The Key to Recognizing Opportunities

 

Becoming a clinic owner often seems like a distant dream when embarking on a career in optometry. However, opportunities can arise sooner than expected. This article delves into the experiences of four young OSI Group optometrists who recently embarked on their respective co-ownership journeys. Their insights underscore the key considerations one should make when seeking a partnership.

Choosing the Right Clinic

Defining your vision of an ideal clinic is the first step. Julie Brassard, who joined Clinique OPTOPLUS Laval as a partner in January 2023, underscores the importance of aligning your first job with this vision:

“Becoming a partner wasn’t part of my original plan, but after six years of practice, I was ready for the challenge. The support from the existing owners, whom I trusted, was invaluable. Integrating into a leadership team that shares your values smoothens the transition.”

Navigating Financing

Financing can be a significant concern, but many solutions, including bank loans and grants, are available. Anne-Sophie Buteau, a partner since September 2022 at Clinique d’optométrie du Lac-Mégantic, shares her unique experience:

“I was offered special conditions that didn’t require financing because I was approached by the remaining partner, with whom I had previously worked. The negotiations with the outgoing owner were amicable, and he will receive my dividends until my buyout is complete.”

Emphasizing Collaboration

Successful collaboration hinges on transparency, shared goals, and a division of responsibilities according to each co-owner’s strengths. Karine Dufour, a partner since September 2023 at Clinique visuelle Francine Jarry, remarks:

“Things aligned perfectly for me. I was comfortable handling the areas that Dr. Jarry preferred to avoid, such as technology, updates, and the website. In exchange, I will learn from her about the aspects I am less familiar with, such as accounting, schedule planning, and staff management.”

The Work-Life Balancing Act

Achieving work-life balance depends on effective time and priority management, delegation, and seeking help when necessary. Maxime MacGregor, co-owner of Centre visuel Lafontaine MacGregor Magny since December 2023, emphasizes:

“Surrounding yourself with the right people is crucial. My co-owner and I, both having young families, wanted to focus primarily on optometry. Therefore, we entrusted human resources management, scheduling, and supplier meetings to a loyal employee, cementing a long-term collaboration.”

Key Takeaways

The collective advice from these new co-owners can be distilled into four crucial points for young optometrists: stay well-informed to make educated decisions, continually learn from your colleagues, seize opportunities without fear, and take the time to do things right. These tips will help you view the prospect of becoming a partner with optimism.

One Free Hour of Coaching!

Interested in co-owning a clinic? Contact OSI Group for a complimentary hour of coaching with no obligations. Ask all your questions and get the guidance you need.