Who should you REALLY be tipping this holiday season? The answer might shock you!
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As the festive season wraps us in its warm embrace, the spirit of giving becomes more palpable, and with it, the annual conundrum of holiday tipping. It's a tradition that has long been a part of our culture, a way to express our thanks to those who make our lives a little easier throughout the year.
But as the cost of living rises and our own financial belts tighten, the question of who to tip and how much becomes increasingly complex. So, who truly deserves the extra gifts this season? Let's unwrap the layers of this debate and provide some guidance that might just surprise you.
The topic of holiday tipping is as varied as the snowflakes that might soon adorn our windows.
A recent social media discussion ignited a fiery debate, with opinions ranging from generous tips for doormen to the staunch stance that no additional money should be given for services already compensated by a wage.
One social media user suggested a tiered approach: $200 for the most interacted-with doormen and $100 for those less seen.
Another user shared a more personal touch, giving $250 to favorites, $100 to others, and adding homemade cookies and heartfelt cards into the mix.
Yet, there are those who argue against the practice, viewing it as an unnecessary expectation on top of the salary these workers already receive.
“If they want me to give them bonuses, then charge me more rent,” one commenter remarked, highlighting the tension between gratitude and obligation.
A Bankrate survey involving 2,403 U.S. adults revealed that one out of three Americans feels tipping culture has become excessive.
With many still paying off debts from the previous holiday season and living paycheck to paycheck, the financial strain is real.
Despite these hardships, 80% of respondents said their primary motivation for holiday tipping was to simply say thank you.
This sentiment underscores the emotional aspect of tipping—it's not just about money; it's about acknowledging the value of someone's work and presence in our lives.
According to etiquette experts, the most common recipients of holiday tips are those who regularly contribute to the care of our homes and families: maintenance workers, childcare providers, teachers, mail carriers, door attendants, delivery drivers, and sanitation workers.
Diane Gottsman, a national etiquette expert, advises tipping those who provide loyal service, but also emphasizes the importance of staying within one's financial means. The amount can vary, but it should be more than spare change.
For example, restaurant delivery and ride-share drivers typically receive a 20% tip, while door attendants and repair workers might receive $20-$100, depending on the service level.
Housekeepers, landscapers, and garbage collectors generally receive a tip equivalent to one week's pay. “If you can afford those luxuries, then you can afford to tip,” etiquette expert Karen Cleveland asserts.
Interestingly, the propensity to tip during the holidays also varies by generation and income. Higher-income households are more likely to tip, while Gen Zers and millennials tend to be better tippers than baby boomers, with Gen Z leading the way in median tip amounts.
At The GrayVine, we believe in the power of thoughtful generosity. Tipping is a personal decision, one that should be guided by your financial situation, the quality of service you've received, and the relationship you have with the service provider.
Source: @catystanko / Tiktok.
Here are some tips for thoughtful holiday tipping:
1. Prioritize Regular Service Providers: Consider tipping those you see frequently and who go above and beyond in their service.
2. Be Creative: If money is tight, think of other ways to show appreciation, such as homemade gifts or a heartfelt note.
3. Stay Within Your Means: It's the thought that counts, not the amount. Don't feel pressured to match what others are giving if it's not feasible for you.
4. Spread Joy: Remember that tipping is about expressing gratitude. A warm smile and sincere thanks can be just as valuable.
5. Share Wisdom: Discuss holiday tipping with friends and family. Sharing strategies can help everyone navigate this season with grace and ease.
How do you approach holiday tipping? Do you have any tips or traditions that could help others? Share your insights and experiences in the comments below!
But as the cost of living rises and our own financial belts tighten, the question of who to tip and how much becomes increasingly complex. So, who truly deserves the extra gifts this season? Let's unwrap the layers of this debate and provide some guidance that might just surprise you.
The topic of holiday tipping is as varied as the snowflakes that might soon adorn our windows.
A recent social media discussion ignited a fiery debate, with opinions ranging from generous tips for doormen to the staunch stance that no additional money should be given for services already compensated by a wage.
One social media user suggested a tiered approach: $200 for the most interacted-with doormen and $100 for those less seen.
Another user shared a more personal touch, giving $250 to favorites, $100 to others, and adding homemade cookies and heartfelt cards into the mix.
There's a fierce debate occurring over who should receive holiday tips and how much should be given. Image source: Pexels / RDNE Stock project.
Yet, there are those who argue against the practice, viewing it as an unnecessary expectation on top of the salary these workers already receive.
“If they want me to give them bonuses, then charge me more rent,” one commenter remarked, highlighting the tension between gratitude and obligation.
A Bankrate survey involving 2,403 U.S. adults revealed that one out of three Americans feels tipping culture has become excessive.
With many still paying off debts from the previous holiday season and living paycheck to paycheck, the financial strain is real.
Despite these hardships, 80% of respondents said their primary motivation for holiday tipping was to simply say thank you.
This sentiment underscores the emotional aspect of tipping—it's not just about money; it's about acknowledging the value of someone's work and presence in our lives.
According to etiquette experts, the most common recipients of holiday tips are those who regularly contribute to the care of our homes and families: maintenance workers, childcare providers, teachers, mail carriers, door attendants, delivery drivers, and sanitation workers.
Diane Gottsman, a national etiquette expert, advises tipping those who provide loyal service, but also emphasizes the importance of staying within one's financial means. The amount can vary, but it should be more than spare change.
For example, restaurant delivery and ride-share drivers typically receive a 20% tip, while door attendants and repair workers might receive $20-$100, depending on the service level.
Housekeepers, landscapers, and garbage collectors generally receive a tip equivalent to one week's pay. “If you can afford those luxuries, then you can afford to tip,” etiquette expert Karen Cleveland asserts.
Interestingly, the propensity to tip during the holidays also varies by generation and income. Higher-income households are more likely to tip, while Gen Zers and millennials tend to be better tippers than baby boomers, with Gen Z leading the way in median tip amounts.
At The GrayVine, we believe in the power of thoughtful generosity. Tipping is a personal decision, one that should be guided by your financial situation, the quality of service you've received, and the relationship you have with the service provider.
Source: @catystanko / Tiktok.
Here are some tips for thoughtful holiday tipping:
1. Prioritize Regular Service Providers: Consider tipping those you see frequently and who go above and beyond in their service.
2. Be Creative: If money is tight, think of other ways to show appreciation, such as homemade gifts or a heartfelt note.
3. Stay Within Your Means: It's the thought that counts, not the amount. Don't feel pressured to match what others are giving if it's not feasible for you.
4. Spread Joy: Remember that tipping is about expressing gratitude. A warm smile and sincere thanks can be just as valuable.
5. Share Wisdom: Discuss holiday tipping with friends and family. Sharing strategies can help everyone navigate this season with grace and ease.
How do you approach holiday tipping? Do you have any tips or traditions that could help others? Share your insights and experiences in the comments below!
