality. Other ethical dilemmas could include dating a staff member or patient or other types of inappropriate relationships. The interviewer is looking to see if you have had a situation as an Optometrist that posed an ethical dilemma. If you have encountered an ethical dilemma, explain how you resolved the situation.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I have encountered an ethical dilemma as an Optometrist. I had a patient who was blind in her left eye after receiving a traumatic brain injury. She told me that her license had been suspended after her injury, but she was scheduled to take a driving exam the following week. She told me she figured out how to pass the DMV vision test and would not tell the employees that she was legally blind in one eye. I told her I did not think that was a wise idea, but she said she was excited to have her freedom back. I felt a moral obligation to report her to the DMV as she would be a danger on the road, but ethically I knew that was wrong, and I would be violating HIPAA. The problem was solved when the patient failed the vision test, and she brought a vision statement form to fill out, where I was able to give my recommendation and restrictions for driving."

30. 30.

    If hired, how do you intend on making a difference with our company?

    How to Answer

    The interviewer wants to hear why you are the best candidate for their company and how hiring you will positively impact and add value to their organization. Read the job description closely to see what qualities and attributes they are looking for in an Optometrist. Most likely, you have researched the company before applying for the position, and you have an idea of their mission statement and what values they hold. Describe your skills and personal qualities and how you will add value to their organization.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "If hired, I will make a difference with your company by bringing my knowledge, skills, work experience, and enthusiasm for this profession. I have former patients who will follow me here, so immediately, there will be an increase in patients and revenue."

31. 31.

    Why should we hire you?

    How to Answer

    The interviewer wants to see that you have the skills and experience to do the job and that you will bring value to the company. Highlight any unique skills that will make you stand out from other candidates, and describe your job ethic and personality traits. This is your chance to brag about yourself humbly and let the interviewer know why you are the best candidate for the job.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "You should hire me because I possess the skills and experience you are looking for. It is not just my 15 years of experience as an Optometrist but my people skills and enthusiasm to help others that I bring to the table. I am empathetic, have excellent listening skills, and communicate very clearly to my staff and patients. I was awarded Optometrist of the Year in my last optometry group, which was voted on by the community of over 300,000 residents. I believe that proves how dedicated I am to the community and this profession."

32. 32.

    Do you have previous experience as an Optometrist?

    How to Answer

    The job announcement should describe the type of experience the company is looking for. Some companies do not require previous experience, while others may require one or more years of experience. If you have made it to the interview, you must have qualified and met their requirements. Describe how many years of experience you have working as an Optometrist and your previous employers. If you do not have experience, describe how enthusiastic you are to gain experience.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I have recently graduated and received my doctor of optometry degree, so I do not have previous experience as an Optometrist. I am excited to have this opportunity to interview with your company and to start my career as an Optometrist."

33. 33.

    What makes you passionate about being an Optometrist?

    How to Answer

    The interviewer is looking to see why you are passionate about being an Optometrist. They want to ensure that you are passionate about your job and will be a good fit for their organization. They do not want to hire an Optometrist who is burned out or does not enjoy their profession.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "What makes me passionate about being an Optometrist is that I get to help people every day I go to work. I can positively impact my patient's lives and help with one of our most important senses, our vision. When I can help a patient see better and look at that smile on their face, it further validates why I became an Optometrist."

34. 34.

    Would you describe yourself as an easygoing person?

    How to Answer

    The interviewer wants to hear how you describe yourself, which gives insight into your personality. Research the company you are interviewing with before your interview, and see what type of Optometrist they are looking for based on their job announcement. If they are looking for a fun and easygoing personality, you would want to describe yourself as easygoing. If they are looking for an Optometrist that is more rigid and professional, you would not want to emphasize being easygoing.
    
    

     Answer Example

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Krista Wenz wrote: "Yes, I would describe myself as an easygoing person. I do not get flustered easily and feel confident and secure as an Optometrist. I believe that patients feel more comfortable and can identify better with someone easygoing."

35. 35.

    Are you able to communicate instructions clearly to a patient?

    How to Answer

    You must be able to communicate instructions clearly to your patients. You will be instructing patients on how to put in and change contact lenses, administer medication to a child or themselves, and give instructions on post-op care. If a patient does not clearly understand your instructions, they can become harmed.
    
    

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Krista Wenz wrote: "Yes, I can clearly communicate instructions to my patients. I take the time to sit down and clearly explain what they need to do. I ask them to describe the instructions I gave them, so I am sure they understand and ask them if they have questions. I am never in a hurry when I give a patient instructions because I want them to understand what I am telling them."

36. 36.

    Are you equipped to answer difficult questions from patients?

    How to Answer

    Patients will often ask difficult questions and may have some unusual questions based on research on the internet. You must be prepared to answer any question a patient might have, or at least know where to find the answer if you do not know. Communication is a top skill to have as an Optometrist, and the interviewer wants to see if you are a good candidate for their organization.
    
    

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I can answer difficult questions from patients. I am an excellent communicator and want my patients to understand what is going on with their health. If I have a question I am unsure how to answer, I tell my patient that they have an excellent question, and I will get back to them with an answer after doing some research and talking with my colleagues."

37. 37.

    What do you like best about being an Optometrist?

    How to Answer

    This is your chance to tell the interviewer what you like the most about working as an Optometrist. Try to keep your answer patient-focused, which shows that you care about your patients. You can mention how you enjoy helping patients see after having cataract surgery and how you are making a difference in the lives of others. If you have a personal story to share, the interviewer will be more likely to remember your answer.
    
    

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Krista Wenz wrote: "What I like most about being an Optometrist is watching a patient's face light up when they can finally see well after a surgical procedure or after being fit with glasses or contacts. As a child, I had vision problems and understand what it is like to see well for the first time. That is the most enjoyable part of my profession."

38. 38.

    Describe a situation when you were able to strengthen a relationship by communicating effectively. What made your communication effective?

    How to Answer

    Effective communication is important in the field of optometry. You will be communicating with patients, family members, colleagues, and your staff. You can describe a time when your communication skills strengthened your relationship with your staff, patient, colleague, or family member. Explain to the interviewer what made your communication effective while demonstrating your ability to listen with respect and empathy.
    
    

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Krista Wenz wrote: "In my last practice, I had hired a new receptionist, and she did really well the first month on the job. Then, I started getting complaints from my patients and other staff that she was rude and dismissive. I had a conversation with her in private, told her about the complaints I was receiving, and asked her if everything was okay. At first, she was dismissive of me and said I was too busy to listen to her problems. I told her that I planned this talk when I did not have patients scheduled and that I had all the time she needed. She broke down crying and said she was diagnosed with cancer a week ago and was afraid to tell me because she thought she would lose her job when she started chemotherapy. I listened to her and was empathetic to her needs. I offered to bring in another receptionist to cover her when she needed to take time off, which she was grateful for. After that, I never had another complaint, and she was one of my best employees."

39. 39.

    What's the most difficult decision you've made in the last two years and how did you come to that decision?

    How to Answer

    Interviewers ask behavioral questions that prompt you to describe past experiences because they want to hear your thought process and see how you use certain skills. These types of questions help interviewers understand how you process and resolve dilemmas. The interviewer wants to see how you approach decisions thoughtfully and logically make choices. When describing a difficult decision you made, be sure to relate it to the position you are applying for.
    
    

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Krista Wenz wrote: "The most difficult decision I had to make in the last two years was firing my pregnant assistant who was a single mother. She was well-liked by her coworkers and patients and was one of the best assistants I had worked with. I had to fire her because she was caught stealing from our patients and a few coworkers, and I could not tolerate that. She cried that she would have no money to support her children and would have trouble finding another job with a criminal history. It was heartbreaking to have to let her go, and I felt sorry for her, but I had to put my patients and staff first."

40. 40.

    Give two examples of things you've done in previous jobs that demonstrate your willingness to work hard.

    How to Answer

    This is another behavioral question where the interviewer can hear evidence of your work ethic and that you are independently motivated to do your best work. It shows that you are willing to make sacrifices and are not afraid of hard work. Give two examples that prove hard work is part of your personality and character.
    
    

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Krista Wenz wrote: " I often stay past working hours to catch up on paperwork or anything else that needs to be done. I am not opposed to working outside office hours. I also give all my patients my email and cell phone if they have any questions or an emergency, and have often opened the office after we have closed to attend to a patient. I think these are great examples of my dedication to this profession and my patients."

41. 41.

    In your opinion, how has optometry improved in the last 20 years?

    How to Answer

    If you research the changes in optometry in the last 20 years, you will see the numerous advancements that have been made in the field. You may have been an Optometrist during these improvements, and if so, you can describe the changes you have seen during your career. If you are a newer Optometrist, you may not have directly witnessed the improvements, but you most likely have learned about them. The interviewer wants to hear that you are aware of the optometry improvements and recognize the changes that have been made.
    
    

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I have only worked as an Optometrist for five years, but I am aware of how many improvements have been made in this field over the last 20 years. There have been major improvements in glasses and lenses, contacts, and refractive surgery. In my opinion, diagnostic tools and technology have been the greatest improvement in the optometry field."

42. 42.

    Describe a time when you have had to make a difficult decision.

    How to Answer

    This question is similar to describing a time you had to make a difficult decision in the past two years but worded slightly differently. It is best to have separate answers to behavioral questions that are similar rather than repeating the same answer. Interviewers ask behavioral questions that prompt you to describe past experiences because they want to hear your thought process and see how you use certain skills. These types of questions help interviewers understand how you process and resolve dilemmas. The interviewer wants to see how you approach decisions thoughtfully and logically make choices. When describing a difficult decision you made, be sure to relate it to the position you are applying for.
    
    

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Krista Wenz wrote: "I have had to make many difficult decisions during my career. One of the most difficult decisions was leaving a job I absolutely loved because the commute was too long and cutting into time with my family. I was hired as an Optometrist in a busy practice right after receiving my Doctor of Optometry degree. The closest job I could find was a 3-hour round-trip commute. It was just my husband and me at the time, and he was supportive of my decision to work far away. Over the years, though, I became a mom and found it was too difficult to spend three additional hours away from my family. So I had to leave the practice once I found a position closer to home."

43. 43.

    What is the difference between a customer and a patient?

    How to Answer

    This is a hot topic for many healthcare professionals. Some think a patient is a patient and never a customer, while others think a patient is a customer because money is made off of them. A good answer to this question is that healthcare professionals see a person,
    making them a patient. But, they are still customers because they are paying for a service, and you need to provide excellent customer service to keep them happy and continue to use your services.
    
    

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Krista Wenz wrote: "The definition of a patient is 'one who suffers.' So, when a person comes to see me, they become my patient, but they are also a customer because they are using my services and have the ability to choose between other Optometrists and me. So, I need to do everything I can to provide excellent customer service to my patients so they will continue to use my services."

44. 44.

    What is an example of an ethical dilemma in optometry?

    How to Answer

    Ethical principles in optometry are similar to other healthcare professionals. Such principles strive to do the best for every patient, avoid harm, respect autonomy and justice, and patient confidentiality. Other ethical dilemmas could include dating a staff member or patient or other types of inappropriate relationships. The interviewer is looking to see if you are aware of ethical principles and what you consider an ethical dilemma.
    
    

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Krista Wenz wrote: "One example of an ethical dilemma that comes to mind regards patient confidentiality. I had a colleague put in an ethical dilemma when a patient told him that he contracted a venereal disease from an affair he was having while he was married. The patient did not tell his wife because he didn't want her to leave him, but my colleague felt the wife needed to know to protect herself. The information the patient told my colleague was confidential, but my colleague felt a duty to inform the wife."

45. 45.

    What are some challenges you were faced with while in school as an undergraduate student?

    How to Answer

    Undergraduate students face many challenges while in school. The most common challenge is the amount of debt undergraduate students incur. Other challenges can be having to work while going to school, family duties, or relationship issues. Describe your personal challenges as an undergraduate student and how you overcame those challenges. The interviewer is looking to see what you view as a challenge and how you persevered.
    
    

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Krista Wenz wrote: "The biggest challenge I faced as an undergraduate student was the amount of debt I was incurring. My wife was also an undergraduate student, and between the two of us, we had an enormous amount of student debt. It wasn't easy during those four years to afford much. We had one car to save on money, so we had to get up early so I could drive my wife to school and make it to my classes on time. And, we both worked part-time, so there was a lot of juggling around to do. But, we stuck with it, both graduated, are paying our debt off, and can finally afford a second car. It was worth the sacrifices we made to be where we are today."