Quirky Work Experiences: From Gun Trading Shed to Hipster Magazine Salesman
I have had my fair share of unconventional work experiences, from temping for an old man and his son in a secluded gun trading shed to catching chickens in a brightly lit barn during high school. These jobs, while vastly different, have left unforgettable memories and provided me with unique perspectives on the work world.
Temping in a Gun Trading Shed
After college, I worked briefly as a temp for an old man and his son at a small gun trading operation. The business was run out of a shed in a tucked away section of a small New Hampshire town. I began to wonder if it was a front for illegal gun trading. The company had unloaded weapons in a storage area, and the man bragged about his collection of various firearms. He took long days off to attend gun shows, where he bought and sold guns. Despite frequent visits from customers and friends, there were never any trucks pulling in or out for deliveries.
Despite my misgivings, the man was clearly making money, as evidenced by his nice car and decent house. However, I was never comfortable with the shady activities, and this job brought to light the need for thorough background checks and due diligence in the temping world.
Catching Chickens in a Brightly Lit Barn
During high school, I had a memorable yet unorthodox job catching chickens at a farm. The barn was illuminated with blue, red, and green lights to help the workers see, but the chickens couldn't. The method was simple: we reached out with our thumbs down and grabbed a chicken by one leg, turning them upside down to prevent them from resisting. We caught three chickens in each hand and handed them off to the semi-truck driver for transport. The smell of chicken droppings lingered for days, and my mother refused to let me enter the house without changing clothes. This job not only taught me about animal handling but also the importance of safety in the workplace.
Traffic Strike Survival: Selling Magazines on the Street
During a junior high transit strike in San Francisco, I found myself with unexpected free time while waiting for a ride near my school in North Beach. A hippy-type man asked me to watch his magazines while he took a leak. I sold a few Berkeley Barbs, though I don't remember exactly how many. Despite the short sales pitch, the experience was intriguing, which piqued my interest in modern and alternative culture.
Driving Horse-drawn Carriages in Atlanta
One summer, I drove horse-drawn carriages around downtown Atlanta. At 22, I looked nothing like the typical person who would take on such a job, but it was a role I embraced wholeheartedly. I loved the city, had spent years around horses, and was a history buff. Part of the job was giving historic tours of the area, which allowed me to connect with the city's past and share it with curious visitors. This experience taught me about customer service and the importance of storytelling in engaging the public.
In summary, my unconventional work experiences have been invaluable, teaching me about different aspects of the job market, the importance of clear communication, and the value of understanding various cultures. These quirky jobs have also brought humor and unforgettable stories into my life.