7.8 Customer Service in Barbershops

One of the most critical factors for the success of any business, including barbershops, is customer service. Regardless of how skilled a barber is or how modern the facilities are, if the customer service isn't top notch, customers may not return. Let's explore how customer service can be effectively managed across different channels: in-person, telephone and online.

In-person service

In-person service is perhaps the most visible aspect of customer service in a barbershop. Here, the first impression is crucial. Customers should be greeted with a friendly smile and a warm greeting as they enter. The barbershop should be clean and well-lit, with a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. The barber should be professional, but also friendly and open. They must listen carefully to the customer's needs and wants and offer suggestions when appropriate.

The quality of service is also fundamental. The barber must be highly qualified and able to provide a high-quality haircut or shave. They must also be efficient, minimizing customer waiting time. And of course, they should always strive to exceed customer expectations, whether through exceptional service, a pleasant atmosphere or a personal touch like a scalp massage or a cold beer.

Telephone Service

Although in-person service is important, telephone service should not be neglected. Many customers will call the barbershop to ask questions or make an appointment. Here, the quality of customer service can be the difference between a customer who makes an appointment and one who decides to look elsewhere.

The phone must be answered promptly, preferably within three rings. The person answering the phone must be courteous and professional, providing clear and accurate information. They should be able to answer questions about services, pricing, and availability. And of course, they must be able to schedule appointments efficiently and accurately.

Online Service

With the growing popularity of social media and messaging apps, online customer service has become increasingly important. Many customers now prefer to interact with businesses online, whether through a website, email, social media or messaging app.

A professional and easy-to-navigate website is essential. It must provide clear and detailed information about the services offered, prices and opening hours. It should also offer the possibility of booking appointments online, a feature increasingly expected by customers.

Social media and messaging apps are also a great way to interact with customers. They can be used to answer questions, schedule appointments, and even for promotions and special offers. However, it is important to remember that quick response is crucial. A customer who asks a question through a social network or messaging app expects a response within a reasonable time, usually within a few hours.

In conclusion, customer service is an essential aspect of running a barbershop. Whether in person, over the phone or online, high-quality customer service can be the difference between a returning customer and one that doesn't. Therefore, it is essential to invest time and effort to ensure that each customer feels valued and well served.