Doormen: The Unsung Heroes of New York City
Let’s talk about the unsung heroes of New York City: our beloved doormen. They’re the ones who hold the fort when we're out living our glamorous lives, juggling umbrellas, hailing taxis, and generally being the face of our buildings. But, how much do these guys actually make?
The Golden Ticket: Union Doorman Salaries
You might be surprised to hear that being a doorman in New York City isn’t just about holding doors. It’s a career path, complete with union benefits and a salary that could make your jaw drop.
Now, I’m not promising you’re going to be rolling in dough like a Wall Street titan, but the numbers can be pretty sweet. Union doormen typically make a decent hourly wage, plus overtime, holidays, and other perks. Let’s just say, it’s enough to live comfortably in a city that’s notorious for its high cost of living.
More Than Just Holding Doors
Think being a doorman is all about standing there looking pretty? Think again. These guys are multi-taskers extraordinaire. They’re package handlers, security guards, concierge services, and sometimes even therapists to cranky residents. It’s like having a personal assistant living in your building.
So, next time you’re handing your keys to your doorman, remember they’re doing a lot more than just pressing a button. They’re the backbone of your building, and they deserve some serious appreciation.
The Perks of the Job
Besides the salary, being a doorman comes with some pretty sweet perks. Imagine having free access to a gym, or maybe even a pool, right in your building. And let’s not forget about the potential for holiday tips. Some buildings are known for their generous residents.
How to Become a Doorman?
Want to trade in your desk job for a life of holding doors and chatting with neighbors? Here are a few quick tips:
- How to get your foot in the door: Networking is key. Talk to doormen in your building, or reach out to building management companies.
- How to prepare for the physical demands: Being a doorman involves a lot of standing and lifting. Make sure you're physically fit.
- How to master the art of customer service: You'll be dealing with all kinds of people, so a good dose of patience and people skills is essential.
- How to understand the union system: If you want to join a union, research different unions and their benefits.
- How to dress the part: First impressions matter. Invest in a decent uniform.
So, there you have it. Being a doorman in New York City might not be the glamorous life you imagined, but it’s definitely a job with its perks. And hey, who wouldn’t want to be the friendly face that welcomes everyone home?