It’s called "Guilt Tipping" and You May Be Guilty of It

Think back to the last time you found yourself at a coffee shop, finishing up your order and the employee running the register turns the screen towards you and says, "the computer is going to ask you a few questions" only to be faced with a screen full of numbers asking how much you would like to tip. So, do you tip because you feel obligated to? Or hit "no tip" and possibly damage the level of service you receive by an upset employee.

To tip or not to tip?

Many etiquette professionals agree that you should tip for a counter service like coffee shops or food trucks, but not because it is mandatory. Simply because it is customary to do so. Some programs allow customers to exit the tip screen and directly sign causing the tip to be anonymous. There are varying factors that come into play like the level of service, frequency of visit, and the size of your order but if you feel generous enough to tip, you shouldn't feel guilty.

How much should you tip?

This question is one that many may be unsure of and the blanket answer is, it depends. If you are stopping by your local coffee shop to pick up your morning cup of joe on your way to work, an appropriate tip would be 10-15%. But if you have placed a large order, you may want to tip 20%. The standard tip is anywhere from 15-20% and is very appreciated. Take into consideration how you want to be remembered; tipping is a meaningful way to express gratitude for exceptional service.

Effects of the 2020 pandemic

The pandemic took a toll on the service industry and tipping became no longer an act of civility, but crucial to the livelihood of the workers. Workers who relied solely on tips were faced with the unknown as we were forced to rely on takeout, experiencing a large cut to their wages. Many have felt a pull at their heart strings and are eager to tip to help make up for lost income, hoping that they can help make a difference. With tips increasing on takeout and counter service work, it is now a practice that is almost expected.

Ultimately, tipping is completely up to you, the patron. Currently, the tip culture in the U.S. is a part of the norm, so for most people, it's not a surprise when the time comes to pay. Electronic tip requests should never "guilt" you into leaving a tip. Your purchase, a smile, and a genuine "thank you" can sometimes be enough but remember that tipping is a simple—and for many in the service industry, a meaningful—way to express appreciation for exceptional

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