Saturday, October 30, 2010

The Guilty Tip

Does anyone else feel an uncomfortable obligation to write in a tip amount on a "to go" receipt when picking up your food? Having worked in the food service industry myself for several years I know what a difference tips can make, but honestly, isn't it presumptuous to set a "To Go Tips Appreciated" jar on the counter? The tip, as I understand it, is the prerogative of the patron as a way of showing appreciation for prompt, courteous and accurate service. Somehow, it has evolved into an obligation. And further still...We are now expected to throw in a few dollars for them handing the bag of food to you. I don't want to come across as a tightwad, but when I draw the line through the 'Tip:' portion of the receipt and total it up before I sign it, I always feel like they are watching me with hungry eyes and mumbling choice expletives under their breath about me. It would seem I now need to give people a few dollars just so they won't call me names. Anyone else as cheap as me?

5 comments:

  1. I agree and I'm so with you! Jeremy would probably disagree! He is a great tipper and thinks he should tip EVERYONE (that's his generous heart I guess!) Now mind you I don't MIND tipping but come on people what happened to "serving one another" without expecting anything in return! LOL

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  2. You're an excellent writer as I was aware from Theconspiracyexposed.. but this blog which I've just now checked out.. has also made me aware of your incredible humor ^^ Love intelligent people with an appreciation for and candor with sarcasm :)
    Just dropping a line. Hope all is well.

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    1. Gary...If you're still around - Thanks a ton for your compliments!! Sorry it's taken me TWO YEARS to say "thank you"...Where ARE my manners?

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    2. Gary...If you're still around - Thanks a ton for your compliments!! Sorry it's taken me TWO YEARS to say "thank you"...Where ARE my manners?

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  3. OH.. as pertaining to this blog specifically.. I spent a good deal of time working in the food industry myself. I'm a generous tipper---when it is EARNED. However, unlike a lot of associates I've been out to eat with(who have no experience in the food industry), I can also be more tight about tips when they're not warranted. A waiter/waitress that is not making minimum wage and is dependent on tips to supplement their income should be the only individuals getting tips(and then only if they earn them--if they don't come around and uphold their responsibilities, then they have not earned a full income). However, the people handing out "to go" orders are usually Hosts/Hostesses and they make minimum wage(+).. You don't see a tip jar for the cooks, do you? And those are the people you WANT to be appreciative of your business.

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