If you're a barber who's been running your business through text messages, DMs, and pen-and-paper scheduling, you’re not alone. Many successful barbers have built loyal clientele using these traditional methods, but there comes a point when the manual hustle starts to create more stress than it's worth.

Whether you're fully booked for weeks or still building your client base, managing appointments via phone or social media can become chaotic. Double bookings, missed messages, and last-minute cancellations can easily throw off your day—and your income. 

That’s where theCut comes in.

Transitioning to a digital platform might feel like a significant change, but theCut is designed to make your business run more smoothly with less effort. Here’s how to make the switch—and why it’s worth it.

Why it’s time to switch

theCut helps barbers streamline their business and take control of their schedule. When you use the app, you can eliminate the back-and-forth that comes with texts and calls. Clients book through your profile, and with auto-confirm, appointments show up on your calendar without you lifting a finger.

This alone frees up valuable time, allowing you to focus on what actually generates income: cutting hair. It also reduces interruptions mid-appointment, which leads to a better experience for your clients and a more efficient day for you.

Beyond that, theCut helps you grow. You’ll be visible in the app to potential new clients looking for a barber nearby, and your current clients will have an easy way to refer you—no phone numbers or social handles needed. Just your profile link.

Getting started as a barber

Your first step is setting up your profile. This is how clients find, book, and recommend you.

Add your services, pricing, and availability. Upload photos of your work. Set your booking preferences. And create your custom profile link to share wherever you already promote your business.

We break down the full setup process in our guide, How to Set Up Your Barber Profile.

Getting your profile right is key to getting the most out of theCut.

Helping your clients adjust

Most barbers worry that switching to an app will confuse or frustrate their clients, especially those who aren’t tech-savvy. The truth is, clients value convenience. And the easier you make it for them, the quicker they’ll adapt.

Start by introducing theCut in person. When your client is in the chair, pull up your profile, let them scan your QR code, and encourage them to book their next appointment on the spot. 

If someone reaches out via text or DMs, use it as a chance to redirect them. Respond with your booking link and let them know that all future appointments should be booked through the app. Most will appreciate the clarity and structure.

You can also import contacts from your phone and send your link to your existing client list all at once. For walk-ins, use theCut to create an appointment and keep your records organized. You can even take payment in-app with Tap to Pay, which helps clients who prefer not to carry cash or cards.

The key is consistency—once you’ve made the switch, reinforce it at every touchpoint.

Make your client experience even stronger

Transitioning to theCut is about more than managing your calendar. It’s also about deepening your client relationships and encouraging loyalty.

Use the built-in notes feature to track client preferences or milestones—like upcoming vacations, weddings, or birthdays—so you can offer a personalized experience every time.

Set up a referral program that rewards clients for bringing in new business, and pair that with a loyalty program to incentivize regular visits. And when you have a last-minute opening or want to share new hours or promotions, send a Blast message to your full client list directly from the app.

These tools make it easier to run your business and keep your clients coming back.

Worried about tech-resistant clients?

Not every client will be quick to adapt. That’s okay. The key is meeting them where they are.

You can show them how to book during their appointment and let them know they can still pay the way they always have—whether that’s cash, card, or self-checkout. theCut doesn’t force clients to change how they pay or interact with you—it simply adds structure behind the scenes.

Once a client books through the app the first time, it becomes second nature.

Your business, upgraded

Moving to theCut doesn’t mean changing your brand or craft. It means giving yourself and your clients a better experience—less stress, more clarity, and more control.

And you don’t have to do it alone. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Ready to make the switch? Start by setting up your profile.