66% of Americans Have a Negative View of Tipping

In theory, tipping should be something that makes you feel GOOD.  You’re giving someone a little extra to show your appreciation.  But most people DON’T feel good about it, because it’s become more of an expected or even mandatory surcharge.

In a new survey by Bankrate, 66% of Americans say they have a negative view about tipping . . . mostly because they’re annoyed about how it’s handled.

41% of people don’t like that businesses underpay staff so they’re forced to rely on tips for their wages.

32% don’t like having pre-entered, suggested tip screens at coffee shops and casual, counter-service food places.

15% of people say they’re confused about how much to tip, and when . . . including for stuff like hotel services, food delivery, takeout, rideshare drivers, furniture deliveries, and home services and repair people.

30% say they think tipping culture has gotten out of control.  And 16% say they’d be willing to pay higher prices if we could do away with tipping altogether.

83% of people always or almost always tip servers at sit-down restaurants . . . 42% typically start at 20% for that . . . and 72% always or almost always tip hair stylists and barbers.

But there’s more frustration for situations where automatic tips are expected PRIOR to service, like on food delivery apps . . . fast-casual dining . . . rideshare apps . . . and cruises.

(Bankrate)

(The more we’ve become a cash-less society, you can see why you’re prompted about a tip when making an order . . . because that’s when you have your wallet out and are approving a charge.)

(But you can also see why that extra amount feels more like a TAX than a show of gratitude for a job well done.)

(And why there’s more incentive for workers to offer EFFICIENT service . . . than interactive, PERSONABLE service.)