I'm currently a waitress and would like to know if some of you other servers have little tricks to increase tips. I've found that giving little dollar store toys to fussy kids and having my nails done (clean and hygienic looking, I guess) greatly increases my tips.
Please, no customer suggestions unless it's unique because no offense, but if you haven't served, you probably don't get it. Most of you will give me vague, common sense responses like "Be prompt, friendly, and make sure my drink is always filled, etc." and well, those are "DUH" answers...obviously I'm not thinking "Oh, I think I'll let them sit there with an empty glass for a while and I think I'll just stand here for 20 minutes instead of greeting them".
2007-10-13 05:06:25 · 7 answers · asked by Disposable Hero 2 in Business & Finance ➔ Careers & Employment ➔ Food Service
Well, a few things that I have learned over the years is...
Like after running someones credit card, if you say,"thank you mr/mrs. ...." they appreciate that you noticed and took the time to call them by name.
And to wear a faint but nice smelling perfume or body spray always helps...nothing in excess of course but just a little fresh scent.
Of course, if you can be relaxed and enjoy the table...make jokes(not like a stand-up comedian)and have a good time with them it helps too.
Thats all i can come up with...everything else is just doing your job...you know like the "duh" things. Best wishes to ya hun...
2007-10-13 05:18:08 · answer #1 · answered by aguilar_laurita 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have been a waitress for 8 years and the only advice i can really give you is if you work in a small town kinda thing, build a relationship with them. Let them talk to you, tell you their stories, etc. I know you probably have a 1000 other things to do but people seem to really appreciate it when you take the time to listen, it makes them feel special and that you are giving them extraordinary treatment. I have found that they tend to tip better because of this and then next time they ask to be seated in your section. Good Luck!
2007-10-13 07:44:37 · answer #2 · answered by kari_girl84 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I served for awhile and tips are something to really work for. A good way to increase your tip is by cracking jokes and keeping your table laughing. Special attention to kids is always a plus, so props to you for thinking of giving them toys. Also it depends on where your working. I worked at a burger joint before, and typically there, people dont see it as worthy to tip since its not high class. I then worked at an Olive Garden, and since the atmosphere is classier there people tipped MUCH higher. Sometimes its beyond your control when it comes to that.
I wish I could give more advice but itd prolly be all the generic stuff you already know. Servers though are always shafted when it comes to tips. Good luck with it all!
2007-10-13 05:13:07 · answer #3 · answered by magiklydelischis 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I waited tables all through college and some advice I can give is to make sure the diner gets what he/she ordered. So many times I saw other servers recalled to the diner's table because a side was missing or wrong. Also, be extremely knowledgeable about the menu and how each item is prepared.
Behave as though each diner is a guest in your home, and that you enjoy your job.
I hope I've helped.
2007-10-13 05:17:56 · answer #4 · answered by artistagent116 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
BRT with them a little bit. (Build a Relationship of Trust) Meaning, take half a minute to get to know them: Heading out to the mall later? What are you 2 out doing today? What are you celebrating? etc. Make it seem really personable. That way, people see you as a person, a friend, etc, not just a waitress who is supposed to bring them their drink. They will feel more inclined to not stiff you on the tip.
2007-10-13 05:13:19 · answer #5 · answered by Barefoot 6 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Smile! Sometimes a little flirting helps too, as long as it done with a sense of humor.
2007-10-13 05:15:29 · answer #6 · answered by Miss Redwing 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Haha I don't know how ethical this is but....
When I was a waitress, during my first week, someone yelled at me and I started crying...I went back on the floor, red and swollen eyes...and the next table gave me a nice tip...
Pretend to be upset...use visene (however u spell it) and appologize to your table, and tell them some story about why you are upset....make them feel sorry for you.
2007-10-13 05:13:08 · answer #7 · answered by humanbeforeamerican 3 · 0⤊ 4⤋