Principles & Practices

 
​Throughout my career, there has been considerable time spent analysing the entire process in an attempt to further refine every aspect of it. The goal here is to continue doing so until a time when this journey reaches its inevitable conclusion. For now, I wanted to put together a list of fundamental principles and practices. Each statement directly correlates to client contentment and consequently, continuing success. The list below, like everything else relating to my practice, will be revisited and amended over time.

Communication

1. First time clients will typically arrive nervous or anxious. The environment, communication, and service all need to be considered and supportive of this.
2. Never approach or touch an anxious client until they are sufficiently relaxed and confident in the process.
3. Never stand behind a seated client when having a consultation. It's not an effective way to have an equal and supportive conversation.
4. A client should leave a booking feeling listened to and supported, that the communication and experience itself was positive.
5. Always ensure a client feels comfortable communicating during and even after their visit.​

Cutting

1. The merit of a haircut lies in its ability to grow out well and be functionally flattering independent of products and styling.
2. The act of cutting hair well hinges on an understanding and appreciation of the fluid and inevitably changing nature of it.
   
3. CGM and DEVA are both inherently flawed cutting techniques, particularly for those who desire shape, volume, and movement.
4. ​While dry cutting well is an essential skill to develop, it's application should never be absolute.
5. Blunt lines don't grow out well or support volume, texture and movement.​
6. Frizz is a natural and, at times, unavoidable genetic predisposition. Never allow anyone or anything to make you feel inadequate.
7. There's absolutely nothing wrong with frizzy hair, especially if your hair is shaped in a flattering manner.
8. Well-honed, thoroughly vetted scissor skills are far more important and valued than products or method.
9. ​If more time was spent styling your hair than cutting it, something is likely amiss and it will likely grow out poorly.
10. Social media photos of haircuts are a curated, controlled moment in time and not a realistic ideal to compare yourself to.

Conclusion

Far too few obsess on the functional quality of the haircut and instead seem to primarily focus on the styling of it. Despite what it may seem, an exceptional haircut should not be the exception, it should absolutely be the norm. This holds true for any texture of hair at any length, in any country or culture. Because we are in an era of quick-fix instant gratification, some think after taking an expensive weekend course they can somehow claim to be a specialist. While education can indeed offer a starting point for some, becoming an exceptional cutter takes much longer than a 2-day intensive. The road to effective, consistent proficiency takes decades of full-time, multi-cultural work with correctly aligned motivations. Many won't get there as haircutting in this era remains focused on short-sighted creativity, cult-like movements and social media addictions. Then again, perhaps the 'likes' generated online are all that really matters these days?

Feedback

Have a comment or constructive criticism? I welcome your considered communication. Isn't alliteration great?