What should barbers do prior to starting a service on a new client?

Conducting a thorough consultation before starting a service on a new client is essential for several reasons. The primary purpose of the consultation is to understand the client's desires, preferences, and expectations. This conversation allows the barber to gather vital information about the client's hair type, lifestyle, and any past experiences with haircuts or styles that the client has had. Furthermore, it provides an opportunity to assess the client's hair condition and any specific needs they might have, such as sensitivity to certain products or particular concerns about their hair.

A thorough consultation also builds rapport and trust between the barber and the client, which is fundamental in the service industry. Clients often feel more comfortable and valued when their barber takes the time to listen to them and discuss their options. High-quality consultations can also help prevent misunderstandings and ensure that the final result aligns with the client’s expectations, ultimately leading to higher satisfaction and repeat business.

Other options, such as beginning the haircut immediately or merely asking about previous haircuts, do not address the broad and deep understanding of both the client's needs and desires that a consultation achieves. Checking the availability of hair products, while important, is secondary to ensuring that the service provided aligns with what the client is looking for. Overall, a thorough consultation is a critical