'Lucky Beauty Salon'...Lessons From The Barber Shop !
Much later in life I realised that 70% barber shops in Mumbai are called Lucky. I grew-up thinking that only the one next to dad's house was the Lucky one !
Unconsciously, I picked-up an assortment of lessons from 'The Lucky Beauty Salon'! Let me share :
1. Once an emotional bond is built, trust is irreplaceable. 'Mushtaq bhai' knew my hair so well that I did not have to tell him what & how I like it. Fancy outlets can add decorative value but cannot replace emotional bonding.
2. Where there is trust, one
surrenders full control & blindly entrusts charge even of a thing as precious as one's face. Sustainable Loyalty follows continued trust.
3. Respecting the unspoken limits is the basis of any relationship. One does not jump lines in a Salon. You may get a special cup of tea whilst waiting but jumping queue - disallowed.
4. Your critical investment in self-grooming adds to your self-confidence & presentation.
5. Visiting a salon is a matter of Habit. Sundays are never Sunday's till Mushtaq bhai - trims the beard.Habit formation is critical to building sustainable loyalty in business. The party does not end till the fat lady sings!
One more learning - where mind is open to learning, you don't need schools or books!
Adil, enjoyed reading your write-up on your experiences with the barber. They resonate with me and am sure with most others. I enjoy most the unexpected free wheeling conversations on all things under the sun, listening to old Hindi songs playing in the background and look forward to the final complimentary 'head massage' to finish the haircut. Your article brings back pleasant memories! :)