How to Be Traditional Barber - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Nov 1, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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A traditional barber is a professional that offers haircuts, shaves, and other grooming services. The effect of going to a traditional barber is that customers receive a high-quality cut that suits their individual style. Traditional barbers use specialized tools such as scissors, razors, and clippers to make precise cuts and shapes.

They also have the training and experience to provide a customized experience for each customer. In addition, traditional barbers often use natural products and essential oils to improve the overall look of the hair. This can help protect the hair from damage caused by frequent styling.

Finally, traditional barbers also offer advice on hairstyles that best suit an individual's face shape and hair type. Overall, customers can benefit from going to a traditional barber for a quality cut, personalized experience, and useful tips.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. You must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent to become a traditional barber.
Find a Barber School. Find a barber school that is accredited and provides the necessary training for prospective barbers.
Complete the Training Program. Complete the required training program at the barber school, which typically includes instruction in hair cutting, styling, shaving, and related subjects.
Obtain a License. All states require barbers to obtain a license, so check with your states licensing board to find out how to apply and to determine if any additional training or exams are required.
Join a Professional Association. Consider joining one of the professional associations for barbers such as the National Association of Barber Boards of America.
Get Experience. Most states require a minimum amount of experience before you can obtain your license, so start looking for an apprenticeship or entry-level position at a barbershop to gain the necessary experience.
Consider Specializing. Consider specializing in a particular area such as classic haircuts, straight razor shaves, facial hair styling, or even scalp massage.
Market Yourself. Once you are licensed, create business cards and flyers to market yourself and your services. You might also want to create a website or join online directories for barbers to help increase your visibility.

Choosing a reliable and qualified barber can be a daunting task. There are a variety of factors to consider when selecting the right barber, such as the individual's experience and skill level, the quality of the products used, and the level of customer service provided. When searching for a trusted barber, it is important to read reviews and references, visit the barber shop in person, and ask questions about services offered.

Taking the time to research and find a reliable and qualified barber can help ensure that customers receive the best possible service and results. it is beneficial to inquire about the barber's experience and certifications. By doing so, customers can be confident that they are receiving the best quality service and care.

You may want to check Haircut and Beard Trimming Technician/Barber, Haircare and Styling Consultant/Barber, and Licensed Barbershop Owner for alternative.

Job Description

Provide customers with traditional barbering services such as haircuts, beard trims, and facial shaves.
Use clippers and scissors to cut and shape hair.
Provide advice and recommendations to customers on styles and products.
Keep a clean and sanitary work area and tools.
Keep current on trends in mens grooming and hairstyling.
Greet customers and build good customer relationships.
Take payments from customers and provide change when necessary.
Monitor inventory of supplies and order new items when needed.
Maintain records of customer visits and services provided.
Assist in training new barbers when needed.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Haircutting techniques
Hair styling techniques
Knowledge of the anatomy of the scalp
Knowledge of different hair types
Knowledge of hair products and their uses
Ability to work with electric clippers, scissors, and razors
Ability to communicate effectively with customers
Good customer service skills
Ability to maintain a clean and sanitary work environment
Knowledge of facial hair grooming and beard shaping techniques
Knowledge of sanitation and sterilization procedures
Knowledge of health and safety regulations

A successful traditional barber must possess a wide range of skills. The most important skill to have is the ability to provide a precise cut and style. This requires extensive knowledge of the structure and shape of the head, face, and hair type, as well as an understanding of the different methods used to create a desired look.

In addition, a barber should have excellent communication and customer service skills to ensure a pleasant experience for the client. Furthermore, a traditional barber should have knowledge of the latest trends in haircutting and styling and have the ability to think creatively and come up with ideas for unique looks. Having these skills is key for providing high-quality service and gaining customer loyalty, which will lead to more business and success for the barbershop.

Hair Cutting and Styling Artist/Barber, Creative Barber, and Freelance Barber are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have cutting men's hair?
What techniques do you use to provide a traditional barber cut?
How do you stay up to date on the latest barbering trends?
How do you handle difficult customers?
How do you ensure customer satisfaction?
What is your experience with beard trimming and styling?
How have you handled time management in a busy barbershop?
Describe a time when you had to handle an emergency situation in the shop.
What safety protocols do you follow when using barbering tools?
In what ways do you go above and beyond for your customers?

Common Tools in Industry

Clippers. These are handheld electric tools designed to cut hair. (eg: Andis T-Outliner)
Shears. These are scissors designed for cutting hair. (eg: Kamisori Black Dragon Shears)
Combs. Used to section and style the hair. (eg: Kent Handmade Comb)
Razors. Used to create close shaves, lines, and edging on the hair. (eg: Feather Artist Club SS Razor)
Brushes. Used to style and shape the hair. (eg: Mason Pearson Hair Brush)
Towels. Used to dry the hair after washing. (eg: Utopia Towels Cotton Towel Set)
Capes. Used to protect the customers clothing while cutting. (eg: Ibiza Professional Hair Cutting Cape)
Neck Strips. Used to protect the customers skin from clippings and water. (eg: Andis Disposable Neck Strips)
Apron. Used to protect the barbers clothing from clippings and water. (eg: Utopia Wear Waterproof Barber Apron)
Sterilizer. Used to clean and sanitize tools and equipment. (eg: Saloniture UV Sanitizer Cabinet)

Professional Organizations to Know

The Barbershop Owners and Managers Association International (BOMA)
National Association of Barbers (NAB)
Professional Beauty Association (PBA)
National Association for the Mastery of Traditional Barbers (NAMTB)
International Barber Education Council (IBEC)
International Association of Professional Barbers (IAPB)
International Association of Hairdressers and Cosmetologists (IAHC)
The American Barber Association (ABA)
National Hairdressers and Cosmetologists Association (NHCA)
Professional Barber Association (PBA)

We also have High-end Mens Haircut Specialist/Barber, Creative Hair Artist/Barber, and Up-to-date Barber jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Razor. A sharp blade used for shaving hair.
Straight Razor. A razor with a long, thin blade that folds into its handle.
Barber Pole. A vertical pole with alternating red and white stripes, traditionally used to indicate the presence of a barber shop.
Hot Towel Shave. A barbering technique involving the use of hot towels to soften the skin and facial hair before a shave.
Beard Trim. The process of cutting, trimming, and shaping a beard.
Haircut. The process of cutting and styling hair.
Facial. A skin care treatment that cleanses, exfoliates, and moisturizes the face.
Hair Styling. The process of manipulating hair into a desired style or shape.
Shampoo. A liquid soap used to cleanse the hair.
Hair Dye. A product used to change the color of the hair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is a traditional barber? A1: A traditional barber is a professional who offers services such as haircutting, styling, shaving, and facial grooming. Q2: What tools are used by a traditional barber? A2: Traditional barbers use a variety of tools such as scissors, clippers, razors, and combs. Q3: How long does it typically take for a traditional barber to provide a haircut? A3: The time required for a traditional barber to provide a haircut varies depending on the complexity of the style. Generally, a basic cut takes about 15 minutes. Q4: What other services does a traditional barber offer? A4: In addition to haircuts, traditional barbers also offer styling and shaving services, as well as facial treatments such as hot towel shaves and facial massages. Q5: What is the cost of a traditional barber service? A5: The cost of a traditional barber service varies depending on the type of service requested and the location of the barbershop. Generally, haircutting services start at around $20.