
Barbers, take in guests of honor
And be guests too.

And be guests too.
As barbers, we keep our chairs and our hearts open to the cherished guests that sit with us. I feel that one of the greatest gifts of the trade is when that energy is returned to us when another shop welcomingly opens their doors and arms.
Being a barber blesses us with the ability to always have work and a community to connect with, no matter where we are in the world. Even through spoken language barriers, this act of service can be performed with the universal language; the language without words. A smile on a guest’s face after a haircut confirms a job well done.
If you’re a new barber, here are some reasons why you should be pursuing guest spots in other cities.
Doing a guest spot in a new city provides the opportunity to make friends in new places and reconnect if you are a well-traveled barber. Some of my favorite moments have been when I’ve traveled to a place I have never been before but seen so many familiar faces. From fellow barbers to cherished guests, you will make lifelong friends regardless of the distance.
Awe is defined as the sense of wonder and amazement that occurs when someone is inspired by great knowledge, beauty, sublimity or might. When choosing where to guest spot, I have always gone to cities I want to visit to make a trip out of it. Inspiration goes full circle when those who have forgotten about the hidden gems of their own backyard show you new sights.
If you want to grow, you need to learn to be comfortable in the uncomfortable. Believe me when I say new working conditions, new faces, and differing styles from city to city will take you outside of your comfort zone. Strive and thrive.
The act of reaching out alone can be overwhelming and perhaps you don’t know where to begin. Start by narrowing down cities that interest you and head over to Squire’s app that shows the barbershops in the area. See something that catches your vibe? Put your best face forward and pitch yourself. If you don’t ask, the answer will always be no.
If you’re a barber that’s just starting out, or a seasoned vet, try your hand at the competition circuit. You can always learn something new.
Photo via Ted’s Grooming Room
For the uninitiated, it may come as a surprise to learn that a trip to the barbershop is so much more than a trim or cut. The barbershop is a key social hub where men can catch up with friends, talk sports, and unwind. And, of course, nothing beats the feeling of a crisp line […]
Read this article
You’re a bonafide beard-grooming guru, a wizard when it comes to fades—but the pathway to operational success for your blossoming barber shop business isn’t built on scissors and clippers alone. In order to launch and sustain a thriving establishment, you’ll need it to be rooted in a detailed business plan. Your barber shop business plan […]
Read this article
Barbers are primarily known for two things: a great haircut and a straight razor shave. But any barber business seeking the coveted title of Neighborhood Barbershop knows auxiliary services besides a haircut that elevates your customer’s self-care will inflate the number of bookings you receive each day. It’s time barbers step up to the plate […]
Read this article
Maybe you’ve been the go-to individual when it comes to giving your friends the tightest fades, the person they come to with questions like whether the quiff or the side part is more their style. Then, it dawns on you. You could turn your passion into a career and earn an income with your expertise—and […]
Read this article