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What should a barber do before starting a haircut?

  1. Begin cutting immediately

  2. Conduct a consultation with the client

  3. Prepare tools and equipment only

  4. Discuss pricing options with the client

The correct answer is: Conduct a consultation with the client

Conducting a consultation with the client before starting a haircut is essential for several reasons. This step allows the barber to understand the client's preferences, desired style, and any specific concerns they may have regarding their hair. It also provides an opportunity to assess the client’s hair type, texture, and growth patterns, which will influence the techniques and tools needed for the haircut. Engaging in a consultation helps build rapport between the barber and the client, ensuring the client feels comfortable and heard. This interaction can also lead to better satisfaction with the final result, reducing the chances of misunderstandings or mismatched expectations. While preparing tools and equipment is important for an efficient service, and discussing pricing is necessary for transparency, these actions do not replace the critical need to first understand the client's wishes through consultation. Starting a haircut without this understanding could lead to dissatisfaction and potential complaints.