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Faheem Alexander is an established celebrity barber based
out of Philadelphia. Faheem’s Hands of Precision are sought
after by clients whose appearance means everything.
How long have you been a barber?
I've been cutting hair for 25 years now. I started practicing on my family in 1990. I didn't know what I was doing, (laughs out loud). I just had an idea and got my first job in a shop in 1992. While in the 9th grade with my mentor doing it as a hobby. To keep me out of trouble it's been a long journey but worth it. I became professionally licensed in 1998. Since then I've obtained two more licenses in PA. I'm up to my Instructor License or Barber Teacher License.
It's been said; "that every man should go to a Barbershop." Do you agree?
YES STRONGLY...... Why? A strong sound Barbershop with good leadership and foundation, teaches unwritten positive "Man Laws". That will help any male young or old. Who has many challenges and it's always somebody in or around the shop that can help guide you threw troubled waters (Mentally, Physically and Spiritually).
Barbershops today are becoming more like high-end salons.( Offering shampoos hair coloring, facials, manicures etc) Do you think that's a good thing or does it hurt the old school style barbershops?
My thoughts on barbers becoming "high-end"? I don't think it's anything wrong with it. It depends on what level of success you're trying to reach. What type of direct product to consumer services you're trying to provide. And no it does not mess it up for the traditional barbershops. You can't be afraid to make changes to your atmosphere.
What's your favorite and least favorite part of Barbering?
My favorite part is being the Owner/Coach. I like to develop ways for other barbers to win!! And for me to lead by example!!!! My least is trying to encourage an individual who says; "I want to cut hair and be a barber under you and learn to be successful just like you". You give them all the love possible, then they turn on you. You think you doing a good deed, but some people want to kick the chair from under you!
When shaping up, do you prefer using clippers or a straight razor? Why?
I use Both these are the tools of my trade.The Outliners put in all the effort of sculpting the hairline. The Razor is used as a cleaning tool to get the fine hair the clipper missed.
What made you become a barber?
I wanted to become a barber because I love art and I love to put smiles on people faces. What better job to have💈 Early on in life as a young teen I didn't want to break my mom's heart or have her bury me first. I wanted to continue on putting a smile on her face. She was a school teacher until her death in 2001, so all my success is dedicated to you!
As an owner, what do look for in a barber? What do you demand from your staff?
LOYALTY. But these days and times it's a lost art. Everybody wants instant success like popcorn from the microwave. HONESTY. To grow and be able to deposit yourself some checks. Learn about business and home ownership etc.
How has Social Media Benefited Faheem's Hands of Precision?
Social Media has open the flood gates for me and my business greatly. For myself spiritually, I didn't realize I had an influence on anybody 3,000 miles away! Until a recent trip with my job at "The Tonight Show" starring Jimmy Fallon featuring The Roots. I was eating lunch at Roscoe's Chicken and Waffles. A beautiful Muslim brother texted my phone, out the clear blue sky! Gave the greeting "Assalaamu 'Alaikum". I texted back "Wa-Alaikum-Salaam" how can I help you? He asked; "is it possible, I can get a haircut while you're in California?" I said; "yes!" He told me he was a huge fan of my skills as a barber. I was like WOW! He told me, "I check your Instagram page everyday!" I said; "good stuff" to myself with a smile. Told him the address of the shop where I was. He said you are 20-25 minutes away from my house. "Give me the address I'll GPS and I'll come right over." I'm huge in my faith and God won't lead me astray. I went after lunch, got there and was glad I took the job. The brother was a single father, raising 3 young men in Southern California. His wife had passed away in 2009. My mother passed 9 years earlier if this ain't spiritually, what is it. His children were very well mannered, first class. I cut his childrens' hair, they loved their cuts. The only thing he wanted from me was the signature "Philly Beard". I said; "I got that." He wore his beard long like mine, The entire evening was perfect. The last thing he ask of me, is if I can lead his family in "Salat" (Islamic Prayer) I said; "yes." He told me it'll be a blessing.
What advice can you give barbers seeking to establish a celebrity clientele?
Don't Go Looking for them. Celebrity's sit in your chair every single day! The neighborhood that your barbershop or job is in, Hollywood and New York City in one! Create the opportunity.
How important is the barbershop to the Black community?
Very important, it bridges that gap in everything a man and his family wants to do!
What are your short term goals?
Retire with all my equity I've invested in my career. Then reinvest it back in my community, I call it "Black Gold."
Photos and information courtesy of Faheem Alexander
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