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CAREER PROFILE

Barbers

Barbers help people look and feel their best by cutting and trimming hair, shaping beards and moustaches, and sometimes shampooing, styling, or treating hair. The job also involves talking with clients, following their preferences, and using good customer service skills. Barbers may book appointments, order supplies, and even train apprentices. If you enjoy working with people, paying attention to detail, and using business and communication skills, this career could be a great fit.

EDUCATION ROUTEMultiple pathways
WORK STYLEVaries by role
CAREER FIELDMarketing, Sales and Service

HOW TO GET THERE

Typical pathway

A typical path for a Canadian secondary-school student is to finish high school, then get hands-on training in barbering or a related hairstyling program, or start as an apprentice in a barbershop if an employer offers that route. Students often build early experience by practising basic cutting and grooming skills, learning about hair and beard care, and developing strong customer service and communication. Some barbers also learn to book appointments, order supplies, and support or train apprentices. Exact training and any local requirements can vary by province, employer, or the type of barbering work.

THE WORK

What you may do

Legacy duties

  • Cut and trim hair according to client's instructions or preferences
  • Shave and trim beards and moustaches
  • May shampoo hair and provide other hair treatment, such as waving, straightening and tinting and may also provide scalp conditioning massages
  • May book appointments and order supplies
  • May train and supervise other barbers and barber apprentices.

SKILLS TO BUILD

Skills used in this Career

Business ProceduresCustomer ServiceInterpersonal skills

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