Doormen: The Unsung Heroes of New York City
Let’s talk about the unsung heroes of the concrete jungle: our beloved doormen. These folks are the gatekeepers to our glamorous New York City lives. They’re the ones who hold the elevator for us, hail us a cab in the rain, and even offer unsolicited advice on our outfit choices. But have you ever wondered: How much do these guys actually make?
The Glamorous Life of a Doorman (Not Really)
Picture this: standing outside a fancy building 24/7, rain or shine, dealing with demanding residents, and the occasional crazy tourist. It’s a life of glamour, right? Wrong. Being a doorman is hard work. They’re essentially concierges, security guards, and therapists all rolled into one. And yet, they somehow manage to keep a smile on their faces.
The Cold, Hard Truth About Doorman Salaries
Now, let's get down to brass tacks. The average doorman salary in NYC is around $35,000 a year. That might sound like a lot, but trust me, living in the city ain’t cheap. Rent alone can swallow up a good chunk of that. And let's not forget about the cost of bagels and coffee, New York's official currency.
But it’s not all bad news. Many doormen are part of unions, which means they get decent benefits like healthcare and pensions. And let’s not forget about those sweet tips! Especially around the holidays, doormen can rake in some serious cash. So, while it might not be the most lucrative job in the world, it certainly comes with its perks.
Beyond the Basics: Perks and Challenges
Being a doorman is more than just standing there looking pretty (or handsome). They’re the backbone of a building. They know everyone’s business (or at least they pretend to), and they have to deal with everything from package deliveries to lost keys. But hey, they also get to meet some pretty interesting people.
Perks of the job:
- Free gym membership (your legs will thank you)
- Access to exclusive building amenities (like that rooftop pool you’ll never use)
- A front-row seat to the city’s drama (people-watching goldmine)
Challenges of the job:
- Unpredictable hours (hello, graveyard shift)
- Dealing with difficult residents (some people are just plain rude)
- The never-ending battle against pigeons (those birds are ruthless)
How to… Doorman Edition
- How to become a doorman: While there’s no formal education required, building management companies often prefer candidates with experience in customer service or security.
- How to be a good tipper: A general rule of thumb is $20-$50 for the holidays, but it really depends on the building and your relationship with the doorman.
- How to get a doorman to like you: Be polite, respectful, and remember their name. A little friendliness goes a long way.
- How to deal with a rude doorman: Unfortunately, not all doormen are created equal. If you’re dealing with a grumpy one, try to stay calm and avoid escalating the situation.
- How to appreciate your doorman: A simple "thank you" can go a long way. Show your appreciation for their hard work and you might just become their favorite resident.