March 13, 2016
Innovation has been an amazing thing, hasn’t it? In our desire for everything to be bigger… better… faster… technology has answered the call. However, one of these digital enhancements has actually inflated, and confused, how much we give as gratuities. Here’s how:
You may have seen the new, tablet-based point-of-sale (POS) systems that are replacing cash registers in coffee shops, salons, delis and even dry cleaners. If you’ve been presented with an iPad to sign-off on a credit card transaction, then you’ve used one. Many of these digital POS systems have a section where you can add a tip. Seems harmless enough, and maybe even efficient, and here lies the problem:
Lets say you go to your favorite coffee shop and get in line to purchase a $4 coffee. You order your double latte, hand the clerk your credit card and he or she turns the iPad toward you to complete the transaction. You stood in line to order a coffee –and will have to wait in another line to pick up your coffee — and now suddenly you’re presented with tip options? The server is staring at you, awaiting your next move and there is a line of impatient people waiting behind you. What do you do?
Welcome to the world of “tip creep.” Tip creep is the expectation of an exorbitant tip where none was demanded or even expected before (like at a dry cleaner). It’s fueled not only by POS’s tip suggestion, as well as the pressure to tip the counterperson who is waiting for you complete your purchase (as is everyone in line behind you.)
Most people avoid the “No Tip” button as they don’t want to be seen as “that guy.” The preset default tip amounts then tap into the power of suggestion and quick convenience. With those, gratuities can be inflated to 50 percent or higher. (Which, by the way, is what you would have paid if you opted for a $2 gratuity on the $4 cup of coffee!)
In short: You’re thrown into an uncomfortable position, and all you wanted was to get your early morning caffeine fix!
Here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to gratuities on point of sale technology.
When at casual, order-at-the-counter establishments:
- Pay with cash. These types of purchases are often under $10 anyway. Plus, you’ll save yourself additional fees if your bank charges you for debit transactions.
- Tipping is at your discretion. If you feel that you’ve had exceptional service, leave a tip that you feel comfortable with.
- Avoid giving in to pressure from those behind the counter or in line behind you.
When at a full-service, sit-down restaurant:
- Tip your waitperson at least 15 percent for good service and 20 percent for great service. If the kitchen made a mistake on your order, avoid punishing the server with little or no tip. Tip as you would normally, and tactfully talk to the waiter and/or management about the problem that occurred so that it can be rectified.
- Refrain from writing things such as “Better luck next time” or “Find sour cream” on the tip line. Passive-aggressive notes such as these are in very poor taste and can actually work against you (especially for the “Find sour cream” guy).
Would you like some more tips on tipping etiquette? Check out my Guide to Tipping Etiquette or download my handy, one-page Tipping Etiquette Cheat Sheet.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Uncategorized and tagged tipping etiquette
November 16, 2012
When it comes to tipping, even the most seasoned travelers can be unsure. What you believe to be a generous tip can be perceived as an insult in certain countries. And in still others, offering a gratuity can be construed as rude.
Knowing when to tip and how much to tip can be a bit of a struggle if you’re unprepared. Before you embark on your holiday excursion abroad, take a few moments to review these “around the globe” tips on tipping.
According to Conde Nast Traveler, never leave a tip on a credit card. Your server may or may not necessarily receive it.
In France, the locals usually tip up to 10 percent when dining out—in addition to standard service charges noted on their bill. Visitors, however, are not expected to tip unless the service is excellent.
In most parts of the U.K., service charges are included. If not, then a 10 to 15 percent tip is appreciated. If you are “regular” in the pub, it’s not unusual to say to your bartender “Take one for yourself,” when you are paying for your drinks (ie. Pour one for yourself and add it to my bill.). In the past, the bartender would probably have replied, “Don’t mind if I do,” and joined you in a beer. Today, he would likely have a coke or take the cash and put it in a beer mug next to the cash register!
In Switzerland, most places include a 15 percent service charge on the bill. No additional tip is expected, but in fancier restaurants, or if you receive excellent service, leaving an additional small tip is acceptable.
When dining in Germany, adding a 10-15 percent tip to a food or bar bill is customary.
In Italy, leaving a tip as close to 10 percent is acceptable, but no more.
At restaurants in Turkey, a 10 percent cash tip is appreciated.
In Australia, it’s customary to leave a 10 to 15 percent tip for good service.
In the Middle East, those who provide services tend to reach out for a tip more often, but its customary to tip in small amounts.
In Dubai, you’ll find a 10 percent service charge tacked onto your bill at hotels, restaurants and bars. Typically the tip is divided among the staff.
In Egypt, expect to pay an additional 5 to 10 percent on top of the 5 to 10 percent charge that is already built into the bill. Dollars are often the preferred currency.
At restaurants in Israel, the tip is typically included in the bill, but it’s customary to add a few shekels to the total bill. At your hotel, tip the concierge a shekel or two if the service is excellent; and expect to pay six shekels per bag for porters and four shekels per day for housekeepers.
When dining out in Argentina, it’s customary to round up and add a 10 percent tip. Dollars are recommended and it’s a good idea to keep a lot of change in your wallet as restaurants and shops are not keen on breaking bills.
In Brazil, no additional tips are expected in restaurants, as it’s included in the 10 percent fee.
If you’re dining out in Mexico, be sure to have cash on hand as it’s the preferred method for tipping. Ten to 15 percent is customary. Dollars are accepted, but pesos are preferred.
In South Korea, the only tip expected of tourists is for your hotel porter. Tip the usual $1 per bag.
Travelers to Japan and China are not expected to tip at all—except for in Hong Kong where a 10 percent tip is acceptable. Leaving a tip can be construed as offensive in these countries as it implies that the employee is undervalued by their employer.
Knowing the etiquette for tipping when traveling abroad will save you time, money and maybe even a little embarrassment!
Sources: Conde Nast Traveler; Mint.com.
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Posted by Margaret in Dining Etiquette and tagged dining etiquette, tipping etiquette
