how to find barbers to hire

3 min read 18-11-2024

Finding the right barbers to join your team is crucial for success. This guide will walk you through the process, from identifying your needs to onboarding your new hires. Whether you're opening a new barbershop or expanding your existing one, this comprehensive approach will help you attract and retain top talent.

Understanding Your Needs Before You Start Searching

Before diving into the search, take time to assess your barbershop's specific requirements. This planning is vital to avoid costly mistakes later.

1. Define Your Barbershop's Style and Target Audience

What kind of barbershop are you running? A traditional men's barbershop? A trendy unisex salon? Understanding your brand identity helps you attract barbers who align with your vision. Knowing your target audience—their age, style preferences, and budget—will help you find barbers who can cater to those needs.

2. Determine Your Budget and Compensation Structure

Establish a realistic budget for salaries and benefits. Research industry standards for barber pay in your area to ensure competitive compensation. Decide whether you’ll offer a salary, commission-based pay, or a hybrid model. Clearly define benefits like health insurance, paid time off, and continuing education opportunities.

3. List Necessary Skills and Experience

Outline the essential skills and experience you need. Do you need barbers specializing in classic cuts, modern styles, beard grooming, or specific techniques like fades or razor shaves? List any preferred certifications (like a barber license) or years of experience. This list helps filter candidates efficiently.

Effective Strategies for Finding Qualified Barbers

Once you’ve defined your needs, it's time to actively seek out qualified barbers. Here are several effective strategies:

1. Leverage Online Job Boards

Websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and industry-specific job boards (if any exist in your region) are excellent starting points. Craft a compelling job description highlighting your barbershop's culture, compensation, and benefits. Include keywords relevant to barbering to improve search visibility.

2. Network Within the Industry

Attend industry events, trade shows, and barbering competitions. Networking allows you to connect directly with talented barbers and learn about potential candidates through word-of-mouth. Don't underestimate the power of personal connections in this field.

3. Utilize Social Media

Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are great for showcasing your barbershop's brand and reaching potential candidates. Use relevant hashtags to attract attention. You might even find talented barbers showcasing their work on these platforms.

4. Post "Help Wanted" Signs Locally

A simple, well-placed "Help Wanted" sign in your barbershop or in nearby businesses can attract local talent. This strategy is particularly effective for reaching candidates who may not actively search online job boards.

The Interview Process: Selecting the Best Candidates

The interview process is critical in assessing candidates' skills, experience, and personality fit for your team.

1. Prepare a Structured Interview

Develop a structured interview process with pre-determined questions to ensure consistency and fairness across all candidates. Ask questions about their experience, techniques, customer service skills, and their approach to barbering.

2. Assess Technical Skills

Include a practical assessment where candidates demonstrate their skills. Ask them to perform a specific haircut or grooming task to evaluate their technical abilities and attention to detail. This hands-on evaluation is invaluable.

3. Evaluate Personality and Customer Service Skills

Observe candidates' interaction with you and potential "clients" during the interview process. Assess their communication skills, professionalism, and customer service approach. A friendly and skilled barber is an asset to your business.

4. Check References and Background

Thoroughly check references and conduct background checks to verify their experience, skills, and professional conduct. This step helps prevent potential issues down the road.

Onboarding Your New Barber

Once you've chosen the right candidate, a smooth onboarding process is essential for a successful start.

1. Provide Comprehensive Training

Offer thorough training on your barbershop’s policies, procedures, and any specific techniques or styles you want your barbers to follow. Ensure they understand your booking system, point-of-sale system, and customer service expectations.

2. Introduce Them to the Team

Introduce your new barber to the existing team. Encourage teamwork and collaboration to foster a positive work environment. A supportive team atmosphere contributes to employee satisfaction and retention.

3. Regular Check-ins and Feedback

Schedule regular check-ins to provide feedback and address any concerns. Open communication helps ensure your new barber feels supported and comfortable.

By following these steps, you can successfully find and hire talented barbers who will contribute to the success of your barbershop. Remember that building a strong team takes time and effort. But the reward of a well-trained, motivated staff is well worth the investment.