Touchscreen and iPad Tipping Etiquette

A breakfast muffin, a latte and a double dose of guilt are often present when paying the bill with a touchscreen tipping option. Awkwardly signing your name while selecting a tip option, among them “custom” or “no tip,” while the clock is ticking and you feel all eyes in the coffee shop are squarely on you. If you pay by credit card at a restaurant, coffee shop or retailer, you have no doubt had this experience more than once. I recently purchased a souvenir t-shirt and was prompted with a tipping option for a product I brought to the counter myself. It’s often called “guilt tipping,” and it’s not going away anytime soon. So how do you handle this uncomfortable exchange? Keep reading for a crash course in iPad Tipping Etiquette (sometimes referred to as “Pressure Tipping” Etiquette).

iPad Tipping Is Not All Bad

A tablet-based tipping system serves a purpose. Being able to tip without cash makes it easy when you are paying by credit card; specific prompts on the iPad give those who are slightly mathematically challenged a helpful solution. For those who tend to be more frugal (cheap), it ensures the server gets a fair tip. But, not all transactions require gratuity. My t-shirt experience is a perfect example, and I boldly chose the “no tip” option. The person behind the counter didn’t expect anything other than a smile and friendly “thank you.”

Get Your Game Face On

Knowing what to expect is iPad Tipping Etiquette 101. There should be no surprise by now you will encounter a tablet in your immediate future, and your face should not show distress. On a slightly different note, going to the nail salon, where there is a note that states “cash tips” are preferred, makes it even more uncomfortable. If you would prefer to tip on the tablet, because you are not carrying cash, a touchscreen tip is better than no tip at all.

When handed a prepackaged sandwich or a pastry, it’s your choice whether to tip or skip. Much like the old-fashioned tip jar, leaving extra change—or not—is entirely up to you. On the other hand, if there is work involved, effort or exceptional service that stands out, it’s appropriate to show your appreciation with a tip.

To-Go Orders

When placing a to-go order, be mindful of the time and energy a team member devotes to packaging everything up neatly and including requested condiments, silverware, napkins and more. There is an art to keeping things warm and tidy. Much like dining in, you are being provided a service and should tip accordingly.

Take Comfort in Knowing Everyone is Feeling the Pain

The person standing behind the counter is likely sensing the same uncomfortable pause as you as they wait for you to complete your transaction. Employees are also consumers and go through the same ritual when making purchases. While they appreciate your kindness, they understand the guilt and pressure and can empathize with your 20 seconds of distress before making a tip decision.

No Obligation

The bottom line is there is no requirement to leave a tip that makes you uncomfortable. If you are seated at a restaurant for a sit-down meal, a tip is part of the service, but a quick exchange at the counter requires less of a tip, but definitely the same kindness, politeness and courtesy. It’s never wrong to leave a tip – but not always necessary.

Watch my recent interview on iPad Tipping Etiquette on KTBC Fox 7  Good Day Austin.

For more information about working with Diane, America’s “Go to” social and professional (manners) skills authority, please visit The Protocol School of Texas. 

You may also like How Much Should You Tip Delivery Drivers? See what Diane is up to by following her on Instagram and Facebook. Find etiquette inspiration on her Pinterest account and keep up with her latest tweets. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, refer to her posts on Inc. and HuffPost.