1) Unsanitary Conditions
I'm a big stickler for cleanliness. On your next visit, look around and observe how sanitary the shop is. Was the floor swept before you sat down? Did your haircutter use a clean comb (as opposed to one already laying on the counter)? Are the operator's clippers or shears free of other client's hair? Did your barber or stylist place a neck strip or clean towel around you neck before putting the cape on you? Did your barber remove the straight razor from a sanitizer rather than using one already laying on the counter? These are a few basic sanitary issues that can clue you in to how well your shop and haircutter are following sanitary regulations. Barbershops and salons can spread diseases and infections such as ringworm, hepatitis, lice, and impetigo (just to name a few) by using improperly sanitized combs, brushes, clippers, and razors. If your answer was "no" to any or all of these questions, fire your barber or stylist.
2) Sloppy Work
Next time you leave your barber or stylist, when you get home take a good look at the work. Stand in front of your bathroom mirror with a hand mirror and check out the cut. Is the haircut free of visible lines? Are the sideburns and neckline even? Is the outlining clean and crisp? Is everything laying as it should (especially around the crown)? These are all things to look for. If your answer was "no" to any or all of these questions, fire your barber or stylist.
3) Unfocused Attention
While you are receiving service, is your haircutter guilty of talking on the phone, texting, or otherwise not giving you undivided attention? If so, fire your barber or stylist.
4) Consistently Running Behind
Certainly, there will be times when your barber or stylist may be running behind on your appointment -- every head and client is different, and there will sometimes be issues that cause delays. That said, most of us behind the chair know our speed and abilities, so instances of running significantly behind should be rare. If it seems your haircutter is always harried and behind, it may be time to fire your barber or stylist.
5) Lack of Interest
When was the last time your barber or stylist suggested a new style or told you about a new product? Does the person cutting your hair seem more interested in talking about his latest drama than he is in listening to you? It is a haircutter's job to listen to you and recommend options haircuts and products that will help you get the most out of your hair and keep you looking your best. Not doing so is just bad service. So, if you are stuck in a rut (at least as far as your hair is concerned), it may be time to fire your barber or stylist.
Many of us get stuck going to the same person cut after cut because it's comfortable and we're hesitant to try someone new. Sometimes it's easier to stick to the devil we know than the saint we don't. Doing so may result in us not always looking our best, so if your barber or stylist is guilty of any of the above offenses, take a leap of faith and try someone new. You may be glad you did!
