BLOG SPOT - JIMMY ROD

COLLABORATION OVER COMPETITION

In the world of barbering, the craft of cutting hair has evolved from a simple trade into a complex, highly competitive industry. While competition can drive innovation and excellence, the barbering community often finds itself trapped in a cycle of unnecessary rivalry.

This relentless push for dominance can overshadow the true essence of the profession. As barbershops spring up on every corner and multiply in every major shopping centre, the focus on outshining the competition sometimes takes precedence over collaboration and community, ultimately diluting the camaraderie that once defined the industry.

I believe that if someone is going to take the time and dedication to teach you the craft, you owe it to your teacher to at the very least, see out the completion of your apprenticeship. We have built this need in society through social media to get to the finish line as fast as possible, negligent of the experience and lessons taught through the duration of an apprenticeship.

I see a lot of ads and social media posts, shop owners and managers looking for young barbers with experience. Not willing to take the hit in teaching the right person from scratch. Even approaching staff from other businesses that someone has taken the time to teach. Promises of greener grass and more money - irresistible to today’s young barber and unfortunately a toxic trait of our once great trade.

Train your first-year apprentice with the same dedication and patience, recognising that every skilled barber was once a beginner. By investing in their growth from the start, you not only contribute to their success but also ensure the longevity and quality of our trade as a whole. Let’s rebuild our profession’s reputation by nurturing new talent, fostering loyalty, and upholding the values that once defined our craft.

Tall Poppy Syndrome is a fascinating yet challenging phenomenon in business. Initially, we celebrate those who take risks, but as soon as they succeed, the mood shifts. There’s often a push to bring them down through rumours and disparaging remarks, sometimes fuelled by envy or regret over missed opportunities.

Take, for example, our recent sponsorship of a sporting team—a club I’ve supported my entire life. Unfortunately, another barber in the industry tried to undermine our efforts by creating online polls to decide who should be the official barber. This kind of behaviour is not acceptable. Instead of tearing others down, we should be focusing on creating and nurturing our own ideas. It’s a shame to see such childish behaviour, but the best response is to continue striving for excellence and letting our achievements speak for themselves and not letting negative energy bring you or your business down.

In an industry built on tradition and skill, I would like to see a change; the current climate of rivalry and haste threatens to chip at the very foundation that has made barbering a respected craft. The pressures of instant success, fuelled by social media and the allure of quick gains, have fostered a culture where mentorship is undervalued, and loyalty is scarce. However, by recognising the importance of community, collaboration, and the time-honoured journey of mastering the trade, we can begin to rebuild the camaraderie that once made barbering not just a job, but a lifelong vocation. In doing so, we honour the true essence of the craft—one that thrives not in competition, but in shared passion and respect for the art of Barbering.

@jimmyrods