Your Voice Matters: Participate in Our Survey on Practice Management Systems!

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15 PRACTICE MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE SURVEY

Are you part of a Canadian Optometric practice? Your insights are invaluable! We’re inviting you to participate in a brief survey designed to gather your opinions and experiences with practice management software.

As the backbone of many successful practices, practice management systems play a vital role in streamlining operations, improving patient care, and enhancing overall efficiency. But not all systems are created equal, and we want to learn what works, what doesn’t, and where there’s room for improvement.

This survey includes various usage and attitude questions about practice management software and will take about 5 minutes to complete. Whether you’re a fan of your current system or find yourself wishing for better features, this is your chance to share your perspective and help shape the future of optometric practice tools.

Why Participate?

In addition to making your voice heard, the first 100 qualified respondents will receive a $10 e-gift card as a thank-you for your time and valuable input. (Limitations apply.)

Your responses will be used to better understand the needs of optometric practices across Canada, helping us uncover trends, challenges, and opportunities in practice management software.

How to Get Involved

Participating is simple! Click the link below to access the survey and complete it on your own time. Remember, it takes less than 5 minutes to make an impact and claim your reward if you’re among the first 100 qualifying respondents.

Start the Survey Now!

Your Feedback Drives Innovation

By sharing your experiences, you’re contributing to a broader conversation about the tools and technologies that support optometric practices. Your insights will not only help inform others in the industry but also guide future developments in practice management solutions.

Don’t miss this opportunity to shape the future of your field and earn a small token of appreciation in return.

Thank you for your participation and dedication to improving Canadian Optometry!

 

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Key Tax Deadlines

Finance|Wealth, Tax & Legal Matters

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Tax Season 2025 - Roxanne Arnal

As the 2024 tax season approaches, it’s essential for Canadians to be aware of key dates to ensure a smooth and timely filing process. Here are some important deadlines to keep in mind.

  1. RRSP Contribution Deadline

You have 60 days into the new year to contribute to your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) for the prior tax year. For the 2024 tax year, this deadline is March 3, 2025.

RRSP contributions are one way to lower your current tax liability by deferring the tax on the contributions, and related growth from the corresponding investment, to a future tax year. This tax deferral is particularly beneficial if you anticipate to be in a lower tax bracket when you withdraw from your RRSP or Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF).

You can make these contributions to either your own RRSP or to a Spousal RRSP. Contributions to either account will impact your RRSP contribution room and your current personal tax liability. The use of the Spousal RRSP allows you to income split taxation on withdrawals, especially if you plan to withdraw prior to age 65.

  1. Filing Deadline for Most Canadians

The deadline to file your tax return and pay any balance owing to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is April 30, 2025 for most Canadians. Filing on time helps you avoid late-filing penalties and interest charges, especially if you have amounts owing.

Filing your tax return also helps to ensure that you receive any government benefits due to come to your way.

  1. Self-Employed Individual Filing Deadline

If you or your spouse or common-law partner are self-employed, you have until June 15th of the following year to file your tax returns. For the 2024 tax year, you get a bonus day, June 16, 2025, since June 15 is a Sunday.

Keep in mind however that any balance owing must still be paid by April 30, 2025, to avoid interest charges.

  1. Instalment Payments

If you had to pay more than $3,000* in taxation in either of the prior two calendar year filing periods AND you anticipate that your current tax year will also result in tax owing of more than $3,000*, you will be required to make quarterly instalment payments.

There are three options to calculate the amount per tax instalment needed, but remember that the first instalment for the current tax year is due March 15th, about 6 weeks prior to tax filing deadline. Therefore, it’s important to review your taxation with your accountant early to avoid interest charges and possible penalties.

Remaining installments are due June 15, September 15 and December 15, or the next business day following if it occurs on a Saturday, Sunday or public holiday recognized by the CRA.

*Calculated as the “Net Tax Owing” on your tax return. This amount is $1,800 for residents of Quebec.

  1. FHSA Contributions

Though too late for the 2024 tax year, a contribution to a First Home Savings Account in the current tax year can also decrease your taxable income.

In addition to the current year tax savings, there is no tax applicable to an eligible withdrawal of your contributed amount or the growth of the investment. This is a great account registration to save for your first home for those that qualify.

  1. Trust Income Tax Return (T3)

For trusts, the income tax return and payment are due within 90 days after the trust’s tax year-end. If you think you may be required to file a T3 in a bare trust situation, be sure to confer with your accountant as the penalties can be harsh.

Conclusion

Staying informed about these key tax dates can help you avoid penalties and ensure you receive any benefits or credits you are entitled to.

Having conversations early in the tax filing period with your financial advisor to review the impact of additional RRSP contributions can help mitigate your overall tax bill for the prior year. Understanding when an RRSP contribution makes sense is part of how we empower you to make smart financial decisions that align with your goals today and tomorrow. Contact us at 780-261-3098 or email (Roxanne@C3wealthadvisors.ca) to set up your next conversation.

Roxanne Arnal is a CFP®, former Optometrist, Professional Corporation President, and practice owner. Today she is on a mission to Empower You & Your Wealth with Clarity, Confidence & Control.

These articles are for information purposes only and are not a replacement for personal financial and tax planning. Individual circumstances and needs vary. Tax strategies should also be discussed with your tax accountant and lawyer. Errors and Omissions exempt.

ROXANNE ARNAL,

Optometrist and Certified Financial Planner

Roxanne Arnal graduated from UW School of Optometry in 1995 and is a past-president of the Alberta Association of Optometrists (AAO) and the Canadian Association of Optometry Students (CAOS).  She subsequently built a thriving optometric practice in rural Alberta.

Roxanne took the decision in  2012 to leave optometry and become a financial planning professional.  She now focuses on providing services to Optometrists with a plan to parlay her unique expertise to help optometric practices and their families across the country meet their goals through astute financial planning and decision making.

Roxanne splits EWO podcast hosting duties with Dr. Glen Chiasson.

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Abandoned at the Altar

Real Estate

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ROI Corporation - Abandoned at the altar

Reader Caution – this article is littered with marriage and dating analogies!

We’ve all seen romantic comedy movies with a runaway bride scene. But there have been many runaway grooms as well.

The reality is, when you put a ring on your finger, you are betrothed, and all your eggs are in now in one basket. You book the wedding venue, line up the officiant—whether that’s a priest, rabbi, cleric, or someone else—and then gather all your friends and family for the big day.

You select a banquet facility, spend tens of thousands on catering, beverages, the band, and copious decorations to prepare for the special day.

Average (first) wedding cost today (Canada) is ~$30,000.

And then the bride or groom bolts at the last minute.

To clarify, I’m now inter-changing analogy between business transactions and weddings. Many of our clients come to us after being left at the altar.

It typically starts with someone they know or someone who has approached them privately, telling them beautiful and convincing stories about how they want to acquire the business.

Because there was a casual pre-qualification from a lawyer, accountant, banker, or colleague, the normal cautionary business practices tend to be abandoned in these situations. Your guard is let down momentarily, and you go on the first date with little forethought.

The courtship began prematurely.

Once that bride or groom—otherwise known as the only person at the dance—knows they have your attention, and when their advisors also know that they are your sole option, the process will invariably slow to a grinding halt.

The wedding date gets delayed—many times in most instances.

Then, more questions are asked, questions that weren’t covered at the start.

You soon learn that you jumped too quickly and should have taken more time during the initial phase (the courtship).

It’s usually the third-party advisors slowing the process – they are paid by time and not success.

As the seller, you believe the buyer’s intentions remain legitimate, thus you let the process continue—after all, you haven’t incurred any significant costs at this point.

What’s a minor delay here and there? You’ve been waiting 20 or 30 years for this moment.

Then it happens. The penny drops.

Suddenly, absurd conditions or outright insults—whether intentional or not—start flying, because the buyer and their advisors know they are the only ones you’re dealing with.

I can’t tell you how many times people come to us with their heads hung low, saying, “I should have listened to you. I shouldn’t have put all my eggs in one basket, but I did.”

Thankfully, it didn’t cost them too much.

But what are the costs they managed to avoid? Initially, it may seem like they saved on an appraisal fee or broker commission. And that is not insignificant.

And since the relationship started with incredibly good intentions, which certainly appeared genuine and sincere at the time, the legal fees weren’t too bad.

But now you must start over again. And because the market is more powerful than any one individual can match, you will now incur the normal costs involved with the disposition of a professional practice. The appraisal and brokerage fee plus proper legal and accounting advice.

If you were on a sensitive timeline, you are now in an unbelievably dire situation.

If I am approached by a buyer who impresses me with genuine motives and good intentions, I will enter a discussion with them. It will be investigative in nature, not romantic!

I will also put them on a noticeably short leash.

That means I’ll give them 30-45 days (post-appraisal) before I list with the broker and go to market – and leverage the influence of multiple buyers. The first buyer can stay in the competition but now they have competition!

Please don’t get left at the altar.

It’s very embarrassing to be standing there, all alone, with a ring in your hand with all your friends and family watching.

Jackie Joachim, COO ROI Corp

JACKIE JOACHIM

Jackie has 30 years of experience in the industry as a former banker and now the Chief Operating Officer of ROI Corporation. Please contact her at Jackie.joachim@roicorp.com or 1-844-764-2020.

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Episode 04 – Navigating Residency with Dr. Jenny Lee

Future Focus Podcast, NextGenOD

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NextGenOD podcast

Welcome to this insightful episode of Future Focus, The NextGEN OD, Canada Podcast, where we dive into the often-debated topic of navigating residency in optometry. This episode features a candid conversation with Dr. Jenny Lee, who recently completed a Pediatrics and Vision Therapy residency at the University of Waterloo. Together with your hosts, Dr. Amrit Bilkhu and Alexa Hecht, they explore the journey, challenges, and benefits of taking this specialized path.

Episode Highlights:

  • Why Choose a Residency: Jenny explains her motivation to pursue a residency and how it helped bridge the gap between academic learning and clinical expertise.
  • Evaluating Residency Programs: Tips on selecting the right program based on culture, mentorship, and career goal alignment.
  • Residency vs. Workforce: Jenny discusses the challenges and benefits of doing a residency compared to entering the workforce immediately after graduation.
  • Career Impact: Learn how her residency experience opened doors and shaped her career opportunities in private practice and pediatric vision therapy.
  • Advice for Aspiring Residents: Practical tips on preparing for interviews, networking, and making the most of the residency year.

Listen now to gain valuable insights into whether a residency could be the right path for your optometry career!

Special Guest:

  • Jenny Lee, OD, FAAO
  • Dr. Jenny Lee is a recent graduate of the University of Waterloo’s Pediatrics and Vision Therapy residency program. She earned her FAAO in 2023 and now practices in Vancouver, splitting her time between corporate optometry and a private vision therapy practice. She is passionate about helping students navigate their journey in optometry and welcomes questions via Instagram at @Dr.JennyLee.

Your Hosts:

  • Amrit Bilkhu, OD, FAAO, FOVDR
  • Dr. Amrit Bilkhu graduated from the Illinois College of Optometry in 2019 and completed a Vision Therapy & Rehabilitation residency program at UC Berkeley School of Optometry in 2020. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and the Optometrists in Vision Development and Rehabilitation. Dr. Bilkhu owns her private practice, Northern Sight Optometry, in Vaughan, Ontario. In her spare time, she serves as a board member for Vision Therapy Canada, writes articles for optometry blogs, and shares her knowledge on her professional social media page.
  • Alexa Hecht, OD
  • Dr. Alexa Hecht obtained her Doctor of Optometry from the University of Waterloo in 2021. She currently practices at Bayview Vision in Toronto, Canada, where she enjoys seeing patients of all ages and has a clinical interest in dry eye disease and ocular aesthetics. Dr. Hecht has a significant social media following on Instagram and TikTok, where she aims to educate the public about the importance of eye health and clean beauty habits. She is passionate about inspiring and mentoring the next generation of optometrists.

Future Focus is proudly sponsored by Eye Recommend.

Eye Recommend - Exclusive SponsorEye Recommend is a dynamic network of independent optometrists dedicated to providing personalized, comprehensive eye care. They offer outstanding career opportunities across various optometry specialties, along with signing bonuses, mentorship programs, and access to exclusive world-class events and education. With a vast network of experts and clinics nationwide, they empower optometry students and recent graduates to build successful and fulfilling careers.

Sign up to the NextGEN OD Newsletter to get episode notifications and other updates from NextGEN OD Canada.
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Specsavers Named as One of the Best Places to Work in the World

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Specsavers_WorldsBestWorkplace_2024

Fortune Magazine and Great Place to Work® selected the optical and audiology business from a list of organizations that took part in the Great Place to Work’s employee survey process, with 7.4 million responses received, representing 20 million employees worldwide.

“This is an incredible achievement, and it is a credit to all our colleagues and partners who work hard to make Specsavers such a great place to work. I could not be prouder. Our ranking among so many other brilliant organizations on this list continues to drive our ambition in making life at Specsavers truly special,” says John Perkins, Specsavers CEO.

To be considered for the list, companies must be identified as outstanding global employers with recognition on at least five Best WorkplacesTM lists from across the world in 2023 or early 2024.

Colleagues said the opportunities offered to develop and grow as well as the culture and level of care for employees were the main reasons for rating the business so highly.

 

“We’re very proud to be named as one of the world’s best workplaces,” said Bill Moir, Managing Director, Specsavers Canada. “This global recognition reflects Specsavers’ commitment to putting its people first, which has been the foundation of our successful growth in Canada. People have, and always will be, at the heart of everything we do at Specsavers.”

Specsavers was recognized in Canada’s Best Workplaces™ List for 2024, including additional awards for best workplace in retail/hospitality, for women and for giving back. Since arriving in Canada in late 2021, the company continues its rapid growth across the country, providing career and business ownership opportunities in Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, and British Columbia.

With over 135 locally owned Specsavers locations in Canada, the company employs more than 1,500 people and has more than 300 independent optometrists in its network.

Organizations like Specsavers are assessed on their efforts to create great workplaces and positively impact people and communities across multiple countries around the world.

 

Start your business with the support of Specsavers. Search available locations.

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Tax Tips for Year End…and Beyond

Finance|Wealth, Tax & Legal Matters

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Tax refund strategies

Tax planning is a vital part of managing your financial health, and it doesn’t need to wait until the year-end rush. Incorporating strategic tax-saving measures throughout the year can lead to significant benefits. Here are some practical tips for managing your finances with tax efficiency in mind.

 

  1. Review Your Capital Gains and Losses Strategy
  • Offset Gains with Losses: If you’ve realized capital gains, consider triggering capital losses to offset them. This can help avoid higher tax rates, especially for gains incurred after June 25, 2024, where gains over $250,000 are taxed at a higher 66.7% inclusion rate*.
  • Corporate Impacts: For corporations, managing capital gains* is crucial to avoid surpassing the $50,000 passive income threshold, which can claw back your small business deduction (SBD). Offsetting gains with losses could save up to 12% in taxes on active business income for those in Alberta for example.
  • Carry Forward or Back: Capital losses can be applied to the current year, carried back three years, or carried forward indefinitely.
  • Business Sales: If you’re selling a business, consider spreading the taxable gain over five years using the capital gains reserve, especially if a sale of qualified shares exceeds your Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption (LCGE).

 

  1. Explore Allowable Business Investment Losses (ABILs)

ABILs apply to losses from disposing of shares or debts in a Canadian-controlled private corporation (CCPC). These losses can offset any income type, providing more flexibility than regular capital losses. Ensure the loss meets CRA criteria.

 

  1. Make Tax-Efficient Charitable Donations
  • Donate Appreciated Securities: Donating investments with significant gains allows you to avoid capital gains tax while receiving a tax credit.
  • Corporate Donations: Corporations donating in-kind securities benefit even further. On top of the donation receipt the corporation will receive, 100% of the capital gain gets notated to the capital dividend account (CDA).

 

  1. Optimize Registered Accounts

Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA)

  • Planning a withdrawal? Do it before year-end to restore contribution room on January 1.

First Home Savings Account (FHSA)

  • Open an FHSA before year-end to generate $8,000 of contribution room which can be carried forward a year.
  • Accelerate your home savings by contributing to your FHSA before year end to reduce your 2024 taxable income.

Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP)

  • Maximize the Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG) by contributing at least $2,500 per child. Catch up on unused grant room if available.

 

  1. Plan RRSP Contributions and Withdrawals
  • Contribution Deadline: The RRSP contribution deadline for the 2024 tax year is March 3, 2025.
  • Spousal RRSPs: make contributions before year-end to reduce the time needed to clear income attribution rules on withdrawals.
  • Age Considerations: If you turn 71 this year, ensure you roll your RRSP over to a RRIF prior to year end. Consider making an advanced contribution to your RRSP prior to conversion if you will generate additional room for 2025. Remember, over contributions are subject to penalty, but this overcontribution will only last until January 2025.

 

  1. Manage Non-Deductible Debt

A debt-swap using income-earning investments can help you save money by converting non-deductible interest (eg., on mortgages or consumer debt) to deductible interest.

 

  1. Identify Income-Splitting Opportunities
  • Prescribed Rate Loans: Consider a prescribed-rate loan to a spouse or common-law partner. The 2024 prescribed rate is 5%. Ensure proper documentation and timely interest payments.
  • Second Generation Income: Monitor assets gifted to family members, as income attribution rules don’t apply to second-generation income.

 

  1. Optimize Corporate Ownership Strategies
  • Tax-Efficient Loans: If your corporation provides no or low interest loans to employees or shareholders, the 2024 taxable benefit rate is 5%.
  • Deferred Bonuses: Declaring bonuses in 2024 you can defer payment up to 180 days, permitting a personal tax deferral to 2025.
  • Compensation Mix: Review your mix of salary and dividends. Dividends can be further classified into eligible, ineligible, and capital for tax efficiency.
  • Shareholder Loan Repayments: Repay loans borrowed from your corporation within the two-year window to avoid inclusion in personal income.

 

Final Thoughts

Tax planning isn’t just a year-end activity; it’s a year-round process that integrates your business and personal financial goals. Reviewing these strategies with your financial planner, tax accountant, and lawyer ensures alignment with your unique situation. Small adjustments today can yield significant long-term benefits, so start your planning early and review it often. Contact us at 780-261-3098 or email (Roxanne@C3wealthadvisors.ca) to set up your next conversation.

*note that this tax change has not yet been made into law. The 66.7% inclusion rate also applies to all corporate capital gains and losses as of June 25, 2024.

Roxanne Arnal is a CFP®, former Optometrist, Professional Corporation President, and practice owner. Today she is on a mission to Empower You & Your Wealth with Clarity, Confidence & Control.

These articles are for information purposes only and are not a replacement for personal financial and tax planning. Individual circumstances and needs vary. Tax strategies should also be discussed with your tax accountant and lawyer. Errors and Omissions exempt.

 

ROXANNE ARNAL,

Optometrist and Certified Financial Planner

Roxanne Arnal graduated from UW School of Optometry in 1995 and is a past-president of the Alberta Association of Optometrists (AAO) and the Canadian Association of Optometry Students (CAOS).  She subsequently built a thriving optometric practice in rural Alberta.

Roxanne took the decision in  2012 to leave optometry and become a financial planning professional.  She now focuses on providing services to Optometrists with a plan to parlay her unique expertise to help optometric practices and their families across the country meet their goals through astute financial planning and decision making.

Roxanne splits EWO podcast hosting duties with Dr. Glen Chiasson.

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Waterloo Eye Institute Event Showcases Cutting-Edge CE and Trade Exhibit

Career Options, NextGenOD

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Waterloo Eye Institute

From November 15 to November 17, the Waterloo Eye Institute (WEI) hosted an exceptional event in Markham, Ontario, offering an engaging mix of continuing education (CE) and industry networking opportunities for optometric professionals. Over three days, attendees participated in 20 hours of COPE-accredited CE sessions for optometrists and 6 hours of tailored CE programming for optometric assistants.

The event also included a three-hour trade show on Saturday, featuring more than 30 industry-leading exhibitors showcasing the latest innovations in eye care products and technologies. NextGEN OD Canada Student Ambassadors attended the show

Highlights from the Distinguished Lecture Series

Dr. Etty Bitton: On Friday, Dr. Etty Bitton delivered the prestigious Woodruff Distinguished Lecture, presenting on the differential diagnosis of anterior blepharitis.

A celebrated expert in tear film physiology and dry eye, Dr. Bitton holds a Doctorate in Optometry from the University of Waterloo and a Master’s in Physiological Optics from the Université de Montréal. Currently a full professor and director of the Dry Eye Clinic at the École d’optométrie, she has been a leader in dry eye research and a contributor to global initiatives like TFOS DEWS II. Her presentation was a tribute to Dr. Emerson Woodruff’s legacy, whose contributions helped shape optometry education and research at the University of Waterloo.


Dr. Donald Hood: On Saturday, Dr. Donald Hood took the stage to deliver the 33rd Bobier Distinguished Lecture, titled A Novel Approach to Identifying Glaucoma Based on a Large Real-World OCT Database from Optometry Cases.

Dr. Hood, Professor Emeritus at Columbia University, is a renowned figure in retinal and optic nerve disease research, with nearly 400 publications and numerous accolades, including an honorary degree from SUNY College of Optometry. His lecture honored Dr. Clair Bobier’s pioneering vision for integrating scientific research into optometry education, further solidifying the importance of evidence-based practice in the profession.

Networking and Innovation at the Trade Show

Saturday’s trade show provided a bustling platform for attendees to explore cutting-edge technologies and services from over 30 exhibitors. This interactive session fostered connections between practitioners and industry leaders, further supporting the WEI’s mission of advancing patient care and optometric education.

NextGEN OD Student Ambassadors, Sara Baig and Shreya Jain, supported Clinical & Refractive Optometry during the 3-hour trade show.

Engaging Panel Discussions

The event concluded on Sunday with a dynamic “Rapid Fire Panel Discussion” on advanced scleral imaging and specialty contact lens technology. Moderated by Drs. Chelsea Bray, Shalu Pal, and Vishakha Thakrar, the panel provided practical insights and innovative approaches to enhancing patient outcomes through emerging lens technologies.

Looking Ahead

The success of the WEI’s November event underscores its commitment to fostering collaboration, education, and innovation within the optometric community. With initiatives like these, the WEI continues to pave the way for advancements in vision science and patient care, benefitting practitioners and patients alike across Canada.

 

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Episode 03 – Mentorship for OD Students with Dr. Ritesh Patel

Future Focus Podcast, NextGenOD

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NextGenOD podcast

In this inspiring episode of the NextGEN OD Podcast, hosts Amrit and Alexa sit down with Dr. Ritesh Patel, a Toronto-based optometrist and industry leader, to discuss the transformative power of mentorship and the journey of building a private practice. With an impressive career that spans the U.S. and Canada, Dr. Patel brings invaluable insights for optometry students and new graduates alike.

Key Highlights:

  • The Importance of Mentorship: Dr. Patel emphasizes how mentorship accelerates professional growth by offering guidance, reducing common missteps, and providing a broader perspective on career development.
  • Qualities of a Great Mentor: Practical advice on identifying mentors who align with your values and goals, ensuring the relationship fosters confidence and empathy.
  • Private Practice Insights: Dr. Patel shares his journey of establishing his own practice, overcoming challenges, and creating a welcoming, patient-centered environment that reflects his personal vision.
  • Building Connections: Tips for students and young optometrists on how to seek out mentorship opportunities through networking at events and conferences.
  • The Role of Fun and Authenticity: From giving patients sour keys to playing eclectic music, Dr. Patel highlights the importance of creating a unique and enjoyable experience for both patients and practitioners.
  • Advice for Aspiring Practice Owners: Encouragement for new graduates to embrace imperfection, leverage mentorship, and take gradual steps toward building a successful private practice.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the path from optometry student to thriving professional. Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform to hear Dr. Patel’s full story and practical advice!

Your Hosts:

  • Amrit Bilkhu, OD, FAAO, FOVDR
  • Dr. Amrit Bilkhu graduated from the Illinois College of Optometry in 2019 and completed a Vision Therapy & Rehabilitation residency program at UC Berkeley School of Optometry in 2020. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and the Optometrists in Vision Development and Rehabilitation. Dr. Bilkhu owns her private practice, Northern Sight Optometry, in Vaughan, Ontario. In her spare time, she serves as a board member for Vision Therapy Canada, writes articles for optometry blogs, and shares her knowledge on her professional social media page.
  • Alexa Hecht, OD
  • Dr. Alexa Hecht obtained her Doctor of Optometry from the University of Waterloo in 2021. She currently practices at Bayview Vision in Toronto, Canada, where she enjoys seeing patients of all ages and has a clinical interest in dry eye disease and ocular aesthetics. Dr. Hecht has a significant social media following on Instagram and TikTok, where she aims to educate the public about the importance of eye health and clean beauty habits. She is passionate about inspiring and mentoring the next generation of optometrists.

Future Focus is proudly sponsored by Eye Recommend.

Eye Recommend - Exclusive SponsorEye Recommend is a dynamic network of independent optometrists dedicated to providing personalized, comprehensive eye care. They offer outstanding career opportunities across various optometry specialties, along with signing bonuses, mentorship programs, and access to exclusive world-class events and education. With a vast network of experts and clinics nationwide, they empower optometry students and recent graduates to build successful and fulfilling careers.

Sign up to the NextGEN OD Newsletter to get episode notifications and other updates from NextGEN OD Canada.
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Why Elevating Your Emotional Intelligence Enables You to Provide Superior Client Service

Human Resources, Training & Onboarding

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two women shaking hands

In the service-oriented world of business, exceptional client service is vital. While technical expertise is important, the ability to connect with clients on an emotional level is what truly sets you apart. Emotional intelligence (EQ) is key to building these meaningful connections. By enhancing your EQ, you not only improve your professional abilities but also elevate the quality of service you deliver to your clients. Here’s how developing EQ leads to better client service:

  1. Enhanced Decision-Making for Client Needs

When you possess high EQ, you excel at making decisions that are both rational and emotionally attuned to your clients’ needs. By understanding their emotions and concerns, you can offer solutions that are not only effective but also resonate with them on a personal level. This fosters stronger client relationships and increases satisfaction, as clients feel heard and valued.

  1. Improved Client Relationships

Building and maintaining strong client relationships is essential for long-term success. High EQ allows you to connect with clients on a deeper level, fostering trust and mutual respect. When clients feel understood and appreciated, they are more likely to remain loyal and refer others to your services. Demonstrating empathy and understanding consistently creates a positive and memorable client experience.

  1. Increased Adaptability to Client Expectations

Client needs and expectations can change rapidly. Emotional intelligence provides the flexibility needed to navigate these changes effectively. Whether it’s adjusting to evolving requirements or handling unexpected challenges, high EQ enables you to stay calm, responsive, and solution focused. This ensures that clients receive the best possible service, regardless of the circumstances.

  1. Enhanced Communication with Clients

Effective communication is the foundation of excellent client service. With high EQ, you can convey your ideas clearly while understanding the emotions and concerns behind your clients’ words. This ensures that your communications are not only clear and concise but also empathetic and supportive, leading to better outcomes and stronger client relationships. Enhanced listening skills, a core component of EQ, help you fully understand your clients’ needs and respond in ways that meet their expectations.

  1. Better Stress Management for Client Satisfaction

Managing stress is crucial when working closely with clients, especially in high-pressure situations. High EQ equips you with the tools to manage your emotions, allowing you to stay composed and focused when challenges arise. This calm demeanor reassures clients, contributing to a positive experience and enhancing their overall satisfaction with your services.

  1. Delivering Consistent, High-Quality Service

By elevating your EQ, you position yourself to deliver consistent, high-quality service that meets or exceeds client expectations. The ability to manage relationships, adapt to changing needs, and communicate effectively ensures you can provide tailored solutions that genuinely benefit your clients. Consistency in service delivery not only strengthens client loyalty but also enhances your reputation as a reliable and professional service provider.

Elevating your emotional intelligence isn’t just about personal or professional growth—it’s about providing the best possible service to your clients. By improving your decision-making, communication, adaptability, and stress management, you offer a level of service that stands out in today’s competitive market. This professional edge keeps clients satisfied, loyal, and willing to refer others to your business.

Ready to elevate your client service to the next level?
Visit www.emotionalintelligenceconsultinginc.com to explore available trainings and discover how enhancing your EQ can transform your client interactions and boost your business success. Don’t just meet expectations—exceed them with the power of emotional intelligence.

 

Jade Bodzasy

Jade Bodzasy

Jade Bodzasy, Founder of Emotional Intelligence Consulting Inc., is a dedicated Coach and Consultant for Optometric Practices. Her extensive background includes over 20,000 hours of expertise focused on customer relations, work structure refinement, training method development, and fostering improved work culture within Optometric practices.

Certified in Rational Emotive Behavior Techniques (REBT), Jade possesses a unique skillset that empowers individuals to gain profound insights into the origins of their behaviors, as well as those of others. Leveraging her certification, she equips optometry practices with invaluable resources and expert guidance to establish and sustain a positive, healthful, and productive work environment.

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Episode 6: Eyes Wide Shut Part 3

Practice, Revenue RX

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Revenue RX Optical Wins Podcast

By Joseph Mireault
Optical Retail Entrepreneur, Podcast Host, Certified Business Coach

In this episode of Revenue RX: Optical Retail Wins, I explore how simple, grassroots ideas can unlock new opportunities for your business—no complicated SEO, website tricks, or expensive social media campaigns required.

Sure, those digital tools are important, but sometimes the most effective strategies are right in front of us. Innovation isn’t reserved for the tech-savvy; it’s about being curious, thinking differently, and taking the time to notice opportunities around you.

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Discovering Opportunities Next Door

One of my favorite lessons in innovation started with a vacant storefront next to my optical shop. For months, the empty space was doing me no favors. But one day, during one of my walkabouts, I stumbled across a nail salon struggling in a nearby, run-down building. They were always busy, fully booked, and operating on a month-to-month lease.

I saw an opportunity. I armed the salon owners with information about the vacant space next to my store, helped them negotiate better terms with the landlord, and within 60 days, they had moved in. This wasn’t just luck—it was a deliberate move to create a synergy between our businesses. Their clientele, mostly women aged 35-65, overlapped perfectly with my customer base.

We took it a step further: I provided the nail salon with discount vouchers to hand out to their customers, encouraging them to visit my optical shop. I also placed signage on the salon’s back entrance, leading to a shared parking lot, with exclusive offers for their clients. This simple partnership brought in new customers without the need for expensive ads—just a bit of legwork and old-school marketing.

Leveraging Hotel Room Directories

Another opportunity came from the two hotels within a block of my store. Hotel directories often feature local business ads and promotions, but none of my competitors had taken advantage of this space. So, I approached the hotels with a proposition: I’d be the exclusive optical business in their directories.

Many hotel guests stay long enough to purchase new eyewear, and for those who didn’t, we offered free shipping. It was a low-effort, high-reward strategy—tapping into a new customer base with minimal expense. Innovation doesn’t need to be groundbreaking; sometimes it’s just about being the first to notice an overlooked opportunity.

Cross-Promotion with Hearing Services

My next big win came from recognizing the connection between vision and hearing. I noticed that many of my older customers could benefit from hearing screenings. Instead of setting up a hearing business myself, I partnered with a local hearing company that needed a place to conduct tests.

We set up a small hearing booth in the back of my store and advertised free screenings on our windows and sidewalk signs. The hearing company paid a monthly fee for the space, and I gained foot traffic from people seeking hearing tests—most of whom also wore glasses. It was a win-win. When the original hearing company pulled out, I quickly partnered with another one, ensuring the continuity of the service.

This collaboration didn’t require hiring new staff or investing in expensive equipment—just a bit of creative thinking. It was about staying in my lane while leveraging partnerships to increase customer visits.

Empowering Customers with a Photo Comparison Studio

One day, I noticed customers taking selfies while trying on frames, but they struggled to compare multiple looks. I invested in a specialized camera system that displayed four images side-by-side, allowing customers to see themselves from different angles. It also featured easy-to-understand content about lens coatings and eye health.

This simple setup, which I called the “studio,” transformed the shopping experience. Customers could sit comfortably, compare their looks, and feel empowered to make informed decisions. This wasn’t just about selling glasses—it was about enhancing trust and building customer confidence. The ROI from this interactive tool was immediate, paying for itself almost daily.

Innovation: A Continuous Process

Innovation isn’t complicated—it’s about trying new things and acting on ideas. It’s not enough to have good ideas; execution is what sets successful businesses apart. Whether it’s moving in a new neighbor, advertising in hotel directories, or partnering with a hearing company, the key is staying curious and open to opportunities.

I learned early on that holding onto ideas without sharing them stifles growth. As a kid, I was told, “He who tells all he knows, knows little.” But I’ve found the opposite to be true—when we share what we know, we create opportunities for others to share with us, and we all benefit.

In this episode of Revenue RX, I remind you that what got you here today won’t get you where you want to go tomorrow. To grow, you need to keep innovating. Innovation isn’t always high-tech; it’s about seeing what’s already around you, reframing problems, and finding solutions in unexpected places.

Tune in to this episode for more insights, and stay tuned for future episodes where I’ll explore the power of trust, communication, and image in driving conversions. Because at the end of the day, innovation is simply doing new things.

Joseph Mireault

Joseph Mireault

Joseph Mireault, Optical Entrepreneur, Business Coach, and Published Author.

Joseph was the owner and president at Tru-Valu Optical and EyeWorx for 16 years. During his tenure, he consistently generated a sustainable $500K in annual gross revenue from the dispensary.

He now focuses on the Optical industry, and as a serial entrepreneur brings extensive experience from a variety of different ventures.

Joseph is also a Certified FocalPoint Business Coach and looks to work directly with ECPs in achieving their goals.

Through his current endeavour, the (Revenue RX, Optical Retail Wins podcast) he shares the challenges and solutions of running an Optical business.

His insights are shared with optical business owners aspiring for greater success in his new book,  “An Entrepreneur’s Eye Care Odyssey: The Path to Optical Retail Success.”  

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