Alex Rodriguez, owner of Sir Cutz Barbershop in Boynton Beach, Florida, is a passionate professional barber with over two decades of industry experience. In this interview, we ask Alex to share his inspiring story, from how he started and the challenges he's overcome to his favorite clippers. Whether you're starting out or a seasoned pro, join us as he shares insights, experiences and valuable business tips.
An Interview with Alex Rodriguez, A Talented Professional Barber and Owner of Sir Cutz Barbershop
Tell us a little about yourself. How did you get started in the industry?
Most barbers in the industry have a similar story. We start in an old bathroom, garage or basement. I started because of someone very close to me – my brother Steven. Before he left for college, he brought home an Andis T-Outliner trimmer to line himself up. After he was done, I asked him to try it on me.
While he was gone, I realized I needed to learn for myself. I didn't have any idea how to use the machine, but I kept experimenting until I got it. From there, I maintained my haircut regularly. My cousins and friends eventually noticed and asked me to also give them cuts. Soon, it became a new focus in my life.
At a young age, I had the entrepreneurial spirit selling snacks, phones and other things, but cutting hair was innocent and fun. I understood that if I could master it, I could cut up family, friends and, soon, new clients.
As time passed, I became a better barber and would walk home from high school with friends, charging them $1 to $3 to cover my school lunch. This allowed me to help my mom by not asking for money.
That Christmas, my mother and aunts purchased my first clipper set from Sally's, and I haven't looked back since.
What were some challenges you had to overcome?
The most difficult challenge I faced was being given the opportunity to cut hair at Heads Up, a successful barbershop in Carol City, a neighborhood in Miami Gardens, Florida. It was one of the best shops in the area and offered a unique educational environment, but it also was a tough upbringing.
When I was 17, the owner, Hugo, gave me a chance to cut hair but after a few days, I realized I wasn't ready for that level of cutting. He told me to come back when I was ready and that he would have a chair for me.
Fast forward five years, I became a solid all-around barber and called him back for a second chance. He kept his word and offered me the opportunity.
I had a young daughter then, and after a couple of months, I realized I had to branch out on my own because I had built a loyal clientele in Boynton Beach, which was too far from Carol City.
Once I mentioned I had to leave, he asked me to stay because I had become one of the best barbers in the shop, but respectfully, I had to part ways and go back to what I felt was a great opportunity and a strong clientele. Nevertheless, it felt good to come back and prove my worth.
What advice would you give new barbers starting in the business?
If you're a new barber starting out, build your social media presence, but also seek guidance and mentorship from successful professionals who have been in the game for much longer than you.
For the OGs, keep learning, expanding your knowledge and growing your experience because this game is changing fast daily. It feels like a new trend or hairstyle is coming out every year.
Build your barbering skills but also learn the business. Learn marketing because that will always allow you to find new clients. Take your time; don't rush the process because social media says you should. Understand your clientele and what works for you and your community. You might be talented, but it takes much more than raw skills to be great.
Finally, stay consistent – always be professional, maintain your skills and never stop growing and educating yourself. All barbers run their own race, so don't compare yourself to others, and you will be successful in many ways. Create what works for you and your business.
What's your favorite barbering tool (make/model) and why?
Wahl Senior Cordless Clippers look and feel great; they're user-friendly, effective, precise and comfortable to handle. You can cut and style any texture, making them a timeless choice.
What are your favorite hair styling products and why?
At the moment, Level 3 has the best styling products. The hold, texture, and scent offer great results for clients.
What haircuts and styles are trending right now?
Short curls with a taper blend on the sides is a popular look for many teenage guys. Skin fades and full beards are also timeless styles.
What's your favorite style(s) to cut?
I've always enjoyed a dark hair buzz cut with a low skin fade and tapered into a full beard. It's perfect for a stylish, year-round style.
What do you love about barbering?
Barbering saved me from me. I also love meeting new people all the time.
If you could go back in time, what would you do differently?
I wish I had taken my career more seriously and sought better guidance or mentorship earlier. Nowadays, I enjoy sharing my experiences and knowledge with those who want to take their careers seriously.
