Additional Coverage:
- 11 Things You Do When Tipping That Servers Secretly Hate (financebuzz.com)
Don’t Be That Diner: 11 Tipping Mistakes to Avoid
Dining out is a treat, but with rising costs, everyone is looking to stretch their budget. That might mean opting for less expensive dishes or skipping dessert.
However, there are some unspoken rules of the dining experience, especially when it comes to tipping, that can leave a lasting impression-good or bad. Servers work hard to make your meal enjoyable, and understanding proper tipping etiquette ensures they are fairly compensated for their efforts.
Here are 11 common tipping faux pas that can leave your server feeling shortchanged and impact your reputation as a diner:
1. Claiming You Can’t Afford to Tip
While unexpected expenses can pop up, most diners understand that a tip is a standard part of the overall cost. Telling your server you can’t afford to tip after the fact is a major no-no. Many in the industry believe that if you can afford to eat out, you should factor in the cost of tipping.
2. Tipping on the Bill Before Tax
Though some may recall older etiquette guides suggesting this, modern dining norms dictate calculating your tip on the total bill, including tax. While a small difference, your server will certainly appreciate the extra few cents.
3. Tipping Less Than 20%
While there’s a range of opinions, a 20% tip is widely considered the standard for good service. It’s important to remember that many servers earn a sub-minimum wage, with tips forming the bulk of their income. Tipping less can significantly impact their ability to make a living.
4. Not Tipping More When Your Table Makes a Mess
Large groups or families with young children often create more work for servers, from taking complex orders to extensive cleanup. If your party leaves a significant mess, a tip above 20% is a thoughtful way to acknowledge and appreciate their extra effort.
5. Leaving a Tip in Coins
While technically still money, leaving a tip primarily in coins can be perceived as disrespectful or inconvenient for servers. Whenever possible, opt for cash or a card tip to make things easier for them.
6. Tipping Poorly for Problems Outside Their Control
Servers are responsible for attentive and polite service. However, issues like an overcooked steak or an overdressed salad are often out of their hands. Penalizing your server with a reduced tip for kitchen errors is unfair and misdirected.
7. Tipping Poorly After Not Speaking Up
If there’s an issue with your order or service, it’s crucial to communicate it to your server so they have a chance to fix it. Withholding a tip afterward, without giving them the opportunity to address the problem, is unfair.
8. Not Understanding That Tips May Be Pooled
Many restaurants operate on a tip-pooling system, where gratuities are shared among servers, bartenders, and support staff. Leaving a poor tip to “send a message” can negatively affect multiple individuals who contributed to your dining experience.
9. Tipping to Express Interest (or Disinterest)
Tipping should solely reflect the quality of service received. Servers often feel frustrated when customers use tips to make inappropriate advances or reduce tips if their advances are not reciprocated. Your tip is a measure of service, not a personal endorsement.
10. “Tipping” in Compliments
While genuine compliments are always appreciated, kind words do not pay the bills. Tips are a fundamental part of a server’s income, not a bonus for flattery.
11. Not Tipping Whatsoever
Unless the service was truly abysmal, skipping a tip entirely is rarely justified. Servers depend on these earnings. If something went wrong, address it with management, but don’t withhold their pay over minor issues.
The Bottom Line
Tipping appropriately demonstrates respect and fairness, showing that you understand the realities of restaurant work. By avoiding these common missteps, you ensure that servers are properly compensated for their hard work.
If you’re trying to manage your food budget, focus on strategies like saving on groceries or dining out less frequently, rather than shortchanging the service staff. Your fair tip supports workers, contributes to a thriving dining culture, and enhances the experience for everyone involved.
Read More About This Story:
- 11 Things You Do When Tipping That Servers Secretly Hate (financebuzz.com)