Estimated reading time: 2 minute(s)
Today as we ate at a sit-down restaurant for the second day in a row (may be a record!) I found myself in the familiar place of attempting to figure out what a “fair” tip would be for our waitress. Generally I do a few dollars, which is probably about the percentage it is “supposed” to be.
But this time I had to pause for a few reasons. First, we have spent a bunch of money this weekend on home school books and other supplies, so, was considering the overall funding. Then, the waitress wasn’t really all that helpful. Aren’t you supposed to tip for excellent service?
That’s when I realized what a crazy system the whole “tipping” thing has become!!
Listen, people… TIPS are BONUS money given for doing a GOOD job!!! They are not a requirement. They can’t be. Then they are not tips!
But, I know. Part of the brokenness of the system is that the employing restaurant does not pay their servers a fair wage. They pay less because they realize that “tips” have become a “required” expense for those doing the dining. So they pay less? How is that fair? Doesn’t make any sense… they should get paid to do the work they are doing!
Some places even have a forced gratuity (for large parties, etc). Come on!!
Hmmph! I am pretty close to deciding to never tip a waiter/waitress/server again. If I’m forced to pay a predetermined amount… how is that a “tip”? How do I get to choose to show someone I appreciated their service with a little bonus? I don’t!
So, that’s my rant for the day. TIPS should be TIPS!
🙂
Unfortunately Greg, tips are calculated as part of a waiter/waitress's income. When my wife worked at Friendly's, she earned $3.80/hr – Yes, below minimum wage, because they included her tips as part of her income. So, no tip = less take home pay, not just "bonus money". I agree that a good tip warrants good service, but because of Carey's experience we never tip below 10%.
Federal wage law regarding tips:
http://www.dol.gov/wb/faq26.htm
And I agree, I don't like "automatic" gratuities. An example – going on a cruise. You need to factor in $50-$200 in gratuities alone. The servers, cabin attendants, and even your senior dining room attendant all are required to receive a gratuity.
I understand your rant, tips used to be perks for excellent service. Unfortunately restaurant owners have made that a way of paying less to their employees and expecting all of us to make up the difference.