While I usually rely on tips from my customers, I figured that the last weekend of my waitressing career would be the perfect time to share my tips for those on the receiving end of my (or any server for that matter) customer service. These are all based on my experiences, though of course I haven’t used any names or identifiers. Enjoy, and always appreciate the hard work those in the food industry go through to make your dining out experience exceptional!
- Please don’t blatantly ignore me when I approach your table and ask a question. You came to a restaurant that offers full service; if you don’t want to talk to anyone or have someone interrupt your dinner conversation, cook at home or order take out.
- This may sound a bit rude, but if you can’t afford the menu, please don’t come. I completely understand wanting a nice night out, but when I want a nice night out, I find someplace within my means. Using an expensive menu to justify tipping me poorly is simply unacceptable.
- Don’t sit in my section for several hours during rush if you’re not ordering something. As much as I want to make your experience incredible, refilling your water for an hour after I bring you your bill while there are customers up front waiting for a table isn’t only rude to me, it’s rude to them as well.
- While I’m thinking about it, sitting in my section for an hour sipping on water is never acceptable, unless you actually tip on that hour of time.
- In many restaurants, paying your bill doesn’t mean your server is allowed to leave. We have to stay and clear the table before we’re allowed to go home for the night. Which means when you’re sitting in my section until 1 a.m., I’m staying there too. Be considerate, most of us have been on the floor for hours at that point and are utterly exhausted.
- Unless I completely ignore you (which I never have) 10% is NOT an acceptable tip. I make $2.13 an hour, all of which goes to taxes. Servers, myself included, literally survive off of tips. So when you’re feeling a bit greedy, we suffer.
- On that note, always tip well on a first date. Not only do I think you’re lame when you don’t, it’s very likely that the girl (or guy) you’re trying to charm does as well.
- My name is Jordan. I told you that the first time I walked up to your table. Unless you’re over the age of 75, please don’t expect me to answer to honey, baby, sugar. It won’t happen.
- Drinking is never an excuse to act like an idiot. Enough said.
Have any of you ever been servers? Feel free to add any of your own 'tips' below!
Labels: work