In my years as a Barber Shop owner/practitioner, I unequivocally affirm that the impact of hiring and training apprentices on my business has been nothing short of phenomenal. The answer to the question of whether apprenticeships have a positive impact is a resounding YES! However, it's important to qualify this statement based on my extensive experience navigating the challenges of employee turnover and its adverse effects on the bottom line.
In the United States, a barber license is now a prerequisite for practicing the trade in every state. Traditionally, aspiring barbers had to invest significant time and money in barber school, with costs ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. Additionally, juggling another job to cover living expenses during school was a common challenge. The real struggle, though, began after graduation when finding a Master Barber willing to take on a fresh graduate was akin to searching for a "pot of gold at the end of the rainbow."
Back when I entered the industry, securing a chair in a shop without an existing client base meant spending a considerable amount of time doing menial tasks, far from the satisfying career one envisions. Fast forward to today, and being a barber is finally gaining recognition as a fashion-forward career, where a simple $10 haircut has evolved into a high-end hairstyle. However, does your business plan align with the "In and Out" budget level, or have you cultivated an image of a place that offers the latest styles and exceptional customer service?
To realize your business goals of providing top-notch customer service and staying at the forefront of hairstyling trends, hiring and training apprentices is a strategic move. Atarashii is a leader in this domain, providing a comprehensive educational program based on the nationally acclaimed Pivot Point systems. With Atarashii, your apprentice's progress through the state's educational requirements is monitored and coached by a professionally licensed Atarashii coach, all conducted online on their own time.
Teaching an apprentice goes beyond imparting clinical and scientific lessons; it's about instilling your shop's values, customer service ideals, and the hands-on services that define your business. Atarashii takes care of the theoretical aspects, leaving you the enjoyable task of guiding your apprentice in translating that knowledge into practical skills within a shop setting.
While the thought of teaching complex skills may initially seem daunting, Atarashii's structured program makes the process seamless. You have the opportunity to mentor a motivated individual, shaping them into a professional barber who not only meets but exceeds your business goals. Having experienced both traditional hiring and apprenticeships, I can confidently say that the revolving door of employees came to a halt when I embraced the apprenticeship model. I encourage you to explore this transformative approach for the benefit of your business.
