How to Find A New Barber or Stylist

1. Ask a Guy.  This is the single easiest way method you can use for how to find a new barber or stylist.  Just ask another guy with a haircut you like where he got it cut.  He won’t think you’re creepy and he’ll probably be flattered that you complimented him on this cut.
2. Get a Trim. Not sure about your new hair cutter? Get a light trim before you commit to a full cut. If the trim turns out badly, your whole look won’t be ruined and you can go someplace else to have it fixed.
3. Watch out for Yelp. Just because a barber has lots of bad (or good) reviews online, take a moment to dig a little deeper.  If shop has only three stars, but most of the review are bad because their receptionist is a witch or parking is a hassle, that doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t get an amazing haircut.  On the flip side, if all the reviews are raving (especially if they are in a short time period), chances are the shop or barber put ’em up to it.   Also, take a look at the photos — often that will tell you if the cuts are great.  You can also search for barbers in your area on the internet and check out photos of their work.  
4. Avoid Stereotyping. Keep in mind that age, gender, race, and years of experience have nothing to do with real talent — real hair cutting talent transcends most age, race, and gender barriers, so keep an open mind.  Don’t be one of those “I’d rather have a man/woman cut my hair”.  Let the work, not the sex/age/race. speak for itself.
5. Avoid the Chains. I’m probably going to get some hate emails about this, but most chain store stylists suck.  Really.  A chain shop is a great place for a barber or stylist to gain some experience when they are starting out, but if they are any good, they typically don’t stick around long. This is because a great barber or stylist can earn a much better living working for a better establishment or going out on their own. Stick with your locally owned shops — find an upscale barbershop or men’s salon (preferably one where you can actually walk in and meet the owner). You’ll certainly pay a bit more, but isn’t that worth it to maintain a great look? 

CLEAN HAIR IS A HAPPY HAIRCUT!

Your hair

I would consider this one of the most important pieces of knowledge to pass on to a patron.

The best haircut is going to be made possible when you show up with clean and dry hair. Having product in your hair makes it difficult to cut, gunks up the barbers tools, sticks to everything, and frustrates every barber at least the slightest amount. This is especially true if you use a petroleum based pomade such as Murray’s or any of the other greasy products out there. The lack of product in your hair can result in a better cut.

If you need to have something in your hair the day you are getting a cut, try to use a very light hold gel that the barber can comb through easily. Avoid wearing a hat of any kind on the day of your cut. Hats will create an indention around the head that makes blending more difficult. This will be especially true if you put the hat on right after you get out of the shower.

Your barber will probably have some product on hand to style your hair after your cut, and in many cases will be able to assist you in how to style your hair best.