Let’s get a little controversial today and talk tipping. Personally, I think we’ve gotten to a place in America where tipping is expected rather than earned. Let’s get that out of the way right now. And let’s also note I’ve spent some solid time in the service industry so I firmly relate to the brutal grind that life entails. Yet I firmly believe that a tip should not be implied.
It’s a slippery slope and while I don’t believe in simply tipping as a requirement, I do reward really good service. I’ve tipped 40% before because service was above and beyond my expectations. So it’s not that I’m cheap. It’s that I believe in giving your best and earning the over and above of what the bottom line is.
I want to break down some scenarios.
The Where: Restaurant
The What: The food is bad
I don’t penalize the server for this. It’s not going to take away from a tip because the server didn’t cook the meal. If it’s so bad I have to send it back, I’m still not deducting from the tip. To me, this isn’t a service issue. Get a manager if you must, but if the meal is taken off the bill, you still owe a tip.
The Where: Restaurant
The What: The server is rude
I’m deducting from the tip. I get it, the server has to tip out the bar back, the runner, etc. Then I suggest the server has a better attitude. Plain and simple.
The Where: Hair Salon
The What: Bad haircut
I’m not deducting from the tip if they can fix the mistake. If another stylist has to fix the mistake, I’m paying one tip. If it’s so bad I need to go to a different salon, I’m honestly probably lobbying not to pay at all.
The Where: Hair Salon
The What: All is normal and good
Ok so in general I’ve learned across the board that tipping at a salon is inconsistent. I know some people who tip $15 no matter what. I had bee tipping 20% consistently. But then I realized that can get absurd on top of some really steep prices. I honestly hover closer to 15% these days. If it’s a tough job, I’ll get to the 20%. But if you’re just trimming my hair, I’ll probably stick closer to the flat $10.
The Where: Restaurant
The What: The server makes consistent mistakes
I’ll probably honestly ask for the manager. If the situation is corrected or some sort of consolation is offered, I’ll keep the tip at 20%. If it’s never acknowledged and the place isn’t busy, I’m deducting from the tip.
The Where: Bar
The What: Takes forever to get a drink
Eh, honestly across the board I’m tipping $1 a drink. If I’m at a place serving craft cocktails that are an art form, I’ll go $2 a drink. I can’t remember a time I ever didn’t tip or left something less than $1/drink.
Ok so most of these have to do with restaurants. But honestly, that’s where I’m hearing the most controversy these days so that’s what I’m addressing. I think tipping is such a sensitive topic because it’s such a brutal industry to be in if you’re working for tips. I feel for you, but I also don’t think you get a pass just for existing in that industry.
Plain and simple, I think tipping should be earned, not expected. The service industry is based on service. Are the people well paid? Generally no. Is it an easy job? No. But it’s also a choice to work in that industry. Maybe I’m harsh, but if I don’t do my job, I get fired. If I’m bad at my job, I get in trouble and probably don’t get a raise. If you’re at your job and you want a tip, be a generally pleasant and effective human being please.
What are your thoughts?