The majority of people kindly tip the wait staff, hotel staff or drivers, including delivery drivers, but there are times when the way you tip is downright rude. You don’t mean to be rude, but it sometimes happens. We’re going to share with you the eight rudest tipping habits you might not even realize you’re guilty of.
Unlike the U.S., tipping is unusual in many parts of the world. In fact, except for Hong Kong, it’s considered rude to tip in China. Don’t tip in Japan, either; they also think it’s rude. Some countries have the “service fee” built into the bill, and other servers earn such a high salary that tipping isn’t needed. Check the tipping etiquette in any country you wish to travel to. According to etiquette experts, understanding local tipping customs is crucial to avoid offending locals.
Don’t just write the total number with the tip included in the bottom line without writing the tip on the tip line. This can be confusing if you do this. It will help the server report the correct amount, and you’ll make sure you’ve added it correctly.
Always ensure you have extra cash on hand to avoid any confusion when writing the tip amount.
Even if it’s frustrating and annoying to wait too long for your food, it probably isn’t the server’s fault. The kitchen could be slammed and running slow. You’re punishing the server for something out of his control, and there’s usually a good reason for the delay.
Tipping isn’t just for restaurants. If you have food delivered through DoorDash and Grubhub, you should tip the drivers. Keep in mind that they aren’t making much and are burning expensive gas delivering your food.
Tipping is a way to reward good service, and delivery drivers often go the extra mile to ensure your food arrives hot and fresh.
Many people don’t think of leaving a tip for the hotel housekeeper. Slip a few bucks on the desk or nightstand when you check out. It shows your appreciation for keeping your room clean. If you have a driver to the airport or a taxi, they should be tipped as well. It’s rude not to. Some workers, such as hotel housekeepers and drivers, rely on tips to make up for low wages, including minimum wage.
Budgeting your money for tips is essential, with fifteen percent considered the minimum tip, not the average. It’s difficult to know what to tip but start at 20 percent and go from there if you like the service. If the service isn’t good, then you can revert to 15 percent.
This isn’t the 1950s. Use cash or put the tip on your credit card. Tipping with loose change, especially at a restaurant, is awkward for the server. Coins way more, and frankly, what are they going to do with $0.27? It’s just plain tacky.
If you have a coupon for a BOGO, that’s great, but tip like you’re paying for the whole meal. Keep in mind that the server is doing the same amount of work despite what you pay. If you use a gift card, follow the same rule. This also goes if the manager spiffs you an appetizer or any other food. And don’t forget to include the tax amount when figuring out your tip. Always remember to reward good service based on the service received, not just the discounted price.
Sometimes, tipping can be confusing. You want to do the right thing, but it’s hard to tell how much to tip and when to tip. The bottom line is if you really like the service, tip.
It's important to remember that tipping extends beyond just sit-down restaurants and includes various services such as delivery drivers, bartenders, salon workers, and taxi drivers. In the service industry, tips play a crucial role in supplementing workers' wages, helping them earn a living. Understanding the broader context of tipping can ensure that you support service workers appropriately.
