The hotel industry was responsible for 1.9 million jobs in 2008 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The position of hotel doorman is among the large catalog of jobs the lodging industry provides. Hotel doormen are also referred to as doorkeepers to include women who work in the field. Doorkeeper positions require little to no experience. Education requirements are minimal and turnover rates are high, so it's not hard to secure a position.

Duties

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Doormen and doorkeepers create a welcoming environment for hotel guests and facilitate their arrival or departure. This includes opening doors, hailing taxicabs, greeting guests and carrying their bags into the hotel. Doormen may also be responsible for keeping their work area tidy by sweeping and removing refuse. Beyond their basic duties, doormen are expected to assist guests by giving directions and providing important information about the hotel. Hotel doormen stationed near the entrance also need to keep an eye out for suspicious activity.

Education

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Some employers require a high school diploma or general education degree (GED) but not all. Many employers avoid education requirements so current high school students can fill positions during the summer.

Skills

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Since doormen are front-line employees and deal with guests on a regular basis, customer service and communication skills are a must. Doormen must maintain a clean-cut, presentable appearance. Visible tattoos, extreme hairstyles and excessive jewelry are not appropriate for workers in these positions. Team-players who take direction well and show initiative are best suited for this kind of work.

Working Conditions

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Exposure to harsh outdoor elements, including snow, rain and severe wind, is common because so many doormen are stationed outside. A doorkeeper spends most of his workday on his feet. Occasionally his post will include a desk area where he can sit, but not always. Uniforms are usually required. Some hotels ask doorkeepers to supply their own uniforms. Others provide outfits that must be returned at the end of employment. Work schedules vary. Most doormen work an eight-hour shift but their hours may be irregular. Hotels operate around the clock; swing and graveyard shifts are required to keep the property covered at all times. Workers are also needed on holidays.

Job Outlook

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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the hotel and accommodations industry is expected to grow 5 percent between 2008 and 2018, allowing for new positions to be created. Compensation is also expected to rise during this time frame by 5 percent, although this rate is below the national average.