The Role & Expectations
The work is checking IDs, deciding who comes in, watching for trouble, breaking up arguments and dealing with anyone too drunk or aggressive, then recording any incidents. Staying calm, reading situations early and talking people down matter far more than size, and you often work closely with bar staff, CCTV and the police.
The hours are nights, weekends and bank holidays, often outdoors and in the cold, and there is a real chance of facing aggression, so a level head is essential. Pay is usually hourly, often a little above minimum for the unsociable, demanding hours.
By law you must hold a valid SIA (Security Industry Authority) door supervisor licence, which means approved training and a background check before you can work. Many doormen start through a security firm once licensed.
Daily Responsibilities
- Check IDs and decide who can enter
- Watch for trouble inside and outside
- Refuse entry to those too drunk or underage
- Calmly defuse arguments and conflict
- Remove aggressive or unsafe customers
- Record and report incidents
- Work with CCTV, staff and police