While I was going to school I worked as a waitress. First in a restaurant, then later as I got older, in a bar. In college I worked as both a waitress and a bartender. All three jobs depended on tips as part of my salary. There was not a gratuity added to the check or an automatic 15% added to the check if you had a party of six or more. I always seemed to do fairly well for myself depending on the day or the week and shift.
My three kids while they were in high school also worked at jobs that relied on tips. They also seemed to do well.
I was reading this weekend, and a article caught my eye, San Francisco Restaurant Workers Want To Make 25% Standard Tip Rate « CBS San Francisco. I have always looked at tips as a reward for good service. Sometimes I received more than 15%, sometimes less, but for the most part it around 15%.
I do think that a set tip should be set. If the service is good, then you should leave a tip. I always leave a standard 15% however if the service is outstanding I leave a larger tip.
What are your thoughts?
Do you leave a tip at bars and restaurants?
Do you tip you hairdresser?
If you tip, what percent do you usually leave?