A peek inside... Sutcliffes Opticians and Audiologists

Essa has been a member of Sutcliffes Opticians and Audiologists, in Chorley, Lancashire, part of the Stotts Group, for more than seven years.

She told OT about her love for eyewear styling, and her favourite moments of the practice day.

What is your role?

Eyewear and personal stylist at Sutcliffes Opticians and Audiologists, in Chorley.

What do you recall from your first week in practice?

I remember being a little nervous but super excited too. I trained with Dan Hurst – now my director – in the Urmston practice for two weeks before I joined the Chorley practice. I loved the buzz of working in a new environment, getting thrown in the deep end and learning the Stotts way. It was fabulous getting to know everyone too – the team were absolutely lovely.

How do you see your role in the patient’s journey?

Creating an unforgettable experience throughout the patient journey, from greeting patients on arrival, to helping them find the perfect frames through eyewear styling, to the final fitting appointment and making patients feel absolutely amazing in their new eyewear, all while having fun along the way.

What is one thing you love most about the practice?

Along with the patients and fabulous eyewear we have in practice, I’d definitely say the team. They make it such a fun place to work and we all have such banter together, it creates an amazing atmosphere and I genuinely look forward to coming to work because of it.

What is your favourite moment of the day?

Definitely the eyewear styling consultation. I love offering a fabulous, unique experience that makes patients feel phenomenal in our eyewear. I also love when a patient comes in for their fitting appointment. After getting to know them throughout the patient journey, seeing how happy and joyful they are with their new eyewear is truly a priceless feeling.

I love offering a fabulous, unique experience that makes patients feel phenomenal in our eyewear

What is one lesson you have learnt from someone in your team?

To not take things to heart. I admit I can be a little sensitive and sometimes things can influence my emotions. I’m getting much better though.

If you could have one wish for the practice, what would it be?

To have fewer snacks on-hand in the practice. They are detrimental to my diet!

If you could help your community understand one thing about eye care, what would you say?

Eye care and eyewear do not have to be boring. There are so many gorgeous frames available, and with eyewear styling you can find the right frame for you that can totally transform how you look and feel, boost your confidence, and make you feel amazing.

What is one thing you are excited about?

I’m extremely passionate about eyewear styling and my directors have been incredibly supportive of my career progression. Not only have they sponsored styling courses to develop my knowledge and skills, but have also given me ongoing opportunities to share what I’ve learned with my colleagues. We recently had a team training session and I taught a colour styling workshop which was super fun, and more importantly, the team took lots of new skills away with them too.

How would your practice team describe you?

The Style Queen. I’m so passionate about eyewear styling and fashion, and love having my own unique style. As an accredited personal stylist with The London College of Style, I truly believe what you wear influences how people perceive you. It certainly creates an impression with patients too and uplifts everyone’s spirits, so it’s the fitting title for me.