The vision care sector is evolving at an unprecedented pace. As the demand for innovation in areas such as optometry, ophthalmology, and vision technology increases, so does the need for top-tier talent. Traditional methods of talent acquisition—job boards, direct applications, and standard networking—are no longer sufficient to attract the industry’s brightest minds. At Morgan Latif, we have developed a multifaceted approach that goes beyond the basics, using innovative strategies to connect with top talent across the globe, in our executive search business our Senior Client Consultant @meganlafrenais looks at how we do it.
1. Attending Global Trade Shows: A Gateway to Industry Insights
Trade shows are a cornerstone of our talent acquisition strategy. Major events such as Vision Expo East, Vision Expo West, MIDO, Silmo, ASCRS, ESCRS, and AAO offer more than just a platform to discover the latest products and innovations in the vision care sector. These gatherings provide unparalleled opportunities to meet and engage with key industry players. Whether it’s engaging in in-depth discussions about the future of eye care at Vision Expo East in New York, or exploring cutting-edge optical technology at MIDO in Milan, each event allows us to meet with potential candidates, industry leaders, and innovators who could be the perfect fit for our clients.
Over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of meeting brilliant individuals who are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in vision care. These interactions not only help us identify top talent but also keep us informed about the skills and expertise that will be most valuable in the future.
2. Local Presence: Building Relationships in Key Markets
While global trade shows are invaluable, nothing beats the effectiveness of being physically present in the locations where we work. Regular visits to key markets allow us to develop a deep understanding of the local culture, business environment, and talent landscape. By being on the ground, we can build stronger relationships with both clients and candidates, ensuring that we are always top of mind when new opportunities arise.
These visits also allow us to conduct in-person interviews and assessments, providing us with a better understanding of a candidate’s fit within a particular organisation. Moreover, it gives us the opportunity to network with local professionals, expanding our pool of potential candidates.
3. Organising Networking Events: Fostering Industry Connections
In addition to attending industry events and visiting key markets, we also take the initiative to organise our own networking events. These gatherings are tailored to the specific needs of the vision care sector, bringing together professionals from various fields, including optometry, ophthalmology, optical technology, and healthcare.
Our networking events are more than just a chance to exchange business cards—they are designed to foster meaningful connections and encourage the sharing of ideas. We invite industry leaders, innovators, and up-and-coming talent to engage in discussions about the future of vision care, the challenges facing the industry, and the opportunities for growth.
4. The Power of Referrals: Trust-Based Talent Sourcing
Referrals are one of the most powerful tools in our talent acquisition arsenal. In the vision care sector, where specialised skills and expertise are in high demand, a referral from a trusted source can make all the difference.
We’ve found that one good referral often leads to another. When a candidate or client refers someone to us, it’s a testament to the trust they have in our ability to connect the right people with the right opportunities. Over time, these referrals help us build a robust network of top-tier professionals, each with a proven track record in the industry.
5. Cross-Industry Expertise: Sharing Contacts for Greater Reach
At Morgan Latif, we don’t limit our talent search to just one industry. Our work across multiple sectors, including healthcare, technology, and manufacturing, allows us to “share” contacts and insights, broadening the scope of our search for the perfect candidate. This cross-industry approach enables us to introduce fresh perspectives and innovative thinking to the vision care sector.
By tapping into our extensive network of professionals from various industries, we can identify candidates who not only possess the necessary skills but also bring a unique viewpoint that can drive innovation and growth in vision care.
6. Global Associations: Leveraging Memberships for Impact
Being part of global associations like the Optical Women’s Association (OWA) gives us direct access to a diverse network of professionals who are deeply embedded in the vision care sector. Membership in such organisations provides us with insights into industry trends, access to exclusive events, and opportunities to collaborate with thought leaders.
Our involvement in these associations has had a significant impact on our ability to source top talent. The relationships we’ve built through these memberships have opened doors to new opportunities, allowing us to connect with candidates who might not be accessible through traditional channels.
7. Strong Social Media Presence: Connecting with a Global Audience
In today’s digital age, a strong social media presence is essential for connecting with talent on a global scale. Our active engagement on platforms like LinkedIn allows us to share insights, industry trends, and job opportunities with a wide audience. By regularly posting updates from trade shows, networking events, and industry gatherings, we keep our network informed and engaged.
Social media also enables us to showcase the human side of our business, highlighting the relationships we’ve built and the successes we’ve achieved. This visibility helps us attract top talent who are looking for a recruitment partner with deep industry expertise and a personal touch.
In the vision care sector, sourcing top talent requires more than just a reliance on traditional recruitment methods. By attending global trade shows, maintaining a local presence, organising networking events, leveraging referrals, sharing contacts across industries, joining global associations, and cultivating a strong social media presence, we at Morgan Latif are able to connect with the brightest minds in the field.
As the vision care industry continues to evolve, so too must our approach to executive search. By continually refining our strategies and expanding our network, we ensure that we remain at the forefront of talent acquisition in this dynamic and innovative sector.
Find out more about these methods and how we can support your vision care hiring needs by contacting @meganlafrenais today.
