Comparing Earnings: Taxi Driving vs. Fast Food Work
When I was driving a taxi in New York, I brought home between $120 to $350 in under-the-table cash per night. Meanwhile, a McDonald's shift manager only makes $8.50 an hour before taxes. But which job pays more depends on where you are in life.
The Perspective of an Experienced Worker
From my personal experience, if you've worked most of your life in regular jobs, you are well aware of the responsibilities and intricacies of earning a paycheck. You understand the nuances of having a schedule, showing up, excelling in your role, and dealing with the consequences of poor performance.
Adults know they are not just accountable for themselves but also for their team members. If you don't show up or do your job, it affects others who have to cover for you. You also know the importance of communicating with your boss and providing valid reasons for missing work, adhering to their protocols for absence.
For Those Without Much Work Experience
However, for someone who is new to the workforce, McDonald's might be a better option. You will learn valuable skills such as dealing with the public and customer service. Everyone should work in a fast food or restaurant setting at some point in their life for several reasons.
Working in a fast food environment helps you understand the customer experience on the other side of the counter. You might not be so rude or dismissive about a slow or incorrect order, having personally experienced the frustration of waiting in line or receiving a subpar meal.
The Pros and Cons of Each Job
Taxi Driving: As your own boss, you retain the flexibility to choose your hours and days off. However, you bear the responsibility for your income and must be self-motivated. Without consistent work, you may not earn a stable income.
Fast Food Jobs: You benefit from a structured schedule and potentially better benefits, as large companies often offer benefits packages. You are part of a team and learn valuable soft skills such as time management, customer service, and dealing with stress.
Considerations for Your Future
Your choice between these two jobs should be made based on your current life stage and career goals. If you are looking for a more stable and structured path with clear career progression, McDonald's might provide that experience. On the other hand, if you appreciate flexibility and want to develop your own enterprise, giving taxi driving a try could be worthwhile.
In conclusion, the choice between taxi driving and fast food jobs depends heavily on your personal situation and life goals. Both offer valuable lessons and experiences, but one might be a better fit for you based on your current life stage and aspirations.