How To Tell Your Barber Exactly What You Want: Our 5 Step Guide

Walking into a barbershop can feel exciting, but for many people, there’s also a little bit of nervousness. You sit in the chair, your barber asks, “What are we doing today?”—and suddenly, it can be hard to explain exactly what you’re imagining. Maybe you’ve been disappointed in the past, or maybe you’re not quite sure how to put your vision into words.

At Premier Barber Institute, we know that a great haircut doesn’t just come down to skill—it also comes from clear communication between barber and client. Whether you’re looking for a fresh fade, a sharp lineup, or a completely new look, being able to explain your preferences will help you walk out of the shop with confidence.

That’s why we’ve put together this 5-step guide to help you tell your barber exactly what you want. By the end, you’ll know how to communicate your style clearly, avoid miscommunication, and get a cut that makes you feel your best.

Step 1: Do Your Homework Before You Sit in the Chair

Before you even step into the barbershop, it helps to have an idea of what you’re looking for. If you walk in without a plan, you may end up relying too much on vague terms like “shorter,” “clean it up,” or “just a trim”—and those words can mean very different things to different people.

Here’s how to prep:

• Look for inspiration pictures. Browse social media, barbershop accounts, or even celebrity styles. Save two to three pictures that closely match what you’re looking for. Try to pick photos with similar hair texture and face shape to your own for the most accurate results.
• Know your hair. Every head of hair is unique. Think about how your hair grows, its thickness, curl pattern, and even how much time you want to spend styling it every morning. Bringing this awareness will help you and your barber choose a cut that works for your lifestyle.
• Consider maintenance. Some cuts—like skin fades or intricate designs—require regular upkeep to stay sharp. Decide ahead of time how often you’re willing to return to the barber so you can choose a cut that fits your routine.

The more prepared you are, the easier it will be for your barber to deliver exactly what you want.

Step 2: Learn the Right Terminology

Barbers work with specific language to describe cuts and styles. If you only say, “I want it short on the sides,” your barber might not know exactly how short you mean. By learning a few key terms, you can communicate with precision.

Here are some common barber terms to know:

• Fade: A gradual transition from short hair at the bottom to longer hair on top. You can request a low fade (starts near the ear), mid fade (starts around the temples), or high fade (starts higher up on the head).
• Taper: A subtle shortening of hair around the sideburns and neckline for a natural finish.
• Clipper Guard Numbers: These refer to the length left by clippers. For example, a #2 guard leaves about 1/4 inch of hair. Knowing the number can take the guesswork out of “short.”
• Lineup (or shape-up): Straightening and defining the hairline, beard, or edges for a crisp, clean look.
• Textured vs. Blunt Cut: A textured cut leaves layers and movement, while a blunt cut leaves a uniform, sharp finish.

Learning a few of these terms doesn’t mean you need to become an expert barber—it just ensures you’re speaking the same language.

Step 3: Be Honest About What You Want

Barbers aren’t just stylists; they’re also consultants. If you’re not sure about a specific cut, it’s perfectly okay to say, “I’m looking for something professional but low-maintenance. What do you recommend?” The more honest you are, the better your barber can tailor the cut to your needs.

Here are some things to share with your barber:

• Your lifestyle: Do you need a cut that looks polished for the office? Or do you want a bold style that stands out?
• Your comfort zone: If you’ve never gone shorter than a #4, let your barber know so they don’t take you to a #1 unless you’re ready.
• Your hair goals: Are you growing your hair out? Do you want to keep length on top for styling options? Share these details upfront.

Remember: barbers want you to leave happy. Being open about what you want (and what you don’t want) helps them get it right.

Step 4: Use Pictures—but Use Them the Right Way

A photo is one of the best tools for communicating your vision—but it’s important to use pictures as a reference, not a guarantee.

Here’s how to get the most out of using inspiration photos:

• Bring multiple angles. A front view alone doesn’t tell the full story of a haircut. If possible, bring side and back views too.
• Explain what you like about the photo. Maybe it’s the length on top, the fade on the sides, or the way the hairline is shaped. Point out the specific details you want to replicate.
• Stay realistic. Not every style works with every hair type. If your hair is naturally curly, it may not fall the same way as someone with straight hair. Trust your barber to adapt the style to suit you best.

Barbers are artists—they can take inspiration from a photo and create a version that’s customized for your hair and lifestyle.

Step 5: Communicate During (and After) the Cut

Communication doesn’t stop once your barber starts cutting. It’s okay to check in during the process and give feedback.

• Ask for a progress check. Around halfway through, politely ask your barber to show you the length with a mirror or let you feel it with your hand. This helps catch any issues early.
• Be respectful but honest. If something feels too short or not quite what you pictured, say so right away. Most barbers would rather adjust mid-cut than have you leave unhappy.
• Talk about styling. Once your cut is finished, ask your barber how to maintain and style it at home. They can recommend products, techniques, and tips to keep your look fresh.

And don’t forget the most important part: feedback afterward. If you loved your cut, tell your barber! If there’s something you’d like different next time, let them know so they can adjust. Building a relationship with your barber is crucial for consistently achieving great results.

Bonus Tips for Clear Communication with Your Barber

While the 5 steps above cover the basics, here are a few extra tips to make your barbershop experience even smoother:

• Book with the same barber consistently. The more they get to know you and your hair, the easier it becomes to deliver exactly what you want.
• Arrive with clean, natural hair. Avoid heavy products before your appointment so your barber can see how your hair naturally sits.
• Be punctual. Arriving on time ensures your barber isn’t rushed and can give you their best work.
• Bring patience. Great haircuts take time, especially detailed fades or intricate designs. Trust the process.

Why Communication Matters at Premier Barber Institute

At Premier Barber Institute, we don’t just train barbers to cut hair—we train them to listen, consult, and build trust with their clients. Clear communication is one of the most important skills a barber can develop. That’s why our students practice real-world consultations as part of their training, learning how to ask the right questions, explain styles, and deliver results that make clients feel confident.

When clients and barbers understand each other, the results go beyond just a haircut—it’s about building long-term relationships, boosting confidence, and helping people feel like their best selves.

Ready for Your Best Haircut Yet?

Getting the haircut you want doesn’t have to be a guessing game. By preparing beforehand, learning some basic terminology, being honest about your preferences, using photos wisely, and communicating during the process, you can set yourself (and your barber) up for success.

At Premier Barber Institute, we believe that great communication is the foundation of great barbering. Whether you’re a client looking for your next cut or a student ready to learn the craft, mastering the art of consultation is the key to barbering success.

Want to take your passion for barbering to the next level? Learn how Premier Barber Institute can train you to master the skills, techniques, and client communication that make barbers successful. Contact us today to book a tour or request more information about our programs. Your barbering journey starts here!