In this class, we discussed the appropriate tipping etiquette for various services, providing a guideline for how much to tip in different scenarios.

Base Service Tipping Guideline

Remember it’s your decision, consider the person as your independent contractor you have hired for a particular services; some recommended amounts from experts:
Wait staff: Tip 15-20% for good service, 25% for exceptional service, based on the pre-tax amount.
Bartender: $1 per beer, $2 per mixed drink.
Food delivery: $3-5 per delivery.
Coffee: $1 in the tip jar is standard; more for exceptional service.
Taxi/Rideshare: 15-20% based on the quality of service.
Car valet: A $5 tip is generally appropriate.
Hotel maids: $2-3 per night, more in upscale hotels; tip daily.
Hair salon: 15% tip is customary.
Grocery delivery: Consider 15%, as they use their own car, etc.

Tipping During the Holidays:

Set the guidelines as “up to” a certain amount. For most that is the cost of one service (hair, nails, cleaning person, etc) or one week or work (home health care worker)

Handling Tipping Dilemmas:

Not satisfied with the service - first speak up, then ok to reduce tip percentage, but don’t stiff
If restaurant has no tipping policy - pay a compliment to manager about your server
If person your with tips poorly - speak up if you can, or be discreet and tip server on the side

International Tipping Customs:

Research tipping customs of the country you are visiting, as each country has its own norms. World Travelers of America's Worldwide Tipping Guide can be a useful resource.
Each country has their own customs and cultural biases regarding tipping. PLEASE research the country you are visiting. Website to help you start World Travelers of America:.Worldwide Tipping Guide