Barbers
Overview
Barbers are skilled professionals who specialise in cutting, trimming, and styling hair, as well as grooming beards and providing traditional shaving services. They use modern tools like electric clippers, professional scissors, and quality styling products to create the perfect look for their clients. This creative profession requires excellent customer service skills and attention to detail. Many barbers work in traditional barbershops or modern salons, with opportunities to build their own client base or even open their own business.
Did you know?
In Australia, you'll need to complete a Certificate III in Barbering through TAFE or a registered training organisation. This typically takes 1-2 years and includes both classroom learning and hands-on practice in real barbershops.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$62,000 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Time Management
Key Responsibilities
- Providing advice on hair care, beauty products and hairstyles
- Shampooing hair and conditioning scalps
- Colouring, straightening and permanently waving hair with chemical solutions
- Cutting hair with scissors, clippers and razors
- Styling hair into dreadlocks and braids and adding hair extensions
- Shaving and trimming beards and moustaches
- Cleaning work areas and sanitising instruments
- Arranging appointments and collecting payments
- May clean, colour, cut and style wigs and hairpieces
Career Considerations
Training and Certification Requirements
In Australia, you'll need to complete a Certificate III in Barbering through TAFE or a registered training organisation. This typically takes 1-2 years and includes both classroom learning and hands-on practice in real barbershops.
Creative and Entrepreneurial Opportunities
Barbering offers excellent opportunities for creativity and self-employment. Many barbers eventually open their own shops, allowing them to build a personal brand and develop long-term relationships with clients in their community.
Physical and Social Aspects of the Job
This career involves standing for long periods and requires good hand-eye coordination. Barbers also need strong communication skills as they interact with diverse clients daily and often serve as trusted confidants in their communities.