Maybe I'm ruining it for everyone, but when I've gone to New York's budding "no tip" restaurants, I've thrown a cash tip on the bill.
Guess what happened next? I was asked my name, and the next times I went, I got seated faster, comped chef's recommendations and a generally friendlier interaction with my server. Same thing happens abroad, where the locals don't tip well.
I don't understand how people get shocked by fundamental rules of incentives.
(Side note: this works everywhere. No, I don't put cash on my banker's or retail clerk's counter. But I do make an effort, particularly when doing things they'll earn a commission on, to do my business with them. In exchange for the minor hassle I have a better experience and get an enjoyable relationship out of what would otherwise be drudgery.)
Guess what happened next? I was asked my name, and the next times I went, I got seated faster, comped chef's recommendations and a generally friendlier interaction with my server. Same thing happens abroad, where the locals don't tip well.
I don't understand how people get shocked by fundamental rules of incentives.
(Side note: this works everywhere. No, I don't put cash on my banker's or retail clerk's counter. But I do make an effort, particularly when doing things they'll earn a commission on, to do my business with them. In exchange for the minor hassle I have a better experience and get an enjoyable relationship out of what would otherwise be drudgery.)