Inside…Orriss and Low Optometrists

How can prospective employees apply for a position at Orriss and Low Optometrists?  

We would always like prospective colleagues to contact us directly as soon as they want to know more. We are happy to receive initial enquiries by any route. A confidential email to [email protected], with a CV attached, is an excellent start. However, a telephone call, an enquiry through our website or even a drop-in visit to the practice are all also welcome. To formally apply, we would expect a full CV, covering letter and references.

What is the internal process after an application is made? 

As a single practice, all applications are seen by myself and treated in strict confidence for as long as necessary. Initially, I would contact the applicant to discuss the role and both our and their expectations.

What is the interview process? 

I would arrange a practice visit to enable the applicant to have a look at all we have to offer. Myself and my partner, Gary Orriss, would then take the time to meet the candidate and talk through their hopes and plans. If things went well, we would suggest a full day of paid locum work so they can see how the staff work and the practice runs. 

What makes a CV stand out?

Well laid out, perfect grammar and spelling, with no gaps in the timeline. Evidence of personal development and professional progression from the basic optometric role.

What are you looking for in a cover letter and why?

Something pertinent to our company and ethos. Evidence of a hunger to learn and a proactive approach is a positive.

"We are happy to receive initial enquiries by any route. A confidential email, with a CV attached, is an excellent start. However, a telephone call, an enquiry through our website or even a drop-in visit to the practice are all also welcome"

Can you tell readers about the full-time vacancy that you currently have for an optometrist? 

We are looking for a practitioner who will work four days a week in our practice which operates between 8am–6pm. They would work between 27 to 36 hours a week, and there are no weekends involved. 

We run 40-minute testing appointments and have fully equipped testing rooms with an Optomap, topographer, Humphrey field analyser and an optical coherence tomography device. We truly believe that through this we are offering our patients the best possible care.

How should a candidate best prepare for an interview?

Be themselves. I do not want to take on someone who has put on their best face and rehearsed for hours for the interviews. I want someone who fits in as they are day-to-day. Yes, smart presentation and a firm handshake is good.

What three interview tips would you give a candidate? 

Do your research via our website and arrive in good time. Plus, decide on why they want to work for us.

What are your interview ‘pet peeves’?

Candidates who forget my name or the business name, and floppy handshakes.

Sum up your ideal candidate in three words…

Honest, proactive, conscientious.

Image credit: Getty