Why You Should Tip

The question "Why tip?" has been debated for years. In this article, we'll explore the reasons behind tipping, the factors that influence it, and guidelines to help you navigate this social custom. We'll also briefly explain the standards of tipping within the Tradebank network, and its participating members.

The Value of Tipping

Supporting Industry Workers

The service industry goes above and beyond to ensure that their employees provide exceptional service. Customers usually show their appreciation for the effort and time invested by tipping. It's surprising to note that some service-based workers rely heavily on tips to make ends meet. For instance, servers earn a meager $2.13 per hour before tips, and shockingly, only seven states mandate servers to earn minimum wage before tips.

When it comes to other service professionals, you’re showing them a generosity that says,  "Hey, I really appreciate what you’re doing for me. Thank you for spending 90 minutes working those knots out of my back, thank you for making sure my car was not damaged and parked efficiently, thank you for doing a fabulous job on my hair, thanks for carrying my bags to my room."

Encouraging Good Service

Tipping also serves as an incentive for service workers to provide excellent service. A good tip can be a tangible way to express appreciation for a job well done, motivating workers to continue putting in their best efforts.

Personal Philosophy

Ultimately, your personal beliefs about cash tipping will influence your habits. Some people believe that tipping is a crucial way to support service workers, while others feel that employers should pay a living wage and eliminate the need for tipping.

Tipping as a Tradebank member

Full-Service Restaurants

20% cash gratuity (calculated on pre-tax amount) is required.

Take-Out Orders

10% cash gratuity is required.

Salons & Spa Services (non-medical)

15–20% cash gratuity is required.

Transportation

15–20% cash gratuity is required for limo services.

Coffee Shops & Bakeries

While not required, a 10% gratuity is greatly appreciated, particularly for large or complex orders.

Important: If you experience service that doesn't meet expectations, we encourage you to speak directly with the business owner or manager rather than withholding gratuity. This approach helps resolve issues constructively while maintaining positive community relationships.

Great service deserves lasting recognition. Tipping rewards it immediately, but thoughtful reviews provide ongoing support for our Tradebank members by showing appreciation and helping attract new customers.

When we follow these policies and actively support one another, both through fair tipping and positive feedback, we create an environment where every Tradebank member feels valued and motivated to continue participating in our trading community.

Thank you for being part of what makes Tradebank special!