When I was out with friends recently, the subject of tipping came up. I have written about this before, but worth a revisit, especially as the holidays loom. This topic can be a bit awkward to discuss since the amount you decide to give may be impacted by several factors: 1) your income; 2) the service/food you received; 3) whether or not you have worked in the service industry. I have worked as a buss-er in college, so I can relate on this topic.
As a research project, I came across this site with user-provided guidance on what are suggested tipping percentages depending on the type of service you are receiving, meaning a taxi, luggage delivery, salon, or other grooming service, among others.
My general guide still stands at restaurants, generally 15%, but I don't tip on the tax. Remember, that's the State version of Uncle Sam (is there a name for that?, someone please tell me) that's levying that. So, unless you really like your server, be sure to use the pre-tax total. Also, be sure that if you are in a group that the tax isn't already in there. Generally, 6 or more in a party might trigger the automatic 18% gratuity. (Where 18% came from I will never know. It kind of sounds like the greeting card/diamonds conspiracy around the holidays). Just because you are in a larger group it doesn't mean that the service got any better. I have seen quite the opposite, actually, but I digress.
One thing to remember also is that if you are using restaurant.com certificates, which I have discussed before, be sure you tip on the amount pre-discount. That's the appropriate way to handle it.
Your comments, as always, are appreciated.
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