💵  Tips are Supposed to Reward Outstanding Service

  💵   Don't allow yourself to be Bullied Into Tipping

  💵 The Word "Service" is the Key to Help Decide When to Tip

You’re seeing it everywhere—tipping seems to have a mind of its own these days!

Now, I’m not stingy.

Good wait staff can make a meal memorable, and I tip accordingly.

There’s a reason servers get paid a lower minimum wage: tips are expected to cover the difference, and, from what servers tell me, they often make a tidy sum.

A seasoned server in a decent spot can rake in over a hundred bucks per shift.

So, when I’m out, if the service sparkles, I’m happy to leave 20%.

If it doesn’t? Well, my tip reflects that too.

But now, the tipping jar seems to be everywhere!

You call in a takeout order, pick it up yourself, and suddenly—there’s the screen, politely nudging you to add a tip.

And, yep, I’m pressing “no tip” on that one!

Fast food, same deal.

The way I see it, tipping is about going above and beyond.

If all they’re doing is handing me a bag, I’ll keep my cash, thanks.

Here’s my tip code:

  • Bartenders get a buck per drink, and if they keep the night rolling smoothly, a few extra bucks at the end.
Getty Images
Getty Images
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  • Valets? $3 to $5, depending on the weather—extra if they’re hustling in the rain or cold.

 

  • Buffet servers? If they’re on top of my plates and keeping my drink full, $3 to $5. If not, no bonus.

 

  • Hair stylists? They get a bit more love, especially if it’s a low-cost place—$5 for a $15 cut. At fancier places, it depends on the magic they work.
Belga/AFP via Getty Images
Belga/AFP via Getty Images
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  • Manicurists and masseuses? 20% for pampering my paws and relaxing my muscles.

 

  • Delivery folks bringing flowers, food, or groceries get $3 to $5—enough to say thanks without breaking the bank.

 

  • Hotel Room Service?  I'll typically leave about 10 bucks on the day I'm leaving.  I leave it on the dresser.
FilmMagic
FilmMagic
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  • Casino Dealers?  This one can be tricky.  I love good dealers.  I play because I enjoy the game.  A good dealer helps add to the experience.  If I walk away up money, I will leave a nice tip (that will depend on how much I won.  If I lose?  We both lose.

So, there’s my two cents (and a few bucks more) on tipping! It’s about quality service, not just an automatic add-on.

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