A Career in Barbering
Are you looking for a career with stability and longevity? Do you have the drive and
creative spirit to own your own business?
Look no further. Barbering – an occupation steeped in tradition is taking on a fresh and modern look while staying true to its roots in history – is the career for you.
The profession of barbering can be dated as far back as 6,000 years ago when Egyptian royalty were serviced by barbers. Nowadays you can find hip barbershops decorated as “chop shops” with tool benches for their work spaces and AC/DC playing over the radio system. You can also find many shops true to tradition with large leather barber chairs and the traditional barber pole spinning outside the front door. With barbershops located in cities across the world, you can find the place that is right for you. Or more exciting yet, open your own shop. You can provide the look, feel and service to the clientele that is right for you.
In addition to various barbershop atmospheres, clientele and barbers themselves are changing everyday. Barbering is not just for men anymore. According to the Ed Jeffers Barber Museum, by 1985 almost half of all barbers where women. Also, clientele can range from the young to the elderly; the affluent to the unemployed; male and female. In both good and bad economies, everyone can use a good barber in their neighborhood.
The Ohio State Barber Board wants barbers to offer the best service available and to be able to work on many different hairstyles. An Ohio barber’s license goes beyond cutting hair and hot lather razor shaves; students learn to give facials and to color, relax and perm hair. And students can achieve these necessary skills in less than one year!
Ohio barber students are required to attend an accredited 1800 hour school prior to taking the state examination. Full time schools give students the opportunity to complete their schooling and testing in less than one year. A well established school intends to prepare students for not only passing the State Barber Board exam, but also establishing themselves as successful barbers. Additionally, schools will offer advanced training for licensed barbers seeking to improve their existing skill set or looking to become barber instructors.
When researching a potential school, ask the admissions office these questions: What is the student to teacher ratio? How diverse is the school’s clientele? What is the job placement rate of recent graduates? Ask the school for references.
Barbering is a great opportunity for an individual with any level of experience. Many students start off without ever holding a pair of shears. Others have been cutting family member’s hair for years and have decided to finally make their hobby and established career. Whatever your level of experience in haircutting and styling, a qualified school will help teach you the skills necessary to succeed.
The opportunities in the field of barbering are endless. Take your time to find the school that is the best fit for you. Practice your techniques and learn what a client needs and wants and you will succeed as a barber. Good luck and get cutting!
Editorial content provided by Allstate Hairstyling & Barber College, Inc.
