Achieving a Successful Trip to the Barbers

Getting your hair cut or beard groomed is a monthly (or however regularly you visit your barber) ritual that causes a degree of panic and confusion for many gents out there, with some even likening it to visiting the dentist (excruciating). Then there are those who compare it with a sensual massage (kinda weird...) because it's a place to de-stress and relax. Don't even get me started on those who see it as a therapy session...

Whatever your perception, I'd confidently label going to the barbers as a marmite event.

The barber's chair...dreaded by some as much as the dentist's chair!

If we ignore the obvious reasons listed by the dislikers (sitting still for what can feel like an age, after enduring the exasperating wait in a typically unorganised queueing system we seldom find in barbershops) it got me wondering what else is so bad about the experience to cause people to loathe getting their haircut?

As I began sifting through instagram, an advertising playground for modern day barbers, and laid eyes on some of the horror shows and crimes against grooming that barbers had committed at the expense of their poor customer's barnet, it dawned on me why this routine task is frowned upon by so many.

So, how do you ensure you Always get what you came for?

So I took it upon myself to list some simple rules that may just make your grooming experience that little bit better...

Always treat your visit to the barbers like hanging out with a mate, which I know sounds much easier said than done but if you’re familiar with the person cutting your hair, and you can both relax during the appointment, you’re laughing (hopefully both literally and metaphorically).

Just to clarify, what I mean by this is locate an individual whom you get along with, enjoy chatting to and most importantly, who does a good job with your hair and listens to your request. I've also found the more friendly and engaged I am when getting my haircut, the more attentive and meticulous the barber is.

In case you hadn’t noticed, many hairdressers love to chat, so instead of just nodding and saying ‘mmm, yeah, totally,’ Always actively engage in the chat and ask them questions. It’s the polite thing to do for one, and secondly, most people love human interaction - it creates a positive atmosphere, which in turn creates positive output.

I have one example where the barber in question only seems to remember to fade my beard with my side burns (something I Always ask for) if I actively engage with him…it’s almost like a test!

Never let them pick up their tools, until you both have a clear idea of what you want to achieve.

Now, don’t get me wrong, as soon as you sit down in that chair and have received a coffee (Top Tip: be careful with coffee - it’s a long time to sit in one place jacked from a double macchiato), beer, water etc. you’re in control and your wishes or desires with regards to your hair and beard are of paramount importance.

Sounds simple but the amount of chaps who lose their voice in the barber’s chair is crazy.

I would Always advise you have a five minute catch up before taking a seat, firstly on a personal level and then following that, a brief consultation regarding how you want your hair cut, and any ideas he/she may have for you.

Never be scared to say no if a barber is forthcoming a left-wing approach. Yes, they know you’re hair but you know what you want. Once you start 'vibing' off one another, the magic really starts.

Also, once they’ve cut your hair and they appear finished, don’t just sit there meekly and nod.

Always compliment the cut if you’re happy with it but Never just say ‘thanks that looks great,’ when really you’re dying inside.

The goal is to get to a place where you’re looking forward to getting the perfect haircut for you and they’re looking forward to you sitting in front of them and having a friendly chat, whilst they give you their best service.

It’s a win:win, and they’re the best kind of situations.

Header image: Photo by Dan Gold on Unsplash