Dispensing Truth: From Apprenticeships to Autonomy

This podcast episode features an inspiring and candid conversation between Garry Kousoulou FBDO and dispensing optician. Sarita Harrar, FBDO, who has shared her journey through the optical industry since 1999. The discussion dives deep into the "soft skills" that set the top 1% of practitioners apart, focusing on the power of human connection, community, and the courage to leave toxic environments to find professional autonomy.In this episode, Garry sits down with Sunita, a dispensing optician who has navigated everything from high-street multiples to innovative kiosks. They explore why the best clinical outcomes often start with a simple conversation and why the industry needs to return to the basics of patient care. From Sunita’s "accidental" start in optics to her upcoming venture into the world of fitness apparel, this episode is a masterclass in building rapport and staying authentic in a clinical world.Sunita’s insights highlight her unique approach to patient care and her resilient professional philosophy:On her career start: "A-levels, being of Indian background, parents were like... you've got these careers that are going to be amazing for you, like the usual doctor, solicitor, accountant... I fell into optics; it was clearing, but it worked for me."On the "secret" to her success: "People, like genuinely, without sounding cliché, just the people around me... I ask questions; I genuinely do, about their lifestyle as well, but I make that time."On the community feel at the kiosk: "What we created there... is that community feel. That day when you came, there were three guys that day and they exchanged numbers. They didn't even know each other at the beginning."On recognizing patient needs instantly: "I could see the inflammation on their eyelids when they'd come to the kiosk... Honestly, even without anything, you could just see the inflammation on their lids."On leaving a toxic workplace: "I realized that I was posting less on LinkedIn... the enthusiasm, the passion, just went from my role. I just decided I'm just going to leave, I'll go to locuming or something else will come up."On the power of a simple introduction: "I actually always ask for their name as well, and I introduce myself... I think that just helps; it just connects you with that person."On why she loves locuming: "I love it... I can't even explain the buzz from going into a place you don't know, get to know the system, get to know them, and it’s a whole new bunch of people that you get to know."?Podcast Description: The Heart of the DispenseKey Quotes from SunitaFind our website /https://lovingsocialmedia.com/social-media-marketing-for-opticians-2/