How do you feel about tip jars?

[QuickSilver]

I think they are sort of bs, but I remember when I was a kid, a tip was not considered mandatory on restaurant meals. Now 20% is standard. I imagine in a few more years, tips on fast food will be expected (and eventually the wage will be dropped to compensate).

My philosophy is: if I bring Thor into a place like Starbucks, I tip. If he barks for some reason, I tip very well.

[Shelby&Seymour]

I agree with many of you.... I don't do "tip jars". A take out type counter service job pays minimum wages. KFC... same as McDonalds!
I have worked as a cocktail waitress before when I was younger. I made $2.10 an hour plus tips. The place I worked in had some very "well to do" customers in the horse industry (even some famous ones). I worked my tail off for every penny I received. Of course it was at a time where smoking was allowed in establishments ..... and NO ONE lit their own smoke in my section. I was on my toes and always was there with my bic in hand!........ The best tip I ever received was from an older gentleman that ordered a Perrier water. It was slow that late afternoon and I took time to talk to him about sites to see in the area and places that would interest him. The next evening he returned, ordered another Perrier and placed a $100 bill in my hand and thanked me for being so kind. Good service, smiles and kind words make the BEST waitresses!!!
I DO tip my hairdressers & dog groomers. They are wonderful.... wouldn't go to them if they weren't!

[capt_noonie]

Originally Posted by Shelby&Seymour

I agree with many of you.... I don't do "tip jars". A take out type counter service job pays minimum wages. KFC... same as McDonalds!
I have worked as a cocktail waitress before when I was younger. I made $2.10 an hour plus tips. The place I worked in had some very "well to do" customers in the horse industry (even some famous ones). I worked my tail off for every penny I received. Of course it was at a time where smoking was allowed in establishments ..... and NO ONE lit their own smoke in my section. I was on my toes and always was there with my bic in hand!........ The best tip I ever received was from an older gentleman that ordered a Perrier water. It was slow that late afternoon and I took time to talk to him about sites to see in the area and places that would interest him. The next evening he returned, ordered another Perrier and placed a $100 bill in my hand and thanked me for being so kind. Good service, smiles and kind words make the BEST waitresses!!!
I DO tip my hairdressers & dog groomers. They are wonderful.... wouldn't go to them if they weren't!

Your story reminds me of one my friends told me. She worked as a coat check girl at an afterhours nightclub in Hollywood. On occasion, some celebs would come through. One time one came it, and he checked his coat, and he needed a light. She lit his blunt, yes a blunt, and he tipped her $100.

[Maximo]

Originally Posted by capt_noonie

I HATE tipping the valets! I don't trust them at ALL! We once had a highly modified sports car and I absolutely hated places that were valet only. Imagine, a young guy, gets handed over the keys to powerful sports car, what do you think they are going to do? Heck, even I would. So I know they would. I hate waiting for the car to get back too. If you take 20 mins to get my car from the garage I am not tipping you.

Now on occasion, the valet would keep the car close, so we did not have to wait for ever to get the car back, then yes we would tip.

The only problem I have had with valets was when I would drive dad's Camaro and the young guy would look in the car and say, "Oh, it's stick.....uh, well...." How can a person be a valet and not know how to drive stick? Otherwise, I have never had any "Ferris Bueller" moments with them.

[capt_noonie]

How can a valet not know how to drive stick?! Isn't that part of the interview? I always find it hilarious when a guy can't drive stick. If they aren't car guys, then ok, but if they like fast cars and stuff, and can't? omg, fail.