The fine art of holiday tipping
It's not when you buy. It's when you sell!If you’ve made your holiday list and checked it twice, chances are you’ve still forgotten some folks: the service providers who are expecting holiday tips.
End-of-the-year gratuities can show these folks that you appreciate the work they do for you and thank them for helping your life run more smoothly. This extra cash may help foster loyalty and, in a few instances, prevent future problems (like a building superintendent who might become sulky).
People who provide you service regularly but briefly
These folks typically get $10 to $30. The list here can include:Newspaper deliverers Parking or garage attendants Trash collectors Any regular delivery person (for food, laundry, overnight packages, whatever) People you see less often but for longer periods
These are usually the ones who are working hard to tend you and yours. The holiday tip normally equals the cost of one visit, although you can reduce that to $20 or so if your patronage is sporadic.Hairdresser or barber Manicurist Facialist Personal trainer Massage therapist Regular after-hours babysitter (not your nanny or day care worker) House cleaner (unless he or she is full-time, then see below) The lawn-care crew Pool cleaner Pet groomer Your employees
Anyone you employ more than a couple of days a week gets a bigger check, typically at least equal to one week’s pay. Exceptional or long service might boost the amount to two weeks’ pay or more. A small gift is often appropriate as well. This list includes:Nannies Full-time housekeepers Home-care attendants Caretakers People who can be strategically tipped
All tips can have an element of strategy in them, but these gratuities can make a real difference in the quality of your life. Here the range varies enormously:Building superintendent: Ask around your building. The going rate can vary from as little as $20 to $200 or more. Doorman: Ditto. Usually the range is $10 to $100. The bartender, wait staff or maitre d’ at a place you frequent regularly: Try $20 to $50 and see if your typical table location doesn’t improve.
