Bellman Position Helps Keep Him on His Feet

When he moved to California from Alexandria, Va., Doug Wood did not seek out a job as a hotel bellman.

But 11 years later, Wood calls himself a “lifer” because he plans to stay in this line of work for the rest of his life. Wood said his job as a bellman at the Westin South Coast Plaza hotel in Costa Mesa suits his lifestyle--he meets a lot of people, gets to work in a beautiful environment and enjoys free rooms at Westin hotels when he goes on vacation.

“This job fits my needs because I am hyperactive and I get to always be on my feet,” he said. He also likes that his job is truly one that is 9 to 5.

“You work hard and go home and you don’t take your work home with you,” he added.

But things can get tough during those eight hours. “There are times when, for example, a meeting breaks and everyone wants their bags taken down at the same time and we get very busy,” Wood said, “because a hotel like this is supposed to be able to provide instantaneous service.”

And taking care of those needs can be physically demanding. Wood said that he walks up to 10 miles a day and lifts a lot of heavy luggage. He suggests that anyone interested in such a job be in good physical condition.

Though satisfying guests is an ongoing challenge, the reward comes at the end of the day when he is counting his tips. “The harder I work, the more money I make in tips,” he said.

The best way to generate big tips is to be full of information. In addition to their luggage, most guests have questions about local restaurants, shops and interesting excursions. “You have to be able to give good directions and have good communications skills,” Wood said.

OCCUPATION: BELLMAN

* What’s involved: Bellmen carry hotel guests’ luggage to and from their rooms. They are also responsible for driving hotel limousines to and from the airport.

* Qualifications: There are no educational requirements to be a bellman. Applicants must be in good physical shape because the job involves heavy lifting and lots of walking.

* Outlook: By 1998, the number of bellmen in the county is projected to increase by 18.4% to 450.

* Salary range: Most bellmen earn minimum wage plus tips. The bellmen are unionized at some hotels and they are paid higher than minimum wage and receive greater benefits.

* Pros: It is an active job and appeals to anyone who enjoys a good workout. Another benefit is the beautiful hotel and resort environment in which bellmen work.

* Cons: Trying to assist angry or disgruntled customers can often be challenging.

* Advancement: There are possibilities of moving into other positions in the hotel industry. Some bellmen can make lateral moves to work in other guest services. Others may opt to move into hotel management.

* Quote: “You meet a wide variety of people. Sometimes it is like walking into the lobby of the United Nations here.”

--Doug Wood

Researched by HOPE HAMASHIGE / For The Times