Opticians Awards Comp winner, Anthony Blackman sits down with Vivid Optical

Opticians Awards Competition winner, Anthony Blackman sits down with Vivid Optical.

Vivid Optical’s Danny Alaimo sat down with competition winner and Insight Optical Training director, Anthony Blackman to discuss his company, the awards and the optical markets perception on recruiters.

Have a read below of how the interview went.

Can you tell us a bit about Insight Training? (D.A)

Insight Optical Training acts as a training department for optical businesses. We offer a range of courses towards qualifications for optical support staff at levels 2-4 (5 & 7 in Scotland). We also offer a range of one-day workshops, CET and a bespoke service where we can design and deliver training to the individual needs of a business. Our customers are not just optical practices, but include support business such as frame companies and PMS suppliers. Since winning the NES contract to provide Level 5 & 7 training in Scotland we have seen increased demand for our Level 2 & 3 that are open courses, so they can be started at any time, with no strict weekly timetable, Our customers really appreciate their staff working towards a nationally recognised qualification and we are working on expanding our offering to include other modalities of learning and other types of courses - so watch this space!  (A.B)

How did you feel once you had found you had won the free tickets to the awards?

Obviously very excited to win. I have attended most of the award dinners in optics over the years, but this was my first time at the Optician Awards. It was also a great way to say thank you to my friend Kaye who was my supervisor back when I was a student DO, all down to Vivid Optical running competitions exclusively for optical community.

How important do you feel the awards are to the nominees and winners?

Just being nominated is a real achievement that nominees should be proud to share with their patients. It isn’t easy to make it through to the awards ceremony as the judges are quite strict. Everyone nominated deserved their round of applause and the winners really are at the top of their game. I'm sure they will all be giving their trophies a prominent location at work for all visitors to see. It was my first time at the Optician Awards, but it was a spec-tacular evening and one I'll remember. It ticked all the boxes, good food, dancing and of course, great company from the Vivid table.

How is your relationship with Vivid Optical?

The guys at Vivid Optical in my experience take recruitment very seriously. Any professionals I have sent them as referrals, the feedback I have had has always been very good. I have a working relationship with yourself. It seems all the guys at Vivid have a clear vision and they rarely deviate! Recruitment in optics has its sceptics, but Vivid are certainly the good guys.

And Finally, Did spending the night with the Vivid Optical team give you a better perspective of recruitment?

Well I had an idea of recruitment and it was mixed opinions. I spent the evening with the guys and they told me what actually goes into a successful placement and I was shocked. The guys clearly work very hard and very long hours to provide a service that the industry need. I would always recommend Vivid Optical to my Insight clients as and where recruitment might be needed.

Thanks Anthony, we are glad you enjoyed the evening and look forward to seeing you again!