More than 7,000 bike messengers ply the streets of New York City. In Manhattan alone, there are around 5,000 who ride through the sidewalks every day. The benefits are attractive: make $300 to $400 a week on your own time without having to sit all day in an office cubicle. If it sounds appealing to you, here’s how to get a bike messenger job.

Job openings for bicycle messengers are posted on public bulletin boards, newspapers, and online classifieds such as Craigslist. If you run into a bike messenger, you can also ask them for tips on potential employers.

Perform due diligence. Scrutinize a messenger service’s track record – how long has it been in business, does it pay well and on time, and does it provide on-the-job protection.

Before applying for a job, have your resume ready. Crucial information should include, if applicable, previous employment as a bike messenger, your bike model, and how well you know the ins and outs of the city.