On Tipping

Maybe it's because I work in the hospitality field, but I'm often appalled at the attitudes regarding tipping...especially as the economy tightens. For, as the economy tightens, people are apparently reducing the percentage they tip.

Heard an interview recently with the author of "Waiter Rant: Thanks for the Tip" in which he suggested that, if you can't afford a 20% tip, maybe you don't make enough to eat out. Some will assail the comment. I applaud it.

The difference between 15% and 20% is often less than a buck or two for most...which we have no problem tossing down a rat hole playing the Lottery. Why not give it to someone that is struggling to make a living? And, at the same time waiting on US?

Hey, if the service is lousy, fine...do 15%. Hell, do 10%. Maybe they'll get a clue and find another line of work. But, if you're backing off from 20% just 'cause YOUR times are tight...c'mon.

We referenced a recent TripAdvisor study last week. In it were some disturbing stats:

Only 59% tip housekeeping in hotels. And 9% don't tip even 15% in restaurants.

What cheap assholes.