Has New Jersey Gone Crazy with Tipping?
💵 Tips are Supposed to Reward Outstanding Service
💵 Don't allow yourself to be Bullied Into Tipping
💵 The Word "Service" is the Key to Help Decide When to Tip
You’re seeing it everywhere—tipping seems to have a mind of its own these days!
Now, I’m not stingy.
Good wait staff can make a meal memorable, and I tip accordingly.
There’s a reason servers get paid a lower minimum wage: tips are expected to cover the difference, and, from what servers tell me, they often make a tidy sum.
A seasoned server in a decent spot can rake in over a hundred bucks per shift.
So, when I’m out, if the service sparkles, I’m happy to leave 20%.
If it doesn’t? Well, my tip reflects that too.
But now, the tipping jar seems to be everywhere!
You call in a takeout order, pick it up yourself, and suddenly—there’s the screen, politely nudging you to add a tip.
And, yep, I’m pressing “no tip” on that one!
Fast food, same deal.
The way I see it, tipping is about going above and beyond.
If all they’re doing is handing me a bag, I’ll keep my cash, thanks.
Here’s my tip code:
- Bartenders get a buck per drink, and if they keep the night rolling smoothly, a few extra bucks at the end.
- Valets? $3 to $5, depending on the weather—extra if they’re hustling in the rain or cold.
- Buffet servers? If they’re on top of my plates and keeping my drink full, $3 to $5. If not, no bonus.
- Hair stylists? They get a bit more love, especially if it’s a low-cost place—$5 for a $15 cut. At fancier places, it depends on the magic they work.
- Manicurists and masseuses? 20% for pampering my paws and relaxing my muscles.
- Delivery folks bringing flowers, food, or groceries get $3 to $5—enough to say thanks without breaking the bank.
- Hotel Room Service? I'll typically leave about 10 bucks on the day I'm leaving. I leave it on the dresser.
- Casino Dealers? This one can be tricky. I love good dealers. I play because I enjoy the game. A good dealer helps add to the experience. If I walk away up money, I will leave a nice tip (that will depend on how much I won. If I lose? We both lose.
So, there’s my two cents (and a few bucks more) on tipping! It’s about quality service, not just an automatic add-on.
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