![]() We’re trained in haircutting, but also communication skills, so we want to get it right on both fronts.” Don’t be afraid to tell someone when you aren’t happy. “Always remember, it’s your hair and your money being spent. “In the main I’d like to believe the barber would be mortified that they’ve misinterpreted what you’ve asked for and would want to ensure they get it right,” says Robinson. ![]() If so, the barber will explain and, if not, they’ll be glad you stopped them. Remember, it’s not finished yet, so its current state may be temporary. Just be honest, acknowledge the barber’s experience and expertise: “I’m sure I’m worrying over nothing, but this looks a little short to me – do you still think it will work?” or, even, “Can you talk me through what you’re doing here? It doesn’t look like how I’m used to having it.”Įven if you’re furious, stay calm so things don’t escalate – storming out won’t fix your hair – and explain your worries. We’re trained in haircutting, but also communication skills’ ‘Don’t be afraid to tell someone when you aren’t happy. Make it clear you’re aware this is a work in progress, but that you’re in control: “Just wondering… Can we leave the top for now and concentrate on the sides so I can see how they look before making up my mind?” or, perhaps, “I’ve just been thinking… I’m not sure about what we said for the final look. If you’re worried about criticising, frame it as an innocent-sounding question: “Remind me, what will the top look like when we’re done?” or “I just want to check… Is this as short as we’re going at the sides?” “As a barber it’s important not to plough through but stop and ensure that we open the conversation to allow for a realignment,” says Robinson. “As a client, if you’re beginning to feel uncertain or uncomfortable, please do speak up.” In case they can’t hear you over the clippers, hold your hand up and ask if you can take a second to talk about where things are at. It’s likely your barber will pick up on the signs anyway – your body language will give you away. Remember: it’s never too late (unless they’re halfway through a buzzcut). The ultimate nightmare, especially with stylists we don’t know very well, is sitting and staring into that unforgiving mirror watching our haircut veer off course. Reputation plays a huge part in any barber’s success anyone worth their salt won’t want you clambering out of the chair and telling everyone what a terrible time you had “Oh, yes, that looks fine,” we trill, as we pay, before racing to the nearest hat shop, cancelling all our plans. And yet so many of us lie to our hairdresser. It’s a position of trust, really, that relies on clear and honest two-way communication. But now we’re coming out of our cage (and we’ve been doing just fine), it’s time for an expert to wield the scissors once more. Others, though, let nature take its course, which is why some men cruising the aisles of your local supermarket look decidedly 1970s. Some of us took matters into our own hands while locked away from our grooming guardians, braving the shave or approaching our thatches like craftsmen and studying YouTube videos to get that cut just right. Haven’t you missed the swish of the gown as it slips over your shoulders, settling in the chair, eyes adjusting to the light as you prepare to spend the next 30 to 45 minutes glaring into your soul in the mirror? Of course you have. The pandemic and its lockdowns kept us away from those who meant the most, the people we can’t live without: relatives, besties… barbers.
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