Hit 1,000 straight fades last month without a single redo - here's the divide I see in the shop

I kept a tally on my phone for 6 months. When I crossed 1,000 fades without having to redo one, I thought that meant I was top tier. But my coworker says quantity like that just means I'm rushing, not improving. He says a barber should focus on maybe 5 perfect haircuts a day, not 15 okay ones. Meanwhile my regulars keep booking me solid because I'm fast and consistent. What do you guys think - does hitting a big number prove skill or just speed?

4 comments

4 Comments

nguyen.blake6d ago

Honestly, I used to be all about cranking out volume too. Reading this and those comments though, I'm starting to see it's not just about the number. Splitting it up like the wood guy said actually makes a lot of sense to me now.

nelson.vera10d ago

Numbers don't lie about speed, but they don't prove artistry either. Your regulars love the fast work, so you're giving the people what they want. If you're not getting complaints, the numbers just mean you're efficient.

brianreed10d ago

Have you tried just flat out asking your regulars if they'd want something more detailed? I did that once and found out half of them actually missed some of the flashier stuff I used to do, they just didn't want to slow me down. The other half straight up said "nah, just give me the numbers and let me get on with my day." lol. So I started splitting it up - fast and basic for the majority, then one or two pieces where I actually take my time and show off a bit. That way you keep both groups happy without burning yourself out trying to please everyone.

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the_terry10d ago

I had a similar thing happen a few years back when I was running a small side gig doing custom wood signs. I asked a few of my regular customers if they wanted more detail or a faster turnaround and it was like 60/40 split. The faster ones just wanted something functional for their garage or hunt camp, but the other group actually wanted the fancy scrollwork I used to do when I started. Splitting it up like you did makes a lot of sense to me. Keeps the door open for both without burning out.