Once again, I’m out of town for a few days, so enjoy some additional contributions from the LEAD 201 class of the Looyenga Leadership Center at Minot State University.
Today’s dot was written by Jabez Tuaona
Working as a barber taught me something I didn’t expect. The haircut isn’t the most important part. The person is.
It’s easy to think leadership is about being in charge or telling people what to do. But in reality, it shows up in smaller ways. In a barbershop, it shows up in how you treat every client who sits in your chair.
Early on, I focused on getting better at the technical side. Cleaner fades. Sharper lines. Faster cuts. That matters, but it’s not what builds loyalty. People don’t come back just because the cut was good. They come back because they felt respected.
Every client is different. Some want conversation. Some don’t. Some are clear about what they want; others aren’t. Paying attention to that and adjusting your approach is a form of leadership. It shows awareness. It shows you value the person, not just the service.
Consistency is what separates average from great. Giving the same effort every time, even when you’re tired or busy, builds trust. Owning your mistakes instead of making excuses builds respect. Keeping a positive attitude affects everyone around you.
None of that requires a title. It just requires intention.
Anyone can learn how to cut hair. Not everyone learns how to lead through their actions. The difference is in the small things you choose to do every day.
Hair grows back. The way you treat people doesn’t fade as quickly.
