The Haircut That Changed My Career

Don’t get too lost on social. It’s really a simple perspective.

There are many variations of a popular haircut that will forever trend in the barbering industry: the fade.

There's a common belief that fades are straightforward and "anyone can do them." To some degree, this is true—as anyone, with sufficient time and practice, can master a fade.

So, how did this haircut change my life? From my first day in a barbershop, perfecting a fade was the goal. Now, entering my 12th year, I've performed thousands of fades. The simplicity of what a fade represents has evolved into a cornerstone of my work, my brand, and a keen interest among those eager to learn. It's the foundation of my education, and I adore it for its simplicity and effectiveness—a technique that will never fade away. This is what made me stand out.

Fades are the backbone of the barbering industry. Excelling in this skill can mean the difference between doing 30 haircuts a day versus 7-10. My experience spans from cutting in Southern California's Orange County to now in Los Angeles. Focusing on what I enjoyed—fading—brought a particularity to my work with clients, who were willing to wait longer and pay more. They discovered my work through social media, local business listings on Yelp, and word of mouth.

For anyone new to this industry, my advice is to explore all types of cuts, from short to long, and do a lot of them. You'll find what works for you, and what you enjoy the most will attract clients. Don't feel pressured to conform to online trends. Embrace your passions, and let them guide you. People are drawn to genuine enthusiasm and energy. Remember, motivation follows action; if you're not passionate about a particular style, it might not be for you.

Barbering today offers a variety of paths, thanks to social media. You have classic barbershop cuts, trendy crossover styles, and creative color techniques.

Classic styles include number 2-3 on top with a fade, Caesar cuts, side parts, and pompadours. Trendy crossover cuts feature mullets, textured crops, and brushbacks, requiring advanced shearing techniques. Color adds another dimension, from buzz cut designs to mixing haircuts, fades, and colors, extending service times significantly. The convergence of barbering and cosmetology is creating new learning opportunities and expanding service offerings.

There used to be a stigma about barbers charging "too much" for "simple cuts," but mastery in simplicity—trust, consistency, and attention to detail—is highly valued.

In Los Angeles, fade prices vary significantly:

- Standard barbershops: $40-$60

- Mid-tier: $60-$150

- Influencer barbers: $150+

These rates have evolved from the standard $20, indicating a growing appreciation for quality.

Pricing and costs can vary by location. At my last barbershop, we charged $50, with a weekly rent of $300-$350, requiring around 28 cuts a week to break even before tips. At a men’s salon, a men's cut was $75 with a 50/50 commission split, offering a less stressful financial model for newcomers.

Every setting has taught me valuable lessons about client perspectives on pricing.

So what do clients consider when deciding to spend more on a haircut?

1. Make the Experience Great: People are willing to pay more when they feel special and cared for.

2. Offer Something Extra: Beyond just a haircut, think about offering services that add more value. This could be advanced styling, personalized consultations, or premium products.

3. Know Your Customers: Not all customers want or can afford the same services. Offer different levels of service to meet the diverse needs and budgets of your clients.

4. Outcome Focused: Consumers are not just paying for a service; they're investing in an outcome. Whether it's a particular look achieved through a haircut or the confidence that comes with it, the focus on tangible results can make premium pricing more appealing.

5. Inflation and Costs: The price of hair services has been on the rise, influenced by factors like inflation. This underlines a broader trend where consumers might be more understanding of price increases for services that reflect rising operational costs.

6. Leverage Your Social Network: Clients are more likely to pay a premium for services from barbers with a strong social media presence. A big social network can indicate popularity, expertise, and trustworthiness. It shows you're not just a barber but a recognized brand. Sharing your work, happy customer testimonials, and engaging with your audience online can build your reputation and justify higher prices.

Finding Your Signature Style: The Power of Specialization

In a world filled with diverse tastes and preferences, finding your niche can significantly elevate your craft and business. For me, it was mastering the art of fading. This seemingly simple technique was not just about cutting hair—it was about precision, understanding gradients, and delivering on each client's version of how a fade fit their canvas. Fading became my signature style and joy to share, a skill that set me apart in a crowded industry.

Why specialize? Specialization allows you to:

Deepen Your Expertise: Focusing on a specific style or technique lets you refine your skills to a level of mastery that general practice cannot. This deep dive into your chosen specialty can make you the go-to barber for that particular service.

Build a Unique Brand: When you're known for a particular style or service, you're not just a barber; you become a brand associated with that specialty. This recognition can attract clients specifically seeking your expertise.

Enhance Customer Satisfaction: Specializing means you can offer an unparalleled level of service and results in your area of focus. Happy clients are more likely to return and refer others to you, helping grow your business.

Justify Premium Pricing: Expertise in a specialized service can command higher prices. When clients understand they're not just paying for a haircut but an expert service, they're often willing to pay more.

Finding your style, like my journey with fading, might seem intimidating or repetitive at first. But it starts with exploration. Try different techniques, listen to your clients, and pay attention to what excites you. Over time, you'll find that sweet spot where passion meets demand.

Remember, specialization doesn't mean you're limited to only offering one type of service. Instead, it's about building a foundation of excellence that attracts clients and sets the stage for a long-lasting career. Whether it's the precise art of fading or another technique entirely, discovering and mastering your signature style can be the key to unlocking new levels of success and satisfaction in your barbering career.

While some barbers thrive on the energy of cutting numerous heads a day, enjoying the fast pace and maximizing their clientele, it's essential to acknowledge that this path isn't one-size-fits-all. For individuals like myself, who have passions extending beyond the chair—such as content creation, brand building, or education—finding ways to streamline our schedule becomes crucial.

This approach enables a more manageable schedule, allowing us to dedicate time to other areas that fuel our growth and satisfaction, both personally and professionally. It’s crucially important to note: to avoid burnout, it’s necessary to pursue career strategies that not only cater to your clients but also nurture your personal creativity.

Ultimately, the choice to diversify your skill set or specialize should reflect your personal goals, interests, and lifestyle preferences. There's a ton of value in being a versatile barber who can serve a wide range of clients. Similarly, there's a satisfaction in becoming a master of a specific style or technique, especially if it opens up opportunities to explore other passions at the same time.

Whether you're the barber who thrives on high volume or someone who seeks to balance cutting with other creative endeavors, what matters most is that your career brings you fulfillment and aligns with your overall goals.

Something to think about!

Have an amazing week!

Sof!