As etiquette expectations shift, here’s what to know about tipping this season
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The number of Americans tipping the standard rate is dropping
When dining out, tipping etiquette experts say 20% is the standard. However, between inflation, elevated pandemic tipping rates and businesses that aren’t primarily service-oriented requiring customers to opt out of tipping at checkout, more and more Americans are reaching tipping fatigue. This can be seen in fewer and fewer individuals tipping the standard rate. How does this affect holiday tipping? And how does it affect office gifting?
Why do people tip?
While the general notion behind why Americans tip might be rooted in getting better service or rewarding excellent service, that rarely holds true today. Many people tip out of a sense of obligation. People draw this conclusion because the quality of service doesn’t accurately translate to higher tipping rates. Many Americans tip simply because they are expected to tip. Additionally, with more businesses slipping in tipping at checkout, consumers are increasingly pressured to tip for very basic services.
Who do people tip for the holidays?
Generally, if someone provides you with regular service throughout the year, tipping is an acceptable means of showing them your appreciation. These professions include but are not limited to, a babysitter, a hairstylist, a fitness instructor, a server, a bus driver, a landscaper, a handyperson, a coach, a bartender, a teacher, a nail technician, a tutor, barista, a cleaning service, day care staff, a dog walker, a garage attendant and more.
How have expectations affected holiday office gifting?
Remote workers might only rarely (or never) physically enter the company office space. For this reason, more companies have been turning to practices such as Secret Santa gifts rather than White Elephant gifts. When partaking in a Secret Santa program, it is important to put “Secret Santa” on the address line so people know they shouldn’t open the package early. Also, remember to include a gift receipt and keep items general, fun or practical without getting too personal. This year, we’ve seen people focusing on office accessories, coffee mugs, and small home products.
Secret Santa and workforce gift ideas
This wireless iPhone charger makes powering up your phone as easy as putting it down. It is a Qi-compatible charger that works at speeds up to 15 watts.
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This beautiful salt lamp is made from hand-mined Himalayan salt crystals. It glows with a warm amber color that will create an atmosphere in any room.
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The Anker Soundcore Mini is a compact Bluetooth speaker that lets you stream music for up to 15 hours. It also features Micro SD support and AUX capability for versatility.
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Moleskine 2023 Weekly Notebook Planner
This weekly planner has 144 pages, rounded corners and a bright yellow cover. The book opens flat to make writing easier.
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Conference Call Bingo Mouse Pad
The next time you are engaged in a conference call, spice things up with a bingo mouse pad. For additional fun, you can personalize this item.
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At under 5 inches wide, this Keurig can fit nearly anywhere. It makes a 6- to 12-ounce cup of coffee in just a few minutes.
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NBC The Office “World’s Best Boss” Dunder Mifflin Ceramic Mug
This is the official “World’s Best Boss” mug that the NBC Store sells. This design was made popular by the widely loved TV show, “The Office.” It holds 15 ounces and features a large, easy-grip handle.
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The innovative design of this desk organizer lets you conveniently store pens, pencils, markers, erasers, paper clips, rubber bands, tape, sticky notes, cards, and more.
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A milk frother is a fun gadget you need to make foam for a cappuccino, a frappe, a matcha, a mug of hot chocolate and more.
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This tree ships at roughly 10 inches tall in a small 4-inch ceramic planter. It is an easy-to-care-for houseplant that helps purify the air. It is also said to bring good luck and prosperity to the owner.
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Allen Foster writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
