There's a man named Robert Samuel who works as a "professional stander" - he charges $25 for the first hour and $10 for every extra half hour to wait in line so his clients don't have to.
The Professional Stander Earning $1,000 a Week
In the bustling streets of New York City, time is a commodity more valuable than gold. For many, waiting in line is a tedious, time-consuming chore. But for one enterprising individual, it's a lucrative business opportunity.
Meet Robert Samuel, the entrepreneur behind Same Ole Line Dudes (S.O.L.D.). Samuel has carved out a unique niche for himself and his team, earning him the title of 'professional stander'.
The Birth of a Bizarre Business
Samuel's journey into professional line-sitting began in 2012. He saw a need and seized the opportunity, placing an ad on Craigslist that would soon change his life and the lives of many busy New Yorkers.
What started as a simple idea quickly grew into a thriving enterprise. His company offers a service where paid individuals wait in line on behalf of clients, saving them precious hours.
What Does a Professional Stander Do?
The job description for a professional stander is straightforward yet demanding. They queue up for virtually anything that requires a wait.
- New Product Launches: Think the latest iPhone or popular video game consoles.
- Exclusive Events: Broadway show tickets, concert tickets, or art exhibitions.
- Trendy Food Items: Infamous Cronuts or limited-edition culinary delights.
- Unique Releases: Highly anticipated sneaker drops or other sought-after collectibles.
These dedicated line-sitters endure all weather conditions and long hours, ensuring their clients don't miss out on popular, hard-to-get items or experiences.
A Lucrative Livelihood
The pricing is straightforward and hourly. Same Ole Line Dudes charges $25 for the first hour and $10 for every additional half-hour, which comes to about $45 for a two-hour wait. For clients who value their time more than their money, that is a trade worth making.
Samuel himself has demonstrated the commitment required for the job. He once spent 38 hours waiting in line at an Apple Store in Manhattan's meatpacking district for the iPhone 6. This dedication highlights the lengths to which professional standers will go to fulfill their duties.
More Than Just Waiting
The business of professional standing is not merely about physical presence. It involves strategic planning, understanding crowd dynamics, and often, a considerable amount of patience.
It's a testament to the fast-paced urban environment where such specialized services can flourish. Robert Samuel's story is a fascinating example of how innovation can emerge from everyday frustrations, creating an unexpected yet highly sought-after profession.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Verified Fact
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Claims checked
- Robert Samuel is a real NYC "professional stander" who runs line-sitting company Same Ole Line Dudes
- He started the job in 2012 via a Craigslist ad, after losing a retail job, to wait for the iPhone 5
- Pricing is $25 for the first hour and $10 per half hour after, about $45 for two hours
- He once waited 48 hours for the iPhone 6s and earned $965 for it
Sources: The New York Times, Same Ole Line Dudes