Truths About All-Important Client Consultations

The consultation holds great importance in the relationship between a barber and their client.  This is the time for a friendly greeting to welcome the client to the chair and set the tone for the overall experience.  The consultation is also a prime opportunity to understand the client's desired haircut and style. By having a conversation and gathering information about their lifestyle, job, hobbies, grooming preferences, and any problems or concerns, the barber can effectively determine the most suitable cut, style, and products for the individual.

Truth about Communication

​Communication can sometimes be a challenge when dealing with clients from different regions. For instance, when someone walks into my barbershop in Indiana and asks for a "Philly Fade," they really mean a high fade. It's not uncommon for clients to be unsure about the specific numbers they want for their haircut. They might request a 1-2 fade but based on my expertise and their description of their lifestyle or desired style, I can tell it's too short. In these situations, I find that using pictures can be incredibly helpful. As the saying goes, "A picture is worth a thousand words." Showing clients examples of different haircuts puts their minds at ease and allows me to understand their preferences better, ensuring a successful outcome. 

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Truth about “Do Whatever”

​Sometimes, a client will plop down in the chair and casually say, "Just do whatever," or "What do you think will look best?" But let me tell you, my friend, these situations are never as simple as they seem. There's always some guidance provided during the consultation. As a barber, it's my duty to understand that the client has a vision in mind, and it's crucial for me to know the boundaries. That's why I always ask two vital questions: How short is too short? And what's the plan for the top? By getting these details, I can quickly whip out some pictures showcasing different styles, turning what could be a lengthy 5-10-minute consultation into a snappy 2-minute chat. Trust me, it's all about efficiency and ensuring you leave the shop looking sharp and satisfied.

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Truth About Clients

​Being realistic is essential because sometimes clients' wants aren't possible due to their hair type, texture, density, etc. This is particularly common with kids and teens. Barbers will collaborate with you to create a style that suits your unique hair type.
Barbers genuinely appreciate it when you show interest in learning about your hair type and ways to maintain and care for your hair and scalp. We are here to assist you in developing a personalized plan for your haircare needs!

Truth about End Results

​Even the most exceptional consultations can occasionally leave a client dissatisfied. One effective method to minimize this risk is to position the client facing the mirror during the haircut. This not only helps put the client at ease but also allows them to see the progress of the cut, saving time for both parties. However, despite our best efforts, there are instances where dissatisfaction may still arise. It's important to remember that even the most skilled barbers and every client have experienced a less-than-perfect haircut at some point. The good news is that hair grows back, and we always have the opportunity to give it another try! So, don't fret if things don't go as planned – we're here to make it right.

Knowing how vital this consultation is, we strongly encourage our clients to speak up and let their barber know precisely what they want and how they want their hair to feel. We want to encourage barbers to educate clients on their needs to help everyone save time in the future and get the desired results quicker.  Knowledge makes you sharp on the inside. Applying it makes you sharp on the outside!
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