In the barbering industry, playing it safe and keeping things the same can be the riskiest move of all. Styles evolve, tech advances and customer expectations soar higher each year. Staying sharp isn't just about your shears; it's about your skills in business. Continuous learning and careful planning are essential for barbershop owners aiming for success. Check out these books to ensure your shop isn't just cutting hair but leading the pack in 2024.

The Best Business Books for Barbers in 2024

"Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap... and Others Don't" by Jim Collins

From Trimming to Triumph

This book explains how good companies become great and outshine their competitors. For you, as a barbershop owner, it's about identifying what pushes you beyond the average. With compelling examples, Jim Collins drives home the point: find what makes your shop stand out and relentlessly pursue excellence in it.

"The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It" by Michael E. Gerber

Crafting a Business, Beyond Cutting Hair

Michael Gerber shatters the illusion that being a skilled barber automatically translates into running a successful business. He emphasizes the importance of systems and processes. For your shop, it's about turning daily tasks into a consistent experience for customers — whether you're behind the chair or not.

"Built to Last: Successful Habits of Visionary Companies" by Jim Collins and Jerry I. Porras

Foundations for the Future

Drawing insights from companies that have withstood the test of time, "Built to Last: Successful Habits of Visionary Companies" showcases the value of clear values and bold visions. For your barbershop, upholding core values can transform a humble shop into a community staple.

"The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses" by Eric Ries

Efficiency is Key

"The Lean Startup" introduces the concept of continuous innovation to optimize and adapt your services based on customer feedback. It’s about creating a cycle of learning what the clients love, doubling down on it, and eliminating what falls flat. The aim is to maximize value while minimizing waste.

"Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business" by Gino Wickman

Grow with Intention

Barbershop owners, it’s time to get serious. "Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business" gives you the tools to clarify your vision and align your efforts. With Wickman’s Entrepreneurial Operating System, you'll not just set goals but make them a reality. This means evolving from spontaneous decisions to strategic growth.

"Measure What Matters: Online Tools for Understanding Customers, Social Media, Engagement, and Key Relationships" by Katie Delahaye Paine

The Proof is in the Numbers

This book teaches you the art and science of measuring customer engagement and relationships. Strategic measurement can help you understand your customers' needs and drive more foot traffic to your barbershop. By tracking the right data, you're making informed decisions that can elevate your business from surviving to thriving.

Elevate your Barber Business in the New Year

As you step into 2024, remember that your barbershop’s success isn’t only about the cuts you offer but the strategic steps you take. These books provide actionable insights and proven strategies to help you navigate the choppy waters of small business ownership and come out ahead. With the proper blueprint, your brand can be more than a barbershop — it can be a local legend.