Business Old School!

BY MARIO & DION FALLACE

How to pick the right apprentice for your barbershop:

Adding an apprentice to your barbershop team is a strategic move aimed at enhancing your business and helping build talent within the industry. However, selecting the right apprentice is crucial.

Understanding Your Responsibilities:

Before embarking on the journey of hiring an apprentice, it’s important to familiarise yourself with your obligations as an employer in regard to apprentices. This includes understanding the ins and outs of apprentice pay, TAFE fees, and distinguishing between school-based and fulltime apprenticeship arrangements. Adhering to these obligations is fundamental to creating a supportive and compliant work environment.

Investing in Mentorship:

Recognise that an apprentice is more than a student; they are an employee who requires active mentorship and guidance. While education at trade school plays a role, the bulk of their learning will happen hands on, in the barbershop. You must keep in mind that an apprentice will most likely not have any industry experience at all, as this may be their first job. You need to have patience with them whilst committing to providing consistent attention and mentorship, which is essential for nurturing their skills and integrating them seamlessly into your team.

Selecting an Apprentice:

1. Initiative: During the trial period, observe the apprentice’s initiative. Are they proactive in executing tasks and displaying resourcefulness? Look for candidates who demonstrate a willingness to take initiative and show eagerness to learn and contribute.

2. Engagement: Seek apprentices who actively engage with the workplace environment. Are they observant and eager to learn from senior team members? opt for individuals who show a genuine interest in the craft and demonstrate a desire to be part of your team.

3. Support System: For younger apprentices, particularly those under 18 or enrolled in school-based programs, assess their support network outside of the workplace. Meeting their parents can provide insights into their reliability and transportation arrangements. Select apprentices who have a dependable support system, mirroring the reliability you expect from full-time employees.

Selecting the right apprentice is a pivotal decision if you want success in hiring apprentices. By understanding your responsibilities as an employer, investing in mentorship, and employing a discerning selection process, you can identify individuals who will not only become an asset to your team and your business, but also contribute to the advancement of the barbering industry as a whole.

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