💈 Tech Meets Tradition

Welcome to Clipper Circle, the email newsletter for barbers that keeps your game sharper than your razors.

This is special. Today is our first ever drop 🔥 and you’re here from the beginning, congratulations.

Each Monday and Thursday we’ll be keeping your inbox well groomed with the latest and greatest tips on anything and everything that can help level up your game as a barber.

But here’s the catch - we already know you’re a genius with the clippers, so we’ll leave that to you. This newsletter is aimed at helping the entrepreneur in you with advice on customer service, latest commerce tech and all things business.

So let’s get started.

Today’s lineup:

• AI's cutting-edge role in barbering.

• Mastering Conversations

• September Strategies

4 Ways to Use AI to Boost Your Barbering Business

Let’s talk A.I. (artificial intelligence), and we’re not talking flying robots or some crazy sci-fi movie stuff. We're talking about tools that will simplify your hustle, boost your earnings, and keep your shop running smooth.

Below we’ve listed 4 ways you can use AI to do exactly that:

1. The 24/7 Receptionist

You know the struggle of finding reliable help, or the stress of trying to do it all yourself. Well, how about a receptionist who's never late, never has a sick day, and never takes a break? An A.I. receptionist can be that reliable presence, working around the clock to improve customer experience and save you some much-needed time. Plus, it's a heck of a lot cheaper and simpler than hiring and managing human staff.

There’s a lot of SaaS companies that already exist in the world, check out True Lark as an example.

2. The Scheduling Pro

We've all felt the sting of a no-show, or the frustration of a last-minute cancellation. Empty chairs aren't just annoying, they're costly. But imagine a world where an AI pairs with your existing booking system, scans past appointment data, and finds the clients most likely to fill those annoying gaps. The result? Less stress, more productivity, and more profit, all while you get to focus on what you do best - delivering sharp cuts.

It seems like it will be no time before apps we already know like booksy and fresha jump on the bandwagon but in the meantime, checkout what’s possible at Get Reach AI.

3. The Revenue Booster

Trying to sell products to clients without sounding pushy is a delicate art. But what if you could outsource that? AI can do all the selling, seamlessly recommending products and services via text messages. It's like having a silent salesperson who's not pushy, but effective. This tech could significantly boost your revenue without making your clients feel uncomfortable. Here’s one service we found that could do just that.

4. The Seamless Communicator

It's a situation we all know too well - you're in the middle of a cut and your phone rings. You don't want to interrupt your work, but you don't want to miss a potential booking either. Now imagine AI that immediately responds to your clients with quick answers about availability, prices, and more. And on the rare occasion a question comes up that only you can answer, the AI politely informs them that you'll get back to them soon. This keeps everyone happy, without you having to juggle phone calls and haircuts.

While it seems this is a space we’re still waiting to find the perfect solution is, it looks like this company is making waves.

Let's not just be barbers, let's be industry leaders. It's about staying sharp, staying ahead, and embracing the future. Remember, here at Clipper Circle, we're not just setting the trends, we're revolutionizing the industry.

Meme of the Day

The Customer Code

Put down those clippers for a second and get ready to snip away at bad customer service in this week's 'Customer Code.'

Today we’re delving deeper into the soul of the barber's craft - the fine art of conversation. Remember, your chair isn't just for trims, it's the hub of connection.

1. Let's start with perception

Look at your clients not just as customers, but as part of your ever-growing network. Genuinely engaging with their stories, their victories, their everyday life adds a personal touch to their visit. Whether it's a tale from their latest vacation or the little victories their kids achieved at school - these conversations often turn a routine trim into a memorable interaction.

2. Next up, conversation starters

Keep it light, breezy and engaging. Discuss the big game that had everyone on the edge of their seats, or the newest hot-spot in town. Rule of thumb - keep controversy out of the chair. We're all about the smooth cuts and good vibes.

Remember though, everyone's different. Some folks may cherish a quiet chair time. If you sense the 'silent treatment', honor it. Your chair can be their slice of peace in a chaotic day.

And hey, why not share a bit about yourself? A humorous story, a cherished memory, can help break the ice. Just remember, we're barbers, not shock jocks!

3. Let's seal this deal with the golden rule: your barber's chair is a fortress of trust.

What's spoken in the chair, stays in the chair. If your client confides in you, it’s a sign of trust. Honour that trust just as you would want if roles were reversed.

So, let's keep spreading those positive vibes. Remember, top-notch cuts come from top-notch connections. With every haircut, you're not just providing a service, you're creating an experience. That's the mark of a true elite barber - setting trends, one cut, and conversation at a time!

💈Snippets from the Shop

Bullet-point rundown of news, updates, and reflections for the busy barber

• The back-to-school bell is ringing! Have you thought about offering a fresh start haircut special?

• Tourism surged by 86% this year. As locals return, having splurged abroad, it's prime time to relaunch loyalty schemes or highlight your services.

• The iconic 2020c clipper from JRL just got a stylish upgrade. Meet the Onyx - black, bold, and ready for action.

Closing up shop for now on this edition, but we'll be back before your next shave. Stay sharp!