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March 13, 2025
Is Your Door Team Friendly?
A guest’s night doesn’t start inside your venue—it starts outside, at the door. The way your doormen manage the line, greet guests, and handle tough situations sets the tone for the entire night. The best doormen make guests feel welcome, excited, and in the right place. The wrong approach can make guests feel uncomfortable, frustrated, & ready to leave a bad review. Here’s something worth thinking about: Are your doormen creating the best possible experience at the door?
The Doorman’s Role: More Than Just Security
It’s easy to think of doormen as just security—checking IDs, enforcing the dress code, and keeping troublemakers out. And while that’s part of the job, the best venues recognize that hospitality starts at the entrance.
A great doorman balances authority with approachability. They know how to:
✅ Greet guests with confidence and professionalism
✅ Manage the line in a way that feels smooth, not chaotic
✅ Be firm but fair when enforcing rules
✅ Make the venue feel exclusive, but not unwelcoming
When done right, a friendly and professional doorman can turn first-time guests into regulars.
Why a Great Door Team is a Business Asset
A warm, well-managed door team isn’t just about hospitality—it’s good for business.
💰 Better Guest Experience = More Spending
People who feel welcome are more likely to stay longer, order more, and return.
👥 A Doorman Can Turn First-Time Visitors Into Regulars
A familiar, friendly face at the entrance builds trust and comfort over time.
🔒 Good Energy at the Door = Fewer Problems Inside
A doorman who knows how to de-escalate issues creates a safer, more enjoyable environment for everyone.
🌟 A Welcoming Door = A Stronger Reputation
Word spreads quickly about how a venue treats people—both in person and online.
The 5-Second Impression Test
Want to get a feel for how guests experience your entrance? Take a moment to observe your doormen in action.
Ask yourself:
1️⃣ Do they greet guests warmly—or just enforce rules?
2️⃣ Are they helping manage the line smoothly—or letting it feel like a hassle?
3️⃣ Do they balance authority with friendliness—or lean too far in one direction?
4️⃣ Are they creating a safe but welcoming atmosphere?
5️⃣ Would YOU feel comfortable walking through your own entrance?
If something feels off, chances are, your guests feel it too...
Final Thoughts
Hospitality starts at the door—not inside.
Your door team isn’t just there to check IDs—they’re the first impression of your venue. And in nightlife, first impressions don’t just matter a little—they make or break your business.
Make it a great one.
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