What must barbers do before starting a haircut?

Before starting a haircut, it is essential for barbers to conduct a consultation and assess the client's hair type. This step allows the barber to understand the client's preferences, discuss any specific styles they might want, and evaluate the condition and texture of the hair. By gathering this information, the barber can tailor their technique and choose the appropriate tools to achieve the desired outcome, ensuring a more satisfactory result for the client. Conducting a consultation not only demonstrates professionalism but also fosters communication and builds trust between the barber and the client.

While discussing favorite styles and putting on gloves can be part of the overall process, they do not encapsulate the foundational step of assessment and consultation that informs the haircut. Additionally, beginning to cut without understanding the client's needs and hair type could lead to unsatisfactory results. Therefore, conducting a consultation is a critical and required practice for any barber before proceeding with a haircut.