With tipping fatigue on the rise and many Canadians frustrated by tipping culture, this guide will help you decide when to tip, how much, and why, without guilt or pressure. It’s a general guide, of particular value in restaurants. It’s to get you thinking about what constitutes tip-worthy service. There are more factors to consider but at least look over the following points.
Before You Tip: The Basics
- Did the server check in on you at least once while you were eating?
- Was your water refilled or offered without you having to ask for it or flag them down?
- Were napkins, condiments, and cutlery provided without prompting? Or were they at least offered?
- Did your server appear attentive and respectful throughout the experience?
- Were any issues or delays addressed professionally? Remember that an issue in the kitchen is often unrelated to the waiter’s ability to serve your meal. Don’t take it out on the waiter in such cases by leaving a smaller tip. Similarly, if you don’t like the food, it’s typically not the waiter’s fault so don’t lower the tip for that reason.
When You’re Tipping: What to Watch For
- Is the tip being calculated on the pre-tax amount? (Tip: In Quebec, it must be by law.)
- Are you able to choose a custom tip amount, or is the payment screen trying to push you toward higher defaults?
- Do you feel the service reflected the standard you’re tipping for (15%, 18%, 20%, etc.)?
Know Your Boundaries
- Did you feel guilted into tipping more than you intended?
- Are you tipping based on service or just because of social pressure? The social pressure aspect is a tough one. It’s probably the strongest reason most people who don’t want to tip (or tip a lot) do it anyways. Don’t let social pressure ruin your outing. Remember that at the end of the day, this is your money that you can choose to part with or not. No one can tell you how to spend your money.
- Do you want to support the staff, but not the way the system exploits you as the one paying their wages? If you have a problem with this view, then take it up with your boss, not the customer.
Optional, But May Be Helpful
- Consider leaving a short note or feedback for management (positive or constructive).
- Support places that pay fair wages and don’t pressure guests into tips through machine defaults.
- Share tipping awareness with friends so they understand how it really works.
The Final Tip
You’re allowed to be generous and mindful. A fair tip should reward good service and not fill the gap left by bad business models.
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