Undoubtedly, the topic of tipping stirs a lot of emotions and raises questions for many.
"Why should I have to pay extra for a meal I came for?" "I worked hard for this money; why should the server get it?" "Tipping feels like an unnecessary burden on the customer, making servers appear greedy and entitled!"
Well, these concerns are completely valid, but it doesn't necessarily mean they're right.
Drawing from my own experience working in the industry, I can vouch for the fact that tipping culture can be quite misunderstood.
Did you know that every restaurant in Canada operates with a 'tip-out' system? Tip-out means that serving staff are required to share a portion of their tips with other staff at the end of their shift. For instance, I've had to tip out between 6-8% of my earnings to my colleagues each night. So, I didn't walk away with 100% of the tips I received.
In fact,
If you decide not to tip, your server might end up having to use their own hard-earned money to compensate the staff. For example, let's say you go for an enjoyable dining experience, and your bill totals $175.55. If you choose not to leave a tip, and your server has to tip out at a rate of 8%, they'd have to pay $14.05 out of their own pocket. Yes, you read that correctly – your server ends up covering your dining experience if you decide not to tip.
Don't feel bad if this is the first time you're learning about how tipping works; the system isn't transparent, and it's not your fault. It's a peculiar aspect of one of the world's largest industries, and the tipping customs vary widely from one country to another. Some places don't even have the option of tipping, while others rely heavily on it. I find it remarkable that this system is so hidden, and I only became aware of it through working in the industry.
My Personal Experience: I've had slow nights when I only had two tables. One table left a tip, but the other did not. The customer who chose not to tip ended up putting me in a deficit. I had to use my own money to tip out to the staff and cover more from my own pocket. It was undoubtedly shityyyyy.
If I could offer any advice: If you're not inclined to tip, at the very least, consider tipping the tip-out amount. Don't hesitate to ask your server what that is. We genuinely appreciate customers who care enough to inquire about these things!
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