Barbers
Overview
Barbers are skilled professionals who cut, style, and trim hair while also shaping beards and mustaches to help people look their best. They use various tools like clippers, scissors, and blow dryers, while also maintaining clean workspaces and sterilizing equipment for safety. This creative job requires strong people skills as barbers consult with clients about their desired looks and often build lasting relationships with regular customers. Many barbers complete vocational training programs and can work in traditional barbershops, salons, or even start their own businesses.
Did you know?
All states require barbers to complete formal training programs and pass licensing examinations to practice legally.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$43,078.89 Avg/yr
Growth
Fast Growing
Top Skill
Negotiation
Key Responsibilities
- Clean and sterilize scissors, combs, clippers, and other instruments.
- Shampoo hair.
- Curl, color, or straighten hair, using special chemical solutions and equipment.
- Provide face, neck, and scalp massages.
- Clean work stations and sweep floors.
- Suggest treatments to alleviate hair problems.
- Perform clerical and administrative duties such as keeping records, paying bills, and hiring and supervising personnel.
- Stay informed of the latest styles and hair care techniques.
- Shape and trim beards and moustaches, using scissors.
- Recommend and sell lotions, tonics, or other cosmetic supplies.
- Provide skin care and nail treatments.
- Question patrons regarding desired services and haircut styles.
- Cut and trim hair according to clients' instructions or current hairstyles, using clippers, combs, hand-held blow driers, and scissors.
- Keep card files on clientele, recording notes of work done, products used and fees charged after each visit.
- Apply lather and shave beards or neck and temple hair contours, using razors.
- Drape and pin protective cloths around customers' shoulders.
- Order supplies.
- Record services provided on cashiers' tickets or receive payment from customers.
Career Considerations
State Licensing Requirements
All states require barbers to complete formal training programs and pass licensing examinations to practice legally.
Income Variability
Earnings fluctuate significantly based on location, clientele base, and whether working as an employee or business owner.
Physical Demands
The profession requires prolonged standing and repetitive hand movements, which can lead to musculoskeletal strain over time.