In certain cultures, including the U.S., it is customary to tip for a job well-done. In a surprising number of professions, employees actually make the majority of their money from tips, making the custom that much more necessary. Tipping is a way to say “thank you” for working so hard, or “thank you” for going above and beyond what was expected. In most cases tipping is simply the polite, socially acceptable thing to do, and in others you’re obligated because of how much effort a person has put into their work.
Many of us can feel awkward, or even confused when it comes to tipping. Who do you tip? How much? How often? These are all questions we’ve asked ourselves, and sometimes we’ve had the wrong answers – which is also awkward. Here’s some advice for tipping so you can show your appreciation for all the hard workers you rely on everyday.
1. Flower Delivery
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When having flowers delivered, it’s always nice to tip the delivery person $5. You’re already happy because of the flowers, so spread the joy.
2. Tattoo Artist
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Tattoo artists are highly skilled individuals as precision is 100x more important given the permanent nature of tattoos. As a thanks, tip your tattoo artist 10-20% of the total cost of your tattoo.
3. Dog Groomer
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Dogs look so adorable when they come back from the groomer, and usually they’re very happy to be clean. Say thanks by tipping your dog groomer 15% of the cost of the session.
4. Electrician/Plumber
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Tipping plumbers or electricians isn’t customary as they typically work on a contracted and agreed upon price. They also don’t rely on commission. If, however, your plumber or electrician completes an extra difficult job and does it in an excellent manner, you can and should give them a couple extra bucks.
5. Barber/Hair Dresser
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Much like you don’t want to mess with the people who serve your food at restaurants, you definitely want to tip your barber or hair dresser well if you plan on getting your hair cut (well) by them again. Between 10-20% of the cost of the haircut will suffice as a tip.
6. Bartenders
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For a good bartender, you want to tip $1-$2 per drink, or 15-20% of the final bill. You never know, you could end up with a free drink or two along the way!
7. Hotel Housekeeping
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For those hardworking men and women that make sure your hotel is fresh and clean every time you return, you should tip at least $2-$3 per night.
8. Movers
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While it depends on the amount and weight of the stuff they moved, but don’t let your team of movers head out without giving them at least a $20 tip for their hard work. More if they didn’t break anything.
9. Taxi/Limo Driver
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Being a taxi or limo driver is no easy job – it takes a lot of memory and driving skills. You should definitely tip your driver for getting you where you’re going on time. The recommended tip is 15-20% of the total cab fare.
10. Car Wash Attendent
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There’s nothing like having a nice, clean car. Show your appreciation by tipping the attending around $5 when leaving.
11. Tour Guides
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A good tour guide deserves a good tip – 15-20% of the cost of the tour will do.
12. Tow Truck Driver
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When you get into an accident and your car is totaled, a tow truck driver is a lifesaver. Even if your insurance company pays for the service, they usually don’t tip. Give your tow truck driver a nice tip of around $5.
13. Handyman
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Usually, when you have a particular contractor who has done a lot of work on your home, it’s nice to provide a nice bonus around the holidays if a project is being done. At minimum, a good tip would be $15-$20.
14. Spa Services
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A tip of 15-20% of the final bill is good for tipping whoever gave you that incredible mani-pedi.
(via TripAdvisor/iTipping/Homessive/USNews)
Now, the next time you need to tip someone you’ll have a better idea of what to do. Tips may not always be required, but trust me, they are always appreciated.
