2 answers
Isaiah
Student
Utica, New York
2
Questions
Updated
817 views
What Does it take to become a Professional in Barbering.
Cutting hair has always been a goal to achieve. I remember visiting the barber for a haircut and I would want to have a specific design or view on my hair and the barber would be able to create my image to be sharp, so I wonder what are the steps to have customers changing their hair constantly
Login to comment
2 answers
Aaron Fernandes
Project Management
5
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Aaron’s Answer
Hi Isaiah, fantastic question! Hopefully I can provide some insight as a close family member of mine went through this process. Because this industry is mainly 'skill' and 'people' focused the two biggest things you can do is practice, practice, practice, and building out your relationships with other barbers and most importantly clients. You can enroll in a local community college and take some courses to understand the fundamentals, and more importantly have some sort of credential or certificate behind your name. Next, I recommend offering free or very low priced hair cuts to build out your network. Once you have attained a big enough network either open your own shop or see if you can join an existing barber shop (see the importance of networking? :) ) Slowly you can begin to raise the price to a reasonable amount and from there your clients will begin to market on your behalf by word of mouth and referrals.
Sheila Jordan
Lead Network Proj/Prog Manager
711
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Sheila’s Answer
Hi Isaiah:
Barbers cut, trim, shampoo, and style hair, mostly for male clients. They also may fit hairpieces, perform facials, and offer facial shaving. Depending on the state in which they work, some barbers are licensed to color, bleach, and highlight hair and to offer permanent-wave services. Common tools include combs, scissors, straight razors, and clippers.
HOW TO BECOME A BARBER
All states require barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists to be licensed. To qualify for a license, candidates are required to graduate from a state-approved cosmetology program.
■ Education ■
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for some positions. In addition, every state requires that barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists complete a program in a state-licensed barber or cosmetology school. These programs are mainly found in post-secondary vocational schools and typically lead to a post-secondary non-degree award or certificate. Most of these workers take advanced courses in hair styling or in other personal appearance services to keep up with the latest trends. Those who want to open their own business also may take courses in sales and marketing.
■ Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations ■
Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists must obtain a license in order to work. Qualifications for a license vary by state. After graduating from a state-approved training program, students take a state licensing exam that includes a written test and, in some cases, a practical test of styling skills or an oral exam.
In many states, cosmetology training may be credited toward a barbering license and vice versa, and a few states combine the two licenses. A fee usually is required to apply for a license, and continuing education units (CEUs) may be required with periodic license renewals.
■ Important Qualities ■
Creativity
Customer Service
Listening Skills
Physical Stamina
Tidiness
Time Management
I hope this information was helpful to you in getting started on your research. Best of luck to you!
How to Become a Barber • https://www.bls.gov/ooh/personal-care-and-service/barbers-hairstylists-and-cosmetologists.htm#tab-4
Barbers cut, trim, shampoo, and style hair, mostly for male clients. They also may fit hairpieces, perform facials, and offer facial shaving. Depending on the state in which they work, some barbers are licensed to color, bleach, and highlight hair and to offer permanent-wave services. Common tools include combs, scissors, straight razors, and clippers.
HOW TO BECOME A BARBER
All states require barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists to be licensed. To qualify for a license, candidates are required to graduate from a state-approved cosmetology program.
■ Education ■
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for some positions. In addition, every state requires that barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists complete a program in a state-licensed barber or cosmetology school. These programs are mainly found in post-secondary vocational schools and typically lead to a post-secondary non-degree award or certificate. Most of these workers take advanced courses in hair styling or in other personal appearance services to keep up with the latest trends. Those who want to open their own business also may take courses in sales and marketing.
■ Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations ■
Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists must obtain a license in order to work. Qualifications for a license vary by state. After graduating from a state-approved training program, students take a state licensing exam that includes a written test and, in some cases, a practical test of styling skills or an oral exam.
In many states, cosmetology training may be credited toward a barbering license and vice versa, and a few states combine the two licenses. A fee usually is required to apply for a license, and continuing education units (CEUs) may be required with periodic license renewals.
■ Important Qualities ■
Creativity
Customer Service
Listening Skills
Physical Stamina
Tidiness
Time Management
I hope this information was helpful to you in getting started on your research. Best of luck to you!
Sheila recommends the following next steps: