Post-Pandemic Tipping Etiquette

Many employees encountered layoffs and cutbacks during the pandemic. And many people began utilizing services such as curb service for their necessities and food deliveries for their daily meals. Those who could found it in their heart to tip generously in support of those working so hard to make ends meet. With the virus concerns easing up and life getting back to what was familiar before the pandemic, people are left wondering the norm for tipping. Read on to learn post-pandemic tipping etiquette and how the guidelines changed drastically.

Hospitality Workers Rely on Gratuity 

Servers at restaurants and those working in the beauty and hospitality industry rely on tips as part of their income. While the standard has traditionally been 15% of the cost of the bill, 18 to 20% has become more of the standard. Additionally, it was not unusual to tip a service provider well over this amount during the pandemic. A tip pool is often in place to ensure other members of the staff (often called “back of the house”) are also being compensated for their effort. Because of this, understanding post-pandemic tipping etiquette is essential. 

Give What Feels Right

Things are starting to feel normal, and life after the vaccine seems like it is business as usual. However, there is an awkward transition period where people are uncertain how to move forward with gratuity while others are still looking for jobs and attempting to pay off debt. It doesn’t mean the customer is responsible for anyone else’s budget but their own. It does mean it’s essential to be respectful when determining what and how much to tip. A Harris Poll conducted for Fast Company found 19% of Americans tip less than they did before Covid-19. While restaurants are grateful for your business as you walk through their door and physically sit at the table, gratuity is part of the dining experience.

Tip Graciously

A tip is a reward for good service. Before you skip on a tip for something you are not happy with, allow the server to make it right. For example, if the food is cold or not to your liking, that is not a reason to withhold a tip or leave a tip that is so low it’s insulting. It’s often not the server’s fault, and the kitchen should be allowed an opportunity to fix the problem. If you do experience a bad waiter, talk to the manager and let them make it right. I advise leaving 18% to 20% for good service and more when you feel the experience justifies the increase. If you have a complaint regarding the cost of the food, perhaps you should rethink your choice of the restaurant next time around and select a dining establishment you are more comfortable with the price point.   

Take Out and Delivery Post-Pandemic Tipping Etiquette

The standard tip for take-out food is 10% to 15% of the cost of the meal. It may feel like they are doing very little to bring the food to your car or door or hand you the bag of food over the counter but consider the situation. If you buy a burger and give them cash or credit card, you may opt for the customized “no tip,” but perhaps drop your extra change or a dollar in the tip jar.  

For more information, check out The Protocol School of Texas. You may also like Tipping the Delivery Driver. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.