Kara Steele, ABOC
Plymouth,IN
Summary
Accomplished Optical Manager with a stellar reputation of enhancing customer satisfaction and team performance. As an reliable expert in optical knowledge and customer service, I lead a team that continually improves visual merchandising and capture rates. My leadership boosts both workplace satisfaction and customer loyalty. I am detail oriented and dedicated with a background hiring, guiding and supervising staff. I have developed a positive relationship with many patients and customers over time which has contributed to measurable growth at our office.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Optical Manager
Dr. Allison Garmon, OD
01.2019 - 07.2025
- Supervised and managed opticians using feedback, constructive conversations and leading daily activities on sales floor.
- Interacted with customers to help determine or suggest best products to meet eye wear needs and achieve desired look.
- Boosted team engagement and workplace satisfaction using managerial and motivational skills.
- Explained prescriptions, optical terminology and products to customers.
- Managed and trained a team of opticians, ensuring high levels of product knowledge and customer service skills.
- Optimized store layout for improved visual merchandising, leading to increased foot traffic and higher sales conversion rates.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations for staff members, fostering professional growth and development within the team.
- Ensured compliance with industry regulations, maintaining accurate records and documentation as required.
- Enhanced patient experience by offering comprehensive frame styling consultations tailored to individual needs and preferences.
- Recorded measurements, adjusted eye wear, and made changes based on customer feedback.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and advancements in eyewear technology.
- Improved customer satisfaction by providing personalized optical solutions and high-quality customer service.
- Adjusted and repaired new and previously purchased frames to satisfy customer demands.
Optician
Dr. Jerry Kralovansky
10.2017 - 12.2018
- Provided exceptional customer service by attentively listening to patient concerns and addressing them promptly.
- Troubleshot issues with prescription eyewear, offering swift resolution to maintain customer satisfaction levels.
- Filed claims with vision and medical insurance companies to garner payment for optical services.
- Aided patients in selection of flattering eyeglass frames appropriate for prescription and style preferences.
- Verified and updated patient records promptly to guarantee accurate prescription information.
- Increased sales by effectively communicating the benefits of various lens coatings, materials, and frames to customers.
- Enhanced patient understanding of vision care options through comprehensive explanations of insurance benefits and coverage.
- Contacted patients when eyeglasses or contact lenses arrived in store and assisted with final fitting.
- Educated patients on proper use, care and maintenance of eyeglasses and contact lenses.
- Conducted thorough frame adjustments to ensure optimal comfort, fit, and functionality for each customer.
- Measured patients' faces for bridge, eye size, and temple length to select comfortable frames.
- Maintained a clean and organized store environment, ensuring optimal product display and easy access for customers.
- Assisted patients with inserting, removing, and caring for contact lenses through hands-on demonstrations and clear instructions.
- Suggested optional items such as lens coatings and lightweight lenses to improve patient experience with eyeglasses.
- Set up attractive displays, shared current promotions, and offered excellent customer service to increase satisfaction.
- Adjusted and repaired new and previously purchased frames to satisfy customer demands.
- Aided in selection of eyeglass frames based on customer preferences.
Optometric Technician
C.R. Lait Optical & L.W. Vision Care
11.2011 - 04.2015
- Input patient information and exam findings into electronic medical records system to facilitate accurate record-keeping.
- Assisted with insurance questions, eligibility, and prior authorizations of medications and glasses.
- Managed administrative duties with phone reception, appointment scheduling and payment processing.
- Conducted pretest procedures to gather data before exam and make eye appointments more efficient and productive.
- Maintained clean and organized examination rooms, adhering to strict sanitation standards for optimal patient safety.
- Provided exceptional customer service, addressing patient inquiries professionally and courteously both in-person and over the phone.
- Coordinated patient scheduling, monitored patient flow throughout office and properly communicated delays.
- Facilitated smooth communication between patients and optometrists, acting as a liaison for any concerns or questions.
- Instructed patients on contact lens insertion and removal and lens care guidelines.
- Acquainted patients with procedures and explained purpose of testing to establish consent.
- Contributed to a positive work environment by actively participating in team meetings and offering constructive feedback for continuous improvement.
- Performed ancillary testing when ordered by optometrist and thoroughly explained procedures to patients.
- Conducted detailed patient history interviews to enhance accuracy of diagnosis and treatment plans.
- Participated in professional development workshops, staying current with latest optometric practices and technologies.
- Gathered patient histories, took measurements and completed diagnostic tests as part of detailed ophthalmic evaluations.
- Worked well with patients, staff, and manufacturer representatives to carry out successful office- and patient-related work each day.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Justice Administration
University of Louisville
Louisville, KY05-2005
Skills
- Optical knowledge
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Customer Service
- Problem-Solving
- Excellent Communication
- Reliability
- Customer Relationship Management
- Product Knowledge
- Professionalism
Plymouth Rotary Club
Club President 2023-2024, 2024-2025
Timeline
Optical Manager
Dr. Allison Garmon, OD
01.2019 - 07.2025
Optician
Dr. Jerry Kralovansky
10.2017 - 12.2018
Optometric Technician
C.R. Lait Optical & L.W. Vision Care
11.2011 - 04.2015
Bachelor of Science - Justice Administration
University of Louisville
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