Tipping is an often overlooked element of service, but it can be pivotal in giving a provider the recognition they deserve for a job well done. Understanding how, when, and how much to tip can be confusing and intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! In this article, we’ll give you a comprehensive guide to help you tip like an expert, no matter the occasion. From pampering yourself with hair or spa services to spooky situations like staying in a hotel or splurging on a fancy dinner, we’ll cover sweet ideas for showering your service providers with appreciation so you can recognize exceptional service and have peace of mind knowing your hard-earned money is going where it's deserved.
When it comes to restaurant bills, tip 15 to 20 percent. This higher tip is necessary due to the fact that servers often have to split their tips with the restaurant's kitchen staff. If the service is particularly exceptional, or if you'd like to show your appreciation for a dish that was made just the way you wanted, then feel free to round up the tip amount. If you're dining as a group of six or more, add a bit more to show recognition to the whole staff, such as an extra 25 percent.
Hair, nail, and beauty professionals such as estheticians should also be rewarded with a 15 to 20 percent tip, depending on the quality of the service. Tip more when a particularly difficult job is done efficiently, or when the professional worked toward creating a look that suited you. When spending more than average, or when treating yourself to a multi-step service, a bigger tip of 20 to 25 percent can help the service provider feel appreciated.
When riding in a taxi, it's standard to round up the fare and offer about 10 to 15 percent as a tip. Many taxis also provide passengers with the option to include a tip when processing payment, so if you’re unsure of the appropriate amount, use this system as a guideline.
When staying in a hotel, the concierge staff, bellmen, housekeepers, and valets should all receive a small tip. If you rely on the concierge’s help to get the most out of your stay, then tip him or her $5 for each request. Bellmen should be tipped $1 or $2 per bag; housekeepers $2 to $5 per night, depending on how much tidying up was necessary; and valets between $2 and $5.
In recent years, more and more companies are turning to delivery services to provide customers with products and meals. For this type of service, referral tips are the best way to reward those working hard to bring you what you want. Referral tips should be around 15 to 20 percent of the total bill.
When it comes to tip amounts, it's important to research what’s expected of a certain profession beforehand. Service providers such as restaurant servers, hair, and beauty professionals, taxi drivers, hotel staff, and delivery services should all be rewarded for their efforts in some way, and tips are a great way to show your appreciation. Generally, 15 to 20 percent is a good starting point, however, feel free to adjust the amount or round up if the service is particularly exceptional or if you'd like to show your gratitude. Tip more if you’re dining in a larger group, staying in a hotel for multiple nights, or are satisfied with a service that went above and beyond. By tipping appropriately, you show respect for service providers and their hard work and hospitality.