What is the difference between a talented barber and a bearded butcher? There is a world of difference, especially when it comes to training, experience, approach and method. If you want to become a real barber, then you need to focus on getting a well-rounded education and the knowledge to keep customers coming back to you again and again.

Becoming the Best Barber That You Can Be

When you choose to become a barber as a career, your first step is to know what makes a good barber. Those who enter the profession are usually trained in all methods of cutting and styling. The best barbers have the following traits:
-precision
-efficiency
-broad knowledge of cutting techniques
-knowledge of how to dye hair
–excellent communication skills
-good business sense

You can cultivate these skills through a willingness to learn and by acquiring the right training. 

Training

Your first step is to enroll at a barber or cosmetology school to get professional training. Cosmetology schools will have the ability to teach you a wider range of techniques for cutting, which can benefit you in your career. As you train, you will learn the basics of cutting and styling and get hands on experience cutting real clients’ hair as you progress in your program. This prepares you to receive your certification and license once you have finished school.

Knowing Your Trade and Your Customers

A barber that ends up butchering beards is all about speed but not precision. This barber does not communicate with the customer or pay attention to details. This equates to a cheap job that makes the customer avoid coming back. The professional barber knows the terminology and techniques. This includes:
-the neckline style:  tapered, straight or rounded
-hair texture:  choppiness, razor cut, layering, thinned
-style for sideburns
-how the hair should be cut over the ears

When your client sits down, start by asking questions about these areas, how the hair should be styled and what the customer liked about the last haircut received. This will give you valuable information as to exactly what the client wants. Then, it is your turn to make any suggestions that you have to improve the look. As you are cutting the client’s hair, stop periodically to ask their opinion on the cut. This shows that you are actively trying to meet the client’s request to get the perfect style. 

Maintaining Quality

It’s also important for you to keep up with the latest trends in styling and cutting so you can offer your customers the best service. Taking the time to further your education (for example, by taking your master barbers test) will benefit your business. You’ll also need to have knowledge of solid business practices, expenses and how to track your sales. These will blend together into a successful career that will make your work enjoyable and profitable. What kind of barber do you want to be?

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