“Interviews are a two-way process”

Can you tell OT a little bit about Evans & Hughes Opticians?

Evans & Hughes Opticians is a well-established group of four busy independent practices in market towns across west Wales. Our practices have participated in several hospital pilots throughout the years, and are involved with optometry on both a local and national level, participating in the Local Health Board cluster, the Regional Optical Committee, and the Welsh Optical Committee.

What is the one piece of advice that you would give to someone who wanted to work for Evans & Hughes Opticians?

Look after your patients as if they were your own family and you can’t go wrong.

When you are shortlisting candidates, what is the very first thing that you look for?

We always try our best to maintain the highest clinical standards. Optometrists are upskilling all across Wales, and one of the first things I would look towards is a candidate that has done any higher qualifications or would be interested in doing so, as we would fully support this.

How important is the cover letter in applications that you receive?

Most optometry CVs can read very similarly. The cover letter is your chance to draw our attention to you and highlight what makes you tick.

What is the biggest mistake that someone can make in an interview for Evans & Hughes Opticians?

Not being yourself. We tend to have a very relaxed approach towards interviewing and always find you can get a feel for each other by doing it this way. Remember interviews are a two-way process, and it’s important to ask questions to ensure we are the right fit for you.

One of the first things I would look towards is a candidate that has done any higher qualifications or would be interested in doing so, as we would fully support this

How do you go about ensuring fairness and equality in your hiring process? Do you have specific programmes in place to ensure that?

At Evans & Hughes Opticians we have a diverse and dynamic team focussed on delivering quality service. The interviewing process is always done by myself and fellow director. We shortlist candidates ourselves and do so in an impartial and transparent manner.

A new employee is preparing for their first week at Evans & Hughes Opticians. What tip would you give them to be successful?

Have an open mind towards learning and be prepared to muck in. Teamwork is essential – we all work as one big team. If you can work effectively within a team, we are sure you will have a rewarding and successful career with us.