Barbering isn’t a new profession, but it relies on new technology to meet shifting customer demands. While chatting with clients in the chair, you may hear how much they enjoy modern conveniences that help them save time and improve their lives. This may lead you to wonder, “which innovations can I use to become an even better barber?”
From virtual imaging and custom playlists to chemical technologies and smart technology, a few simple upgrades open the door to exciting new possibilities. Get the goods on using new tech to help your clients look and feel their best as you improve your shop.
Smart Tech
Smart home technology lets you control the lights, temperature, security system, and more from a mobile device. There’s no need to limit this capability to your home, especially because your barbershop may feel like your second home.
By installing smart technology in your shop, you automate routines. How much time would you save on opening the shop if you could switch the lights, adjust the temperature, and turn on the music without taking a single step? You could devote that extra free time to other important tasks.
To get the most out of smart systems, all the components must communicate with each other seamlessly. Check whether you have the right WiFI antenna or Ethernet switch for the tech you want. If you upgrade your antenna or switch, look for easy-to-install models with surge protection, so you can use clippers and other tools simultaneously without worrying about blowing a fuse.
Virtual Imaging
How many horror stories have you heard about terrible haircuts? Let your customers see themselves with a new style before you pick up your clippers and scissors.
Virtual imaging technology uses a camera to create an image of a person with their desired haircut. Programs come with a database of not just hairstyles, but eyeglasses, too. After all, some hairstyles and cuts look different when paired with eyeglasses or shades.
Imaging tech also helps you empower your clients by educating them on different hairstyles. Your barbering experience lets you understand when a particular cut or style may not work for a person’s facial features. Rather than only use words to explain why a beard style won’t look as great on a customer as they hope, use pictures and imaging tech to show what you mean.
Chemical and Physical Technologies
While clients look great when they step out of your chair, you may tangle with frizzing and static electricity while helping them look their best. Chemical and physical technology uses ceramic plates, active ion technology, and seamless brush bristles to overcome common hairstyling hurdles.
This innovation also comes in handy for color conditioning and processing. Special treatments and products use nanotechnology and heat adaptation to give clients a new hair color without sitting under a hairdryer. Digital controls and distribution technology spread heat evenly, better ensuring that hair doesn’t become dry or break easily because of intense heat.
Barbershop Management
How much time do you devote to inventory management, accounting, financial reporting, and payroll? While essential, these tasks can diminish the joy you derive from being a barber and business owner. Barbershop management programs automate these necessary tasks and free you up to tend to other matters.
Another great thing about this technology is that clients find it useful, too. They can check out your availability and book an appointment, even check-in and make contactless payments via barbershop management programs. You and your staff save time by not stopping what you’re doing to make a reservation.
One or two simple upgrades can have a huge impact on your shop and capabilities as a business owner. Consider which of the above innovations matches your shop’s brand, your professional goals, and your clientele’s lifestyles.
