3 Barber Interview Questions and Answers

Introduction

This question is important as it assesses your problem-solving skills and ability to manage client expectations in a barbershop setting.

How to answer

• Begin by clearly outlining the challenging request and the client's expectations.
• Explain the steps you took to understand the client's vision.
• Describe any techniques or tools you used to achieve the desired result.
• Discuss how you communicated with the client throughout the process.
• Conclude with the outcome and any feedback you received.

What not to say

• Avoid being negative about the client's request or preferences.
• Don't focus solely on technical skills without discussing client interaction.
• Refrain from mentioning situations where you lost a client due to a miscommunication.
• Avoid vague answers that don't provide specific examples.

Example answer

“Once, a client requested an intricate undercut design that they had seen online, but they were unsure about how it would look on them. I took the time to understand their face shape and hair texture, suggesting adjustments to make it more flattering. I sketched the design on paper to visualize it better. The final result was a modern look that the client loved, and they were thrilled to receive compliments from their friends.”

Introduction

This question evaluates your commitment to professional development and staying relevant in the barbering industry.

How to answer

• Mention specific resources you use, such as industry magazines, online tutorials, or social media platforms.
• Discuss any workshops, courses, or certifications you have attended.
• Explain how you apply new techniques to your work.
• Highlight any networking you do with other professionals in the field.
• Share how you educate clients about trends and styles.

What not to say

• Indicating that you do not follow trends or changes in the industry.
• Focusing only on personal style rather than professional development.
• Failing to mention specific resources or examples of ongoing learning.
• Suggesting that you rely solely on past experiences without seeking new knowledge.

Example answer

“I regularly follow top hairstylists on Instagram and YouTube for inspiration and tutorials. I also subscribe to barbering magazines like 'American Salon'. Recently, I attended a workshop on modern fades and texture techniques, which I incorporated into my styling repertoire. I enjoy sharing these trends with clients, helping them choose styles that are both trendy and suitable for them.”

Introduction

This question assesses your customer service skills and ability to manage conflicts, which are crucial for maintaining a positive environment in a barbershop.

How to answer

• Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your response
• Clearly describe the situation and the customer's issue
• Explain your approach to addressing the customer's concerns
• Detail the outcome and how it improved the customer's experience
• Mention any follow-up actions taken to ensure customer satisfaction

What not to say

• Avoid blaming the customer or external factors for the issue
• Don’t provide vague answers without specific details
• Refrain from discussing how you would ignore difficult customers
• Avoid focusing only on the negative aspects of the interaction

Example answer

“In my previous role at a local barbershop in Berlin, a customer was unhappy with their haircut. I listened attentively to their concerns, apologized for the inconvenience, and offered a complimentary touch-up. The customer appreciated my responsiveness and left satisfied, even returning for future appointments. This experience reinforced the importance of active listening and empathy in customer service.”

Introduction

This question evaluates your commitment to professional development and staying current with industry trends, which is essential for a senior barber.

How to answer

• Discuss specific resources you use, such as industry publications, social media, or workshops
• Mention any professional networks or communities you engage with
• Explain how you apply new techniques or trends in your work
• Share examples of how staying updated has benefited your clients
• Highlight your willingness to continuously learn and adapt

What not to say

• Claiming you don’t need to follow trends as your style is timeless
• Not providing specific examples or resources
• Showing reluctance to change or adapt to new techniques
• Ignoring the importance of client preferences in trend adoption

Example answer

“I actively follow barbering influencers on Instagram and subscribe to industry magazines like 'BarberEVO'. I also attend local workshops to learn new techniques. Recently, I adopted a trending fade technique that my clients love, and it has helped me expand my clientele. I believe that staying updated not only enhances my skills but also keeps my services relevant and appealing.”

Introduction

This question evaluates your customer service skills and ability to manage challenging interpersonal situations, which are crucial in the barbering profession.

How to answer

• Use the STAR method to structure your response
• Describe the client’s concerns and why they were difficult
• Explain how you approached the situation and communicated with the client
• Detail the steps you took to resolve their issues
• Share the outcome and what you learned from the experience

What not to say

• Blaming the client without taking responsibility
• Failing to provide a specific example
• Ignoring the importance of customer service in your response
• Describing a situation where you escalated the problem instead of resolving it

Example answer

“Once, a client was unhappy with their haircut because it didn’t match the picture they showed me. I calmly listened to their concerns and offered to adjust the cut to better meet their expectations. I communicated throughout the process, making sure they felt involved. By the end, they were thrilled with the final result and even left a positive review. This taught me the importance of patience and active listening.”

Introduction

This question assesses your commitment to professional development and staying current in a fast-paced industry.

How to answer

• Mention specific resources you use, such as online courses, workshops, or industry magazines
• Discuss how you implement new techniques in your work
• Explain any networking strategies you engage in with other professionals
• Share your experience attending trade shows or barbering competitions
• Highlight any social media platforms you follow for inspiration

What not to say

• Claiming you don’t need to update your skills
• Only mentioning one method of learning
• Failing to connect learning to practical application
• Not mentioning the importance of trends in your industry

Example answer

“I regularly attend workshops and follow industry leaders on Instagram and YouTube to stay updated on the latest styles and techniques. I also subscribe to barbering magazines and frequently participate in local barber meet-ups to exchange ideas. Recently, I learned a new fade technique that I immediately started using in my shop, which has attracted new clients looking for trendy styles.”