I have been working in the restaurant business since I was 15, being a server is one of the most common profession in our nation, especially for younger people still in school like me. Yet, I am constantly surprised by how little people know about the restaurant life. Even more so, it appalls me how some people do not feel a need to leave their servers a tip when going out to eat and still expect good service.

1. Many people are surprised to learn that servers get paid between $2.00-$3.17 an hour. Because servers are tip based workers, restaurants are not required to pay the required minimum wage. People accept this practice when going into the restaurant business because they understand that they should get paid based on their performance. So, when someone decides not to leave a decent server little to no tip, it feels as if you are taking away from their livelihood.

2. You will be branded. If you plan on maybe going back to the same establishment to eat again, you will definitely want to tip a decent amount, or it will be noted that you did not. And not only will your server know, they will most likely tell/complain to the other servers they work with how they had been stiffed by you, and next time you come in, there will be complaints and groans and no one will want to take care of you or your party.

3. If you do not tip simply because of a long wait time for your food, you should be aware that things like that are not in the control of your server, but in fact, the kitchen. Your server is probably vying for your food to come out in the back, but sometimes the kitchen gets backed up and it's hard to rush cooking if you still want good food. Just be mindful of these things. There is a difference between bad customer service,and bad circumstances.

4.If you cannot afford to leave a few bucks (or 20%) to your server, then you probably should not go out to eat. Or perhaps, consider going to places where workers are paid a regular wage and tips are not expected (e.i most delis,food courts,food trucks,ect.).

5.They do not expect that much.While yes, it is nice to get an above 20% tip (if you are feeling up to make someone’s day, just leave a really good tip-trust me they will appreciate it), you can avoid being rude simply by leaving a few bucks.

6. They work extremely hard. While there usually are not many certain qualifications you must acquire to become a server at most restaurants, it is pretty demanding job. You put in long hours, you are on your feet all day, deal with all kinds of crazy requests, and crazier customers. People look down on you. You get covered in other people's food. You walk around with your stomach grumbling while serving food to strangers, all with a smile on your face.