How to Hire a Barber: The Skills-Based Approach
Find barbers who can actually cut — not just talk about cutting.
Why Barber Hiring Is Different
Barbering is pure skill. Either you can execute a clean fade or you can't. Either clients rebook or they don't.
Yet traditional hiring ignores this:
- Résumés list "5 years experience" but don't show quality
- Interviews test conversation skills — not cutting skills
- Portfolios can be fake or show only best work
- Trial shifts are risky — one bad cut costs a client
---
What to Look for in a Barber
Technical Skills
- Fade quality: Seamless blending, consistent gradient
- Line work: Sharp edges, clean hairlines
- Scissor work: Even cuts, proper technique
- Beard shaping: Symmetry, attention to detail
Soft Skills
- Client communication: Consultation ability, understanding requests
- Speed: Can they deliver quality under time pressure?
- Professionalism: Cleanliness, station organization, appearance
Business Fit
- Style alignment: Does their work match your shop's aesthetic?
- Reliability: History of showing up on time?
- Team fit: Can they work alongside your current barbers?
Skill Video Prompts for Barbers
Ask candidates to submit short videos demonstrating:
1. Fade Demonstration
> "Record yourself performing a mid fade on a client or mannequin. Show your blending technique and explain your approach."What to watch for:
- Smooth gradient transitions
- Proper clipper angles
- Efficient movements
- Clear explanation of technique
2. Line-Up/Edge Work
> "Show your line-up technique. Focus on the hairline and temples."What to watch for:
- Crisp, straight lines
- Symmetry
- Steady hands
- Attention to natural hairline
3. Client Consultation
> "Record a mock consultation with an imaginary client who wants 'something new.' How do you guide them?"What to watch for:
- Active listening cues
- Asking clarifying questions
- Offering recommendations
- Building rapport
The Barber Hiring Process
Step 1: Skill Video Submission
Replace the résumé requirement with video prompts. A 60-second fade video tells you everything a résumé can't.Step 2: Portfolio Review
If they have Instagram or a portfolio, review their work. Look for consistency, not just highlights.Step 3: Verification
Verify their cosmetology license and ID. In regulated states, this isn't optional.> Learn more: [What "Verified" Actually Means](/blog/what-verified-actually-means)
Step 4: In-Person Observation
For final candidates, invite them to cut in your shop (paid trial). Now you're evaluating fit, not skill — you already know they can cut.---
Red Flags in Barber Hiring
| Red Flag | Why It Matters | |----------|----------------| | Refuses to submit video | May be hiding skill gaps | | Only shows before/after photos | Can't verify they did the work | | Inconsistent portfolio quality | Best work ≠ typical work | | Can't explain their technique | May not understand fundamentals | | Vague about license status | Potential legal/liability issues |
---
FAQ: Hiring Barbers
Should I require a cosmetology license?
Depends on your state. Some states require licenses for barbers; others don't. Always verify compliance with local regulations.How long should a skill video be?
60-90 seconds for a fade demonstration. Long enough to see technique, short enough to respect everyone's time.What if they don't have clients to film?
They can use a mannequin or a friend. The technique matters, not the model.Should I pay for trial shifts?
Yes. Always pay for trial work. It's professional, legal, and shows you value their time.---
Getting Started
Hiring barbers doesn't have to be guesswork. With [skills-based hiring](/blog/skills-based-hiring), you see the fade before you make the offer.
[Vetano](/) helps barbershops find verified, skilled barbers through video demonstrations and ID verification.
Find barbers who can actually cut. [See how it works →](/#how-it-works)