I have a tipping protocol that I use:
Eating Establishments (with wait/bar services): when the place is REALLY BUSY/POPULAR 15-18% standard...
20-25% for above average/excellent service
If it's a visibly slow day, or I never see the place packed I may tip even more.
My rationalization here is that these folks generaly make a little over $2 or $3/hour... and IMHO it's the right thing to do.
Other Services (cabs, hair stylists, shoe shines, etc.): 15-20% standard... 25%-30% above average/excellent service
My rationalzation here is that these people don't necessarily make tips and it makes me feel good b/c they take special care of me if/when I return. IMHO, it's the "proper" thing to do.
People in professions of these sorts (and people in general) should be treated courteously and I feel obligated to be a WONDERFUL patron. If more people felt good about their jobs, EVERYONE would get better service. I take ownership for that, and when I leave a restaurant maybe I made it better for the next person taking my seat... Karma is an byyyatch. You get what you give. Waiters/waitresses DO spit in food, even if you didn't do anything in particular to them. So for me, be nice, tip, be courteous. I do it for you too, not just that waitress and her kids. And if you can't afford to tip, well, just be REALLY REALLY nice, you never know. People don't like to be stepped on.
------------------
"Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it."
Henry David Thoreau
|