The holidays always brings about one subject that causes more discussion than any other topic we discuss: TIPPING.
For many, tipping is the one way we can show gratitude for a years worth of high quality, over the top service. There are many who take pride in their work, enjoy serving all of us (even though they are getting paid), and are just great people. Giving a little extra to show your appreciation can go a very, long way.
Diane Gottsman is a pseudo expert on etiquette who has appeared on many news programs and runs the popular website The Protocol School of Texas. An annual tradition is her holiday tipping guide to help you give ‘appropriately’.
How to ‘holiday tip’
Before you tip consider how you are going to recognize great service. According to Diane here are her Top 5 moves you can do to make that tip even more special
- Believe it or not, cash is not always appropriate for tipping. Some individuals are not allowed to accept cash such as USPS workers, government workers, medical professionals and so on. Always check beforehand to see what is permissible. For example, if giving to your local career firefighters who work 24/7 through the holidays you can give a gift card to the local grocery store to assist them in paying for their Christmas Day meal.
- Tip early so your recipient can use the money for their holiday shopping. Only give gift cards if you are certain they will use them. As we have discussed in our ‘Rock On The Money’ podcast, billions of dollars go wasted over un-used gift cards.
- Place your tip in a card, gift bag, or wrapped. Make it thoughtful and special. When giving cash try to use new, crisp bills from your local bank.
- Consider a charitable donation to an organization that the is near and dear to the recipient’s heart. Many non-profits will send a handwritten ‘thank you’ card to the person the donation was placed in the name of.
- Not everyone can receive a tip in any form! Aways check beforehand. People such as Shipt Personal Shoppers, curbside grocery delivery people, restaurant deliverers, and those third party delivery drivers for Uber Eats, Postmates, Door-Dash and others.
Who gets tipped and how much?
According to Diane’s tipping guide, here is a list of her recommendations as to who should be considered for a tip and what amount is appropriate:
- UPS – drivers are allowed to accept smaller gifts and cash.
- FedEx – No cash or gift cards. Only smaller gifts up to $75.
- US Postal Service – No cash or gift cards. Gifts up to $20.
- Newspaper Delivery – $10 to $30.
- Garage Attendant – $10 to $50 based on cost in your area.
- Handyman – $20 to $100.
- Doorman – Consider multiple doormen at same address. $20 to $100.
- Trash Collection – Give personally. If government collection check with the local entity for the rules. If private you can give $10 to $25 per worker.
- Teacher – No cash. Gift certificates or group with other parents for a class gift.
- Nanny – Equal to one week to one month pay.
- Hair stylist – Cash or gift card equal to one visit.
- Personal Trainer – Cash or gift card equal to one visit.
- House Cleaning / Keeper – Cash or gift card equal to one visit.
- Pool Cleaner – Cash or gift card equal to one week’s service.
- Lawn Care – Cash or gift card equal to one week’s service.
- Dog Walker – Cash or gift card equal to one week’s service
- Dog Groomer – Cash or gift card equal to one visit.
- After School Instructor – Cash or gift card $25 to favorite coffee shop
Diane’s ‘skip’ list (maybe cookies instead)
- Lawyer
- Tailer
- Chiropractor
- Dentist
- Doctor
What do you think?
Do you agree with this list? Let us know and we’ll play or read your comments on the show. Call 989-888-ROCK (7625) and record your thoughts or just email us to podcast@rocklandusa.com
