3 minute read
BUSINESS OLD SCHOOL!
BARBERING IS CHANGING - TIME TO RE-EDUCATE
BY MARIO FALLACE, NEW YORK BARBERS
The barbering industry has been booming in recent years, with an increasing number of men seeking professional haircuts and grooming services. However, with the way the industry is evolving, it is essential for barbers to expand their skill sets and be knowledgeable about a wider range of hair types and styles.
Specialising in just one type of haircut and clientele can be dangerous in today’s market. Many clients are now seeking more than just a skin fade, and men’s hair trends are shifting towards longer hair with more layers. There is less clipper work and more scissor work involved, which means barbers need to be proficient in scissor work to meet their clients’ demands.
Moreover, it is vital to ensure that barbers are educated on various hair types and styles nowadays. Clients are no longer just limited to a single hair type or style, and they come in with a wide range of hair textures, lengths, and styles. A lack of knowledge and skill in catering to diverse hair types can result in a decrease in client satisfaction and, consequently, affect business growth.
While many barbers can do skin fades amazingly, the reality is that clients and trends are changing. Lots of men are embracing longer hair, curls, and waves. However, some barbers may struggle with longer hair, hair with waves and movement. They may be top notch at fades and clipper work, but further education is necessary to cater to a broader clientele.
Fortunately, Australia now has many barber education centres that can help with upskilling. Institutions such as Barber Temple, The Barber Academy, and Barbery the Craft of a Barber, just to name a few, among others. There are many companies in the industry providing barber education, offering training sessions and lookand-learns to barbers
This education will help them learn the latest hair techniques and trends, allowing them to provide premier services to their clients.
It is worth noting that upskilling will increase and sustain clientele for barber businesses. Back in the 80s, barbering died out because trends changed, and men wanted longer hair. This resulted in a mass exodus that culled barbershops because hairdressers were the ones who could do the longer styles. As a result, barbers must not repeat history and continue to evolve with the industry.
In conclusion, the barbering industry is continuously evolving, and it is necessary for barbers to expand their knowledge and skill set to cater to diverse clients. Specialising in just one type of haircut and clientele can be detrimental to the growth of a barber business. By upskilling and keeping up with the latest trends and techniques, barbers can ensure client satisfaction, increase clientele, and contribute to a prolonged future for our industry.
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