Elite Barber James Williams of Barber in North Chicago Illinois says that “All Barbers want to cut hair but the best barbers want to build trust as well.” Mr. Williams may be on to something. A recent study shows that, in general, people trust their barber just as much, if not more, than they trust policeman and doctors. Indeed, according to Maya Hammouri, Director of Member Relations at the American Barber Association, “most of the complaints received by the ABA really boils down to a breakdown in trust.” According to Hammouri, “Barbers must fully understand their clients expectations…so more communication is needed on the front end.”
Hammouri recommend five things that Barbers must do to build trust with clients:
- Communicate: Barbers must listen to clients, assuring the client that he/she fully understands the clients needs and expectations.
- Understand Expectations: Barbers must fully understand the clients expectations. Often better understanding comes with repetition but early on fully understanding a client’s expectations could be a little dicey.
- Be Honest: Barbers must be honest with clients – clients appreciate honesty.
- Consistency: Barbers must be consistent in the style of cut, primarily because clients often return seeking such consistency.
- Be Fair: Customers like to pay for value. If the cut isn’t exactly right or didn’t meet expectations, perhaps an adjustment in price is warranted – and the client may return.
The American Barber Association is the industry leader in providing information, education, recognition and advocacy for barbers and barbershops in America.
