Welcome to the world of professional line standing – yes, you heard that right! In our bustling world where time is money, people pay someone else to stand in line for them, which could be you. Does it sound like a strange career path? Sure, it does. But with the right attitude, a few insider tips, and the ability to withstand the occasional leg cramp, you can become a successful, fully employed line stander.
But here's the catch: how do you keep from dying of boredom if you have to stand for hours? Fear not, dear future line stander. We'll take care of you! This article will teach you how to become a professional line stander and turn waiting – the very thing that makes most of us groan – into a fine art of entertainment and income.
So, if you want a job where you can get some fresh air, watch random people, and sometimes have a quick answer to the question, “What do you do for a living?” – you're in the right place. Hold tight, and look at this unusual career path together.
What does a Professional Line Stander do?
First, let's unravel the mystery: what does a Professional Line Stander do? They're the brave souls guard spots in queues, often for folks with better things to do (presumably, not standing in lines). That's right. People pay for this!
“But isn't it boring?” you might ask. Well, not if you know how to become a professional line stander. The secret? Endless episodes of your favorite podcast, a power bank for your phone, and a rock-solid bladder. So, next time someone says, “Get in line,” smile and ask, “How much?”
Method 1: Applying to a Line-Standing Service
Making the Leap: Joining the Professional Line-Standing Community
Becoming a professional line stander is as easy as signing up for an app. Well, not entirely, but it's pretty close! If you're interested in how to become a professional line stander, the most straightforward path forward is applying to a line-standing service. It's like online dating, but for people who need a surrogate to endure the tedious task of queuing.
Get in Line with Same Ole Line Dudes
A New York staple, Same Ole Line Dudes (SOLD), has been around since 2012 and has transformed the line-standing game. You can apply on their website and join their team, earning up to $25 an hour just for standing in line. Plus, you might get a whiff of those freshly baked cronuts or front-row seats to your favorite Broadway shows without spending a dime. Just remember, they take line standing very seriously. Don’t be the one to break the chain!
Join Task Rabbit's “Line Stander” Category
Task Rabbit, primarily a platform for hiring local freelancers for odd jobs, has a “Line Stander” category. You can sign up, select “Line Stander” as a skill, and you're open for business! Just remember to keep your rabbit feet ready for those long lines.
Enlist with Inline4you
Last but not least, there's Inline4you. Known for its “any line, any time” policy, Inline4you is perfect for the night-owl line stander, with many clients seeking queue surrogates for late-night product launches or Black Friday sales. Being with Inline4you does come with a responsibility, though – you're there to save people from the limbo of waiting.
Becoming a professional line stander might not have been on your career bingo card, but it's 2023, and anything goes! So, jump in, brave the lines, and start getting paid for your patience.
Method 2: Creating Your Own Line-Standing Business
Well, you're in luck! Turn that dream into a reality by setting up your professional line-standing business. Becoming a “Professional Line Stander” isn't just about having the legs of a flamingo and the patience of a saint. It's about entrepreneurship!
Identify a Niche
The line-standing market is as diverse as the lines themselves. You've got your post office lines, concert lines, Black Friday lines, and let's not forget the most hardcore of them all: the DMV lines. Identifying your niche is crucial. Perhaps you're a music lover and can stand for hours outside a concert venue? Or maybe you're a thrill-seeker who relishes the chaos of Black Friday shopping queues? Choose your battleground wisely.
Build a Reliable Network
Networking isn't just for those uptight suits in corporate offices. As a future line-standing mogul, you'll need a network of reliable standers, ready to queue up at a moment's notice. You could recruit your friends, but be warned: they might not find the charm in your new venture. It's better to scout out other line-standing enthusiasts who share your unique career path and won't ditch you for the latest Netflix binge.
Market, Market, Market
How will people know you're a professional line stander if you don't shout it from the rooftops? Or at least tweet about it! Use social media, design catchy flyers, or even wear a sandwich board proclaiming, “Will Stand for Money!” This isn't the time to be shy. Your future business empire depends on it.
Be Professional at All Times
Remember, you're not just a line stander but a “Professional Line Stander.” This means no cutting in line, sneaking off for a quick snack, or dozing off on the job. Maintain a high standard of professionalism at all times, and before you know it, you'll be the standing star of your city.
Method 3: Stand in Line for Popular Attractions!
If you're lucky enough to live in a city teeming with tourists, why not turn that tourist trap into your gold mine? Offering your services as a professional line stander at popular attractions is genius. Think about it – you're being paid to people-watch. It's like reality TV but without the need to hit the mute button when the drama gets too loud.
Disney World: Not Just For Kids Anymore
We all know that Disney World isn't just a place where dreams come true. It's also a place where lines are longer than Rapunzel's hair. As a “Professional Line Stander,” you could make some serious cash while enjoying the sights and sounds of the Magic Kingdom. Plus, you'd be everyone's favorite person.
Restaurant Reservations: Your New Bread and Butter
Nothing says “VIP” like walking past a long line in a trendy restaurant. That's where you come in. By offering your line-standing services for restaurant reservations, you're paving the way for a memorable dining experience and pocketing some extra dough.
Must-Try Food: Turn Line Standing into Food Tasting
Fancy yourself a foodie? Combine your love for food with your line-standing prowess. Offer your services at food festivals and new restaurant openings. Just make sure not to drool while waiting – it's not professional.
Exclusive Sneaker Releases: Stand in Line, Sneak in Profits
As a line stander, the sneaker world is your oyster. With each exclusive release, you can make a pretty penny just by waiting in line. Plus, you'll be the first to see the latest trends. Who knew how to become a professional line stander could also make you a trendsetter?
Success Stories: Ronald Zentil Interview
Chicago native and 24-year-old college student Ronald Zentil works as a line stander in his spare time. Line standing has been Ronald's primary source of income for the past five years, bringing in roughly $24 an hour.
GRN: Hey Ronald, thanks for joining us today. Could you start by explaining what a professional line stander does?
Ronald Zentil: Totally. What I do for a living entails standing in a queue while others wait. This might be useful for a wide range of occasions and locations. There are many events and places that are known to have long wait times, such as concerts, store openings, new product releases, and even popular restaurants. Time is money, and my clients know it. They don't have to waste time in the queue and may get straight to the event.
GRN: That sounds like an interesting job. How did you get started in this?
Ronald Zentil: I guess you could say I stumbled into it. While in a queue for a popular performance, I overheard someone muttering that they would rather pay a fee than deal with the crowds. It all started with a joke I made, and they ended up taking me up on it.
GRN: So, what challenges do you face as a professional line stander?
Ronald Zentil: The weather in Chicago may be rather nasty. You have to cope with scorching temperatures in the summer and super cold temperatures in the winter. There's also the fact that standing for long periods of time can be physically difficult. Until now, I have grown to adjust. You'll need good shoes, winter clothing, and plenty of water.
GRN: It sounds harsh. But there must be some positives to it, right?
Ronald Zentil: Undoubtedly, without even a question. Waiting in the queue has allowed me to interact with some fascinating people and see some of the city's most interesting events. It's also gratifying to know that my work is helping others.
GRN: Speaking of your clients, can you tell us more about them?
Ronald Zentil: Sure. My customers have ranged from famous persons who want to stay out of the spotlight to individuals who are physically unable to stand in line for long periods of time. I've worked at a wide range of events, ranging from Cubs games to Lollapalooza, thanks to my location in Chicago.
GRN: Wow, that's a broad spectrum. So, if someone wanted to get started as a professional line stander, what tips would you give them?
Ronald Zentil: My first tip for you is to have patience. There is going to be a lot of waiting involved. Be sure to pack properly for the weather, some snacks and drinks, as well as a book or some other type of entertainment. Last but not least, develop a stellar reputation. Branding by word of mouth is essential.
GRN: That's some solid advice. One last question – how do you find your clients?
Ronald Zentil: In most cases, my customers come to me. When you've been doing something for a time, the news gets out; I have a website and am on social media. It's also good to network at the events you're standing in line for. It's impossible to tell who will be in need of your expertise next.
GRN: That's really insightful, Ronald. Thank you for sharing your experience with us.
Ronald Zentil: It was my pleasure. Thanks for having me!
Time to Wrap it up
So, here's the deal. You can kickstart your career as a professional line stander by joining an existing business, creating your own, or being clever about where and when you offer your services. You can turn a typically mundane task into a money-making machine while being a beacon of patience in a world in a perpetual hurry.
For those itching to get started, we have a comprehensive list of 50 places where you can offer your line-standing services. Trust us, and there's a queue with your name on it.
Click here to dive into this goldmine of opportunity.
To increase motivation, the average annual pay for a professional line stander in 2023 is $40,104 (about $19/hr). That's right! You'll make a good living just by standing there and looking fabulous. So, put on some comfortable shoes, bring a snack, and prepare to wait in the queue. Your journey on how to become a professional line stander starts now.
Stay patient, professional, and, most importantly, in line!
List: 100 Venues & Events to Make Money with Line Standing Jobs
1. Retail Locations
1.1. Store Sales and Releases
- Black Friday Sales
- New iPhone release at the Apple store
- New video game console release (e.g., PlayStation, Xbox)
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- Limited edition sneaker drops
- New designer fashion releases
- Record Store Day limited releases
- Holiday toy hot item releases (like Hatchimals or Tickle Me Elmo)
- Book signings with popular authors
- Art gallery openings for high-demand artists
- New car model releases
1.2. Grocery Stores
- Special promotions or sales
- High-demand product restocks (like a famous hot sauce or imported goods)
- Pre-holiday rush for ingredients (like Thanksgiving or Christmas)
- New store openings
2. Entertainment and Sports Events
2.1. Concerts and Festivals
- Music concerts (especially popular artists or bands)
- Film festivals (like Sundance Cannes)
- Music festivals (like Coachella, Glastonbury)
- Comic conventions (like Comic-Con, Dragon Con)
- Book festivals (like the National Book Festival)
2.2. Sports Events
- Super Bowl
- Olympic Games
- FIFA World Cup
- NBA Finals
- Wimbledon
- The Masters Golf Tournament
- Kentucky Derby
- Tour de France
3. Government and Public Services
3.1. Legal Services
- Court hearings
- Filing for permits or licenses
- Paying fines or fees
3.2. Public Offices
- Passport services
- DMV services
- Social security offices
- Post offices during holiday seasons
4. Food and Beverage Establishments
4.1. Restaurants
- Restaurant openings
- Special menu events
- Celebrity chef appearances
- Food festivals (like Taste of Chicago, LA Food Fest)
4.2. Breweries and Wineries
- New beer or wine release
- Limited-edition spirit releases
- Brewery or winery tours during peak season
5. Tech and Gaming Events
- New software releases
- Tech conferences (like CES, E3)
- Gaming conventions (like PAX, Gamescom)
- VR/AR events
- Cyber Monday sales
6. Real Estate and Housing
- New residential complex openings
- Open house for high-demand properties
- Housing lottery applications
- Rental applications for popular locations
7. Education and Academia
7.1. School and University
- Registration for popular classes
- College or university open days
- Scholarship application submissions
7.2. Conferences and Symposiums
- Academic conferences in popular fields
- TED Talks
- Entrepreneurship or innovation summits
8. Travel and Transportation
8.1. Air Travel
- New flight route releases
- Airline ticket sales
- Check-in for popular flights during holiday season
8.2. Rail and Bus Travel
- Train ticket releases for popular routes
- Bus ticket releases for popular routes
9. Health and Medical Services
- COVID-19 vaccine rollout
- Flu shot clinics during peak season
- Specialty medical clinics with limited appointments
- Pharmacy pickup for high-demand medications
10. Financial Services
10.1. Banks
- New account promotions
- Special financial product releases
- Coin releases or exchanges
10.2. Tax Offices
- Tax filing during peak season
- Assistance with tax disputes or audits
11. Art and Culture
11.1. Museums
- Museum exhibit openings
- Ticket releases for popular exhibits (like Yayoi Kusama's Infinity Mirrors)
11.2. Theatre and Opera
- Broadway show ticket releases
- New play premieres
- Opera performances (like at the Metropolitan Opera)
12. Charity and Non-Profit Events
- Charity auctions
- Non-profit fundraising events
- Volunteer sign-ups for popular events
13. Social and Lifestyle Events
13.1. Weddings
- Bridal boutique appointments during peak season
- Wedding venue viewings
13.2. Fitness and Wellness
- New gym openings
- Registration for popular fitness classes (like spin or yoga)
- Wellness retreats
14. Trade Shows and Expos
- Car shows (like the Geneva Motor Show)
- Home and garden shows
- Jewelry and gem expos
- Boat shows
- Craft and hobby shows
15. Online Events and Sales
- Online course registrations
- Virtual conference registrations
- Online sales (like Amazon Prime Day)
- Ticket releases for virtual concerts or performances
16. Community Events
- Community theater auditions
- Local farmer's market openings
- Community classes (like cooking or crafting)
17. Seasonal Events
- Christmas tree sales
- Pumpkin patch openings
- Easter egg hunts
- Fourth of July fireworks viewings
18. Miscellaneous
- Release of rare or collectible items
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101. Autograph signings
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it a real job to stand in a queue for a living?
It is, yes! Many people are willing to pay to avoid waiting in the queue. You can get paid to wait in a queue. No, this is not a joke. It's a fantastic job for people who can stand for long periods and have the patience of a saint.
Do professional line standers make a lot of money?
It depends on the location and demand, but some can earn up to $100 per hour. Remember that these are peak rates before you dream of your future line-standing riches. The actual amount you'll earn will depend on various factors, including the queue length, the service demand, and the weather conditions (nobody likes standing in the rain, even for cash).
What qualities should a good line-stander have?
Patience, punctuality, and reliability are must-haves. You must also be physically fit, as you'll be standing for extended periods. And don't forget a positive attitude – it might not speed up the line, but it'll certainly make the wait more enjoyable!
Can I start a line-standing business with a friend?
Sure, but ensure you have a partnership agreement to avoid any disputes. Going into business with a friend can be a great experience, but keeping things professional is essential. After all, you don't want a disagreement over line standing to ruin a good friendship!
Is line-standing ethical?
Some people might say it's not fair to pay someone to skip the queue, but in the end, it's up to the person. If someone values their time more than the cost of hiring someone to stand in queue for them, and someone else is willing to stand in queue to make money, it's a win-win situation for both people. But you should always follow the rules and policies of the place you are waiting in the queue.