Optometry Victoria South Australia (OV/SA) has launched a “content-rich resource” with “thorough guidance and tips for effective recruitment strategies”.
The recruitment resource was developed in response to member feedback highlighting the challenges faced in recruiting front of house staff within the current job market, which has been exacerbated by COVID-19-related factors resulting in workforce shortages.
The survey revealed that staffing challenges were persistent, particularly when recruiting for front of house staff
Last year, OV/SA conducted a comprehensive survey among its members to assess the extent of the issue and help determine the association’s role and capacity in finding solutions. The survey revealed that staffing challenges were persistent, particularly when recruiting for front of house staff.
Ilsa Hampton, CEO of OV/SA said, “We know that these roles are critical to the success of a practice, and that there are challenges in finding the right people for these positions. We also recognise that the term ‘retail’ doesn’t cut it in reflecting the important work that front of house staff do in our practices.”
The new resource contains insights on targeted recruitment efforts, onboarding and managing staff, and using language that better reflects the nature of front of house roles. It also addresses how business owners can leverage potential government grants to support recruitment, establish direct contacts with important stakeholders and provide detailed direction for implementation.
The challenge of recruitment within the optometry sector is further corroborated by the recent creation of ProVision’s Optometry Recruitment Kit.
Ms Hampton said OVSA’s resource complements a kit released by ProVision.
“By utilising OV/SA’s resource in conjunction with Provision’s Kit, members will be well equipped to build skilled and sustainable teams, fostering environments that attract and retain competent front of house staff, ultimately driving enhanced operations and patient experiences.
“Front of house staff make a vital contribution to community eye health as the first port of call for patients, supporting them to access the help they need before and after their optometry appointment. Shortages of these staff make some practices question their viability.
“Through the development of these resources, we are committed to working closely with our members and relevant stakeholders to explore innovative approaches and solutions that will help alleviate this pressing issue, including engaging potential employees in the idea that they are making a valuable contribution to quality of life within the community.”
