Training for Office Culture: How to Build a Team That Works (and Works Well Together)

Part 2: Training beyond tasks – building soft skills that define culture

By: Steve Vargo, OD

Optometric Management September 5, 2025

Clinical Report: Training for Office Culture in Optometry Practices

Overview

This report emphasizes the importance of soft skills training in optometry practices, highlighting its role in enhancing patient experience and staff integration. A structured approach to culture onboarding is proposed to align new hires with the desired office culture.

Background

In optometry, technical skills training is often prioritized, yet soft skills significantly influence patient satisfaction and retention. As practices face challenges in staff integration and retention, focusing on culture through soft skills training becomes essential. This approach not only improves the patient experience but also fosters a cohesive work environment.

Data Highlights

No numerical data was provided in the source material.

Key Findings

Soft skills, such as communication and behavior, are crucial for patient retention.
Culture onboarding can address discrepancies between previous and current workplace cultures for new hires.
Structured teamwork and communication training, like TeamSTEPPS, can enhance patient safety and satisfaction.
CAHPS surveys track office culture-related domains, providing actionable insights for improvement.
Interventions like peer shadow coaching and empathy training can lead to higher patient satisfaction scores.

Clinical Implications

Practices should integrate soft skills training into their onboarding processes to improve patient interactions and overall office culture. By prioritizing communication and teamwork, optometry practices can enhance patient satisfaction and reduce staff turnover.

Conclusion

Focusing on soft skills training is essential for building a positive office culture in optometry practices, ultimately leading to improved patient experiences and staff cohesion.

PentaVision

Optometric Management