Sometimes barbers need to step outside your comfort zone in order to progress your career, grow your client base, and stay motivated. Murdock London Master Barber Joe Pomper offers his advice on pushing yourself to the next level in the year to come.
Be Bold with your Consultation
Don’t be afraid to offer advice based on your expertise and to contradict the client if what they are asking for is unsuitable for them. It might seem like the easier option to go with what the client requests, but if you know it won’t suit their face shape or is a style they won’t be able to maintain at home, they’ll thank you for their great-looking hair.
Be Resolute with Recommendations
Suggesting your client buys a particular product to help keep their hair looking sharp at home is not selling, it’s part of a professional service. During the appointment, don’t be afraid to talk about the products you are using and why. Don’t assume to know a client’s budget, they may be more than happy to spend money on professional products that will help them look great between appointments — a nudge from you, their expert barber, could be all they’re waiting for.
Be Challenging with Change
It’s easy for you and your loyal client to fall into a routine, but if a client gets bored, they may go elsewhere for that new start. Don’t shy away from suggesting a change. If a client has had the same cut and style for a long time, they may be desperate for a transformation, but not know what to ask for. Make sure every consultation gives the client an opening to ask for change and for you to make suggestions about how they can mix things up a little. The smallest change can make a big difference to how a client looks and feels, so don’t be afraid to make suggestions, or your client may decide to change their barber.
Stand Your Ground When it Comes to Saying ‘No’
Sometimes it’s ok to say no to a client, whether it’s due to constantly missing appointments or being rude when they’re in your chair. Your mental health is important, so start the year as you mean to go on.
Don’t Be Afraid to Try New Things
You spend time learning new skills, but making that leap to using them on a client can be hard. Practise on friends, colleagues, and blockheads until you have your new skills mastered, then have confidence in your abilities. The more you can offer your clients, the greater their loyalty will be.
For barbers looking to step outside of their comfort zone, it can also pay to take inspiration from others. Speaking of, have you checked out our Collection of the Month for February?