Gratuities confuse people. Somewhat predictably, the young (teens, those just grazing the legal drinking age and those in their early 20′s) seem to be plagued with the most widespread ignorance on tipping. In my experience, it’s simply that – lack of experience. Or perhaps, lack of education. While just about every parent, or whatever, feels obligated to drop knowledge on topics like the birds and the bees and the importance of earning a few bucks delivering pizza, few parents seem to educate their offspring on social etiquette like tipping. I don’t understand why. As a result, young’ns learn this shit the hard way – that is: by being embarrassed by colleagues or even by waiters and bartenders. On occasion, they can even be perplexed by sub-stellar service, ignored for long periods of time, or even cut off by bartenders and waiters. It’s a vicious cycle. Those folks sometimes feel antagonized and as a result – you guessed it – don’t tip well or don’t tip at all.
I’ve touched on this topic quite a few times in the past particularly in terms of tipping and race, gender and age. But, rather than trying to get all scientific myself, I today defer to our good friend s over at WaitButWhy.com who have published what is arguably the most comprehensive article on tipping in modern history. It’s essentially a complete guide as to why, where, who, when, and how much to tip (or not). It covers not only Hospitality workers, but doormen, hairdressers, valets, masseuses, etc. – the whole gamut of greedy mofos seeking seemingly “free money.”
If you’re somewhat new to this blog, take note that I’m rarely politically correct. On the few occasions when I am, it’s most likely to save my loved ones – or homeys – from extra embarrassment they asuredly deserve. But that’s another story. As someone who has long profited from the tipping culture in the United States, I completely support the findings in the article. They’re not wrong.
Now look: that doesn’t make me, or anyone else in Hospitality, a hater. For example, the statistical observations are just that. Take the findings on tipping and race for example… they’re not indicative on every single person of every race, gender, sexual orientation, etc. They’re findings on a big picture basis. Taken as a whole, that chart is accurate. The sad part is that there are obviously many, many exceptions to every one of these stereotypes/observations. On a whole though, looking at these groups in general, themes are clearly identifiable. I’m not sorry if the truth offends some folks. Seek professional counseling if you’re uber-liberal leftist mind is blown and your rage unmanageable. The truth is the truth.
