What motivated you to open your own business?
I wanted to create my own space where I could embrace my creativity and enjoy what I do every day within my own realm.
How long have you been in the industry and what did you do prior?
I am currently in my 7th year in the industry and prior to this I worked in retail and took time travelling the world.
What is/was our biggest challenge in opening your shop?
The greatest challenge has been finding staff that share the same vision, heart and culture as Jay’s Barber Co. however, I do currently have a great team who I am very grateful for and excited to be sharing this journey with.
What is your vision for your business?
My vision is not just for business but to create a positive barbering culture in the Mackay area. My ultimate goal would be to have the opportunities to collaborate with like-minded people and businesses where we can build positive relationships, celebrate each other’s wins and learn from one another.
What inspired the shop design and feel?
My first passion began with my love for coffee and falling in love with Melbourne’s unique and diverse cafe’s. This set the foundation for how I wanted to incorporate my love for barbering and coffee together and create something new and fresh in the Mackay area.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
One of my proudest accomplishments is having had the opportunity to open two barbershops in a rural community successfully.
What is one of your favourite brands, and why?
One of my favourite brands is Slick Gorilla. My favourites are the powder, lightwork and the sea salt spray as I appreciate how these products help me emphasise texture, create a certain look, and compliments a diverse range of hairstyles
What are three items you’d take with you to a deserted island?
A boat, a phone, and a 6 pack.
Share with us an interesting story from your youth?
When I was 13 years old I went on a trip with my dad to India. The train station was packed full of people and the train we were meant to catch was taking off and on the other side of the platform. We jumped onto the tracks and my dad threw me onto the train and he tried to jump on also but fell off and could not get back on. I didn’t know where the train was going, had no form of communicating with my dad and everything was in a different language,
What hair trends do you see currently and how do you adjust to it?
I have noticed an increase in a diversity of longer hair styles.
For example, mullets, long messy top, and long style slick backs. I adjust to this by embracing the change and following various social media platforms, doing online training, and arranging face-to-face workshops for me and my crew.
How do you recruit, retain and motivate your team?
I have built good relationships with the local schools for work experience and creating opportunity for school-based traineeships and apprenticeships. I also utilise social media platforms to advertise any vacant positions.
I do priortise regular check ins with my team making sure their personal and professional needs are met. I also enjoy taking my team for social lunches, and I celebrate my teams wins. I have also encouraged my team to join me in a social touch footy season outside of work which has been positive for team building and bonding.
I motivate my team by encouraging their active participation in the barbering culture by attending expos and workshops. I also regularly arrange educators to spend time with my guys to upskill and motivate.
What is your favourite thing to do when you’re not working?
Spend time with my family, play music, touch footy and mowing my lawn followed by a beer.
What’s the best piece of professional advice you’ve ever received?
A good name is worth more than gold.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Stay true to yourself.
