Friday, July 11, 2008

Tipping…An Interesting New Approach

Tipping used to be something we did after we received a service. It always made sense to leave a little extra on the table or the credit card at the end of a meal, a haircut, or a massage.

In the last several months, I’ve noticed an additional “tip line” on my credit card receipts at buffets, pizza parlors, sandwich shops, etc.

I’m all for tipping if I receive good service, but why a tip for the cashier who takes my money before I enter a buffet, or the person at the counter who took my pizza or sandwich order?

I have seen these people show clear signs of disappointment when I draw a line through the tip and write the total at the bottom.

If you come to my table to take my order, bring me my food and drinks, and are kind and efficient, I’ll be happy to give an extra 20 percent, but let’s wait until you’ve done something more than press a few keys on the cash register and take my money.