The art of mentoring

^{Finding the right form of mentoring can improve development}

Rome was not built in a day and in an optical context, it takes time to build the experience necessary for a practitioner to be able to run a practice. By definition of being qualified, they will have learned the theory of their profession, but understanding the commercial side of running a business is another matter entirely. Books can be read and courses can be taken, but another option to consider is mentoring.

John French, CEO at SightCare, a business support organisation that provides coaching and mentoring services, describes mentoring as ‘a supportive relationship where a more experienced or knowledgeable individual guides, advises and shares expertise with someone less experienced.’