It's Saturday night, and you just want a big, fat, juicy steak. No, not one you dried out on the grill because you were too busy air drumming the awesome drum solo from Moby Dick by Led Zeppelin on the back porch. You're talking about the 25-dollar steak in town that only the presence of Bobby Flay himself would make it taste even better than it already does. This is when you come see someone like me: a waitress.
I love being a waitress. I enjoy giving people the service and the attention they deserve with a positive attitude. Although, with that being said, I do feel there are times where we are under appreciated. What we do, as servers, is a tall order. This doesn't imply other occupations aren't just as difficult. Although, when your job revolves around pleasing your customers and waiting on them hand and foot it tends to take a toll on you.
Being a server is like this: You are juggling tennis balls while walking on a balance beam. Table one needs two refills while table two’s food is ready to be delivered. Table four is waiting for their check just as table six is ready to pay theirs. This all takes place while table eight is being sat and is awaiting your greeting. What is the value of “x”?
Most waiters and waitresses take on about six or seven tables at a time and even more on busy weekends. It averages out to at least 20 people at one time. This goes without saying, we rarely have time to use the restroom let alone grab a bite to eat! Now, I don’t know about anyone else, but I eat ALL the time. I love food more than Beyoncé. I know how dare I say that, but when I have to skip a meal or five I get a little “hangery” (anger due to being overly hungry). It doesn’t seem to help much being around delicious food without your name on it. Don’t worry. We forgive you for tempting us with your big, fat, juicy steak… maybe.
So let me ask you a question. If the tables were turned (pun intended) and the waitress had to tip you, how much do you think you deserve? Are you grateful, engaging, and appreciative for a whopping 20 percent? Are you understanding and patient for a decent 18 percent, or are you closed off and ignorant for the bare minimum 15? We know great service is imperative, but for us to be our best, you have to earn your own tip.
