I have been purchasing glasses for personal use for 10 years from international opticians in asia, europe, across the States and online. In my lifetime, I have never provided a 5 star rating to any business - regardless of the industry or my experience - because I always find my wild expectations are insatiable, the value for money is not on par, or I think of some very concrete ways of improving the business where I would profit.
Upon walking in, I was immediately greeted with sincerity. On a whim with no appointment, I went in to see a specific staff member I had spoken to over the phone. He was busy on the phone, but as soon as he was aware that I was waiting, he tactfully wrapped up the call, and in a matter of seconds, was free for me. This heightened sense of awareness and mindfulness is rare.
The knowledge of the staff here at Georgetown Optician is of a depth and breadth that will surprise you. They are true experts with technical, product, and process savvy. Their insights and efficiency are unmatched. Their proactive and casual disposition is inviting. The store's pup is awesome and relaxes the mood. It feels less like a store trying to sell you product ( of high quality) and more like a "knowledge or solutions center." They worked on my frames for free, and fixed it in a matter of seconds. Beyond that, they also recommended me to a few local stores that would address my very specific repair needs - with free insights into the service level and price points of each local store (they are very transparent and knowledgeable about their competitors) as well as with insight into general market conditions, materials, and eyecare adhesives. These insights would take years of experience to amass on your own. This was perhaps one of the most productive 3 minutes inside a retail store I have ever spent. For a man who has been subject to patiently waited for eons in fitting rooms while his lovely girlfriend tried half the store's collection, you can imagine my hesitation to frequent any retail space. But if you want to learn how a business should be run - any business - go in. A higher standard is kept here everyday.
Thinking freely: 1 small point of improvement on customer service that is uncommon in the US - but popular in Asia - would be to offer parched customers a beverage, tea, or hot/cold towel upon arrival. Addressing a small personal need (non-business related) before conducting business is a show of respect in other countries and conducive to spending. This is quite common in Asia and not too much of a stretch of the imagination to implement for the international crowd here in DC, but perhaps pricey with the amount of foot traffic on Wisconsin.
My highest compliments go to the owner and the entire staff. If you need glasses, stop your search and go here. If you do not wear glasses but are a student of business, go in. If you are a serial entrepreneur and are looking for ways to enhance your businesses, go in. My point is: find any reason to visit this store. You will quickly get a sense of what it is like to run a great firm and create an experience that is truly impressive.
When you go, ask for Pierce. He will make you feel welcome, handle your needs with efficiency, and you will leave with either a pair of glasses or with well-informed options/insights to keep you very happy. read more
