Tipping really seemed to have had a roller coaster of a ride through the pandemic. Folks were tipping more while they kept earning the same amount and were working from home with fewer expenses. Then the world opened back up and the service industry went a bit bonkers. Add that to nutso inflation making the average cost of eggs sky rocket from $1.50 a dozen in January to $4.20 in October. Generous tipping has seen a severe decline and going into the holiday season it affects most people – both the giver and the receiver.
There are two really good articles that give you the nuts and bolts of tipping and those links are below. Emily Post is always a great place to start when it comes to etiquette. And I do find it interesting the Wall Street Journal got in on the action this year, very telling.
I’m not going to give you the comprehensive list, you can see that in the articles below, but I am going to share two themes from the articles. First, tips are a thank you, whether it is money, a gift, or homemade cookies. The point is to show appreciation for someone who has provided a service to you and made your life better. Second, time matters. If you work in the service industry, you are mostly a cash-basis person and getting money before you have to holiday shop is oh-so helpful. As the giver, please don’t wait until Christmas Eve to say “Thank You”.
If Only Extra – cash tips are always appreciated since time matters. Certain restaurants tip out credit card tips with the paycheck every two week vs. the time of service. I now write “CASH” in the tip line and leave tips in cash when I can.
Holiday Tipping Guide — Emily Post
Holiday Tipping 2022: Your Guide to Who, When and, of Course, How Much – Buy Side from WSJ