I work in a profession where I clean homes and receive payment by the hour. As a service provider, my income is contingent on the hours worked and the availability of jobs. You might argue that this is how it should be, but consider this: do you enjoy benefits like paid sick leave, vacation time, or the ability to work flexibly while still receiving a stable paycheck? If you’re on a salary, you have to perform your duties well to maintain your position, but you likely enjoy more job security and flexibility compared to service and gig workers—especially given the economic upheaval caused by the pandemic.
While service workers strive to deliver quality service, it’s essential to tip generously when you benefit from that service. Tips alone may not cover all living expenses for many in the service industry, but they certainly help bridge the gap between low hourly wages and the ability to pay bills.
According to a recent Harris Poll, 19% of Americans reported that they are tipping less now than before the pandemic. This decline isn’t just due to fewer outings; it reflects a reduced amount per dining experience. A study from One Fair Wage revealed that 80% of restaurant workers have experienced a drop in tips, and 40% reported increased harassment from customers. Some of this backlash stems from customers’ frustrations over mask mandates, which can affect their perception of service. Moreover, the shift towards contactless delivery has fostered a disconnection that allows some to rationalize not tipping at all.
This past holiday season, I too saw a noticeable decline in tips. Many of my long-standing clients, upon whom I relied for extra support, chose not to tip. I take pride in the quality of my work, which didn’t diminish this year, but my patience did. From March to June, many clients were understandably hesitant to allow me into their homes, and I was also busy navigating my children’s virtual schooling. While numerous friends could work from home and still receive paychecks, I was left without that option.
I maintained communication with families, reserving spots for them until I was able to resume work. I always wear a mask while cleaning, and I request that clients do the same. However, working in homes with children and adults juggling their own tasks often makes my job take longer than anticipated. Unfortunately, I don’t get compensated for delays caused by clients or for time spent stuck in traffic. If I need to call in sick or if a client cancels, I don’t get paid for that time. I must remain flexible, polite, and charming to keep my clients.
Tips signify appreciation and acknowledgment of the extra effort involved in providing quality service. They offer some financial cushion during the holidays or compensate for the times clients cancel due to other commitments. While I won’t reduce my effort regardless of whether I receive a tip, the lack of them this year made me feel undervalued, especially given the risks I took to work during a pandemic. And please don’t justify the lack of generosity by claiming financial constraints due to COVID-19. Many of these clients have mentioned the savings they’ve accrued from not traveling or participating in activities.
If you can afford luxuries that enhance your life, you can certainly afford to tip your barista, hairdresser, house cleaner, food server, hotel staff, Uber driver, and manicurist. This isn’t up for debate; it’s a reality. What some deem as conveniences are privileges that many don’t have, and while I hate relying on tipping, I also wish for my efforts to be recognized. Despite varying economic situations, mutual respect can be established.
To clarify, my clients aren’t terrible people, but sometimes, I don’t feel valued. Those who truly respect me see me as more than just hired help. They leave thank-you notes, suggest rescheduling instead of canceling, and express their gratitude through tips and paid time off. One client even paid me for every missed visit due to COVID-19, which brought me to tears. They had budgeted for my services and recognized my need for financial security during uncertain times. Their kindness made me feel valued and cared for, reminding me that clients ultimately determine my income.
If you believe that service providers shouldn’t be tipped just for “doing their jobs,” apply the same reasoning to salaried employees regarding bonuses. Simply remind your boss that you’re already receiving your agreed-upon salary. Alternatively, you can choose to tip your service providers, acknowledging the effort they put into making your life easier and supporting their right to a living wage. For more insights on home insemination and related topics, check out this other blog post.
Search Queries:
- Why should I tip service workers?
- Impact of COVID-19 on service industry tipping.
- How to show appreciation to service providers.
- Importance of tipping in the gig economy.
- Ways to support local service workers.
In summary, it’s critical to recognize the hard work of service workers through adequate tipping. Their livelihoods often depend on these gestures of appreciation, and acknowledging their efforts fosters mutual respect between clients and providers.
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