Tipping is an important part of the service industry, and it reflects not only your appreciation for the service but also your respect for the people providing it. It helps support workers who often rely on tips to make a living wage. People tip for various reasons: to praise excellent service, because they feel it’s expected, or to provide extra support to workers who might need it.
The tipping culture has slightly declined in 2023 compared to previous years, likely due to recent global economic events. Take a look at the following statistics:
- 68% of diners think full-service restaurants always deserve a tip.
- 66% of diners believe that too many places are requesting tips nowadays.
- 48% say fast food places don’t deserve tips.
While many people believe they tip adequately, there are some common tipping habits that can come off as rude, even if unintentional.
Not Tipping at All
In many service industries, workers rely heavily on tips to supplement their income. Not tipping sends a message that you did not appreciate the service, regardless of its quality.
Tipping Too Little
While not as egregious as not tipping at all, leaving a very small tip can be equally offensive. It implies that the service was barely acceptable. Standard tipping rates are generally 15-20% of the total bill. Anything less can be perceived as an insult unless the service was genuinely poor.
Ignoring Tip Jars
In places where tip jars are common, such as coffee shops or casual dining establishments, ignoring them entirely can seem unappreciative. Even a small contribution shows recognition of the service provided.
Leaving Coins
Leaving a tip in coins can be seen as disrespectful, especially if it amounts to a very small sum. While any tip is better than none, try to leave paper money whenever possible, or ensure that the total amount is substantial if using coins.
Using Gift Cards for Tips
When paying with a gift card, it’s easy to forget to leave a cash tip. However, this can leave the server without proper compensation. Always ensure you have some cash on hand to leave an appropriate tip if you’re using a gift card.
Splitting Bills and Tips Unevenly
When dining in a group, it’s common to split the bill. However, if one person ends up paying the majority of the tip while others contribute little to none, it can be unfair and create an awkward situation. Ensure everyone contributes their fair share of the tip.
Tipping Based on Pre-Discount Amounts
When using a discount or coupon, it’s important to tip based on the original, pre-discounted amount. Servers still work just as hard regardless of the final bill, and tipping on the discounted amount shortchanges them.
Expecting Immediate Gratitude
While it’s nice to be acknowledged for a generous tip, expecting immediate gratitude from your server can be uncomfortable for them. Trust that your tip will be appreciated without needing an immediate thank you.
Writing Compliments Instead of Tipping
Leaving a note complimenting the service without an appropriate tip can seem insincere. While compliments are always appreciated, they do not substitute for the financial compensation that servers rely on.
Withholding Tips for Slow Service
Service speed is often beyond the control of the individual server. Kitchen delays, high customer volume, or understaffing can all contribute to slower service. Unless the server is directly responsible for poor service, withholding a tip for slow service is unfair.
Not Tipping for Takeout
While it’s less common to tip for takeout, many establishments now encourage it, especially if staff members go out of their way to provide excellent service, such as packing your order carefully or providing additional assistance. A small tip is a nice gesture of appreciation.
Not Tipping Delivery Drivers
Delivery drivers often rely on tips as a significant part of their income. Not tipping for food delivery, especially in adverse weather conditions or during busy times, can be seen as particularly inconsiderate.
Tipping Only the Bare Minimum
Leaving just the minimum recommended tip (e.g., 15% in restaurants) can come off as grudging. If you’ve received excellent service, consider tipping a bit more to show your appreciation.
Not Adjusting for Large Parties
When dining with a large group, it’s customary to tip more generously. Larger parties often require more work from the server, so the tip should reflect the extra effort.
Ignoring Additional Service Fees
In some places, a service charge may be added to the bill, which can be confusing. Always check whether a service fee includes a tip or if an additional gratuity is expected. Leaving no tip because you assume the service fee covers it can be a mistake.
Forgetting Hotel Staff
When staying at a hotel, it’s easy to forget to tip the various staff members who make your stay comfortable, such as housekeepers, concierges, and bellhops. Leaving a small tip for these services shows your appreciation.
Tipping at All-Inclusive Resorts
At all-inclusive resorts, it’s often unclear whether tipping is expected. While some resorts include tips in their pricing, others do not. It’s important to check the resort’s policy and tip accordingly to ensure the staff is properly compensated.
Leaving Tips in Poor Condition
Handing over crumpled or dirty bills can seem disrespectful. Ensure your tip is in good condition to reflect the respect you have for the service provided.
