Reportedly the most followed barber on social media, @arod23pr has found his niche by combining art with entertainment. At close to two million followers, the self-described “artist” offers more than 5,500 posts that are chock full of selfies, humorous videos, makeovers, classic barber cuts, art cuts, family shots and more. “Barbering Is Life” is his motto on his Facebook profile and he shares his mission, which is “To grow the barber community to the next level by posting daily videos that facilitate the education for upcoming barbers or barbers that just want to take their career to the next level.”

The social media superstar has learned the secret to building a following by cross promoting on all platforms. For example, his “Flat Top Hip-Hop Freestyle” You Tube video has more than 40,000,000 views – and he makes sure his Instagram followers know it! He shares a link from one platform to the other to build his own following. It works.

According to one follower, Arod’s success is not just about his talent (and he IS talented) but it’s also about his strategy – beyond cross promoting. “He’s consistent – posting regularly and predictably in a good way. He networks beautifully and has worked very hard to grow his presence,” says the fan who prefers to remain anonymous “His short videos are really skits. They are hysterical and worth watching over and over.” It turns out, that for Arod, it really is the perfect formula.

MODERN caught up with the artist at the most recent Matrix Destination in Orlando, Florida. Arod was a guest of the brand, meeting fans, the press and his community. We asked for his top five tips for the barber community on how to be successful. The video is short and fun, but in a nutshell:

1. Just get active. Offer free cuts for friends, family, etc. Get your name out there. Grow your own community. 

2. Treat everyone you meet as if he or she is already an existing client.

3. Use quality products. Invest in yourself and use the right stuff.

4. Use social media to grow your clientele. Make sure to hashtag your location!!

5. Get as much education as possible. Hairdressers should go to barbering events and barbers should go to hairdressing events “Like Matrix Destination,” Arod says.

Check out this short video (#worthit) and let @Arod23pr answer in his own style. Make sure to WATCH TO THE END!!!: