Hiring Barbers
Barbers provide hair care services including: cutting, trimming, shampooing, and styling hair for both male and female clients. They also fit hairpieces, offer facial shaving, and some even perform facials. Depending on the state the barbers are employed in, they are licensed to highlight, color, and bleach hair and also offer permanent-wave services. In some cases, barbers with enough industry experience perform managerial duties that may include hiring, supervising, as well as keeping business and inventory records, and ordering supplies. These workers are mostly employed in a salon or barbershop, although some work in hotels, resorts, or spas. Usually, barbers earn an average salary of $42,396 a year. However, quality work and good customer service contribute to greater earning capacity for the workers. Overall the job prospects are promising, with the rate of employment projected to grow at 8 percent in the next decade. Workers with experience can go on to hold managerial positions in a salon or open their own establishments.
Barber Responsibilities
A barber performs a variety of services, often under the supervision of a higher graded hairstylist or a designated supervisor. The duties generally depend on the position and the type of establishment; standalone or salon chain. Some barbers are required to work full time although part-time openings are also available. Barbers provide consultation to the client in matters pertaining to their hair care needs. They are responsible for the upkeep of their designated work station and shop and must ensure that quality services are provided with minimal delays. Other duties assigned to them include operating the cash register, maintaining inventory, upselling hair care products to clients, and maintenance of the daily appointment book.
Barber Job Requirements
Candidates must have a high school diploma or its equivalent. In addition, most establishments require the applicant to have a license from a state-approved barber school program and favor candidates with previous hairstyling experience. Hiring managers prefer candidates with customer service skills and a good work ethic. They should listen carefully to what the client wants in order to ensure that the client is satisfied with the result. Barbers must be polite, friendly, and be able to communicate with customers. They should be efficient, well organized, and able to handle several duties simultaneously. Another crucial requirement the candidates should have is the ability to keep up with the latest trends and always be trained in new styles. Time management skills are also essential to the position as scheduling appointments and providing services occurs in a fast paced environment. Physical stamina is also a fundamental requirement.
