Waitpersons' Shared Culture
Factors Affecting Tipping
The informants indicated that they believe several factors affect the amount tipped. The waitpersons interviewed tended to perceive the amount of their tip to be a function of the customer (some people simply tip more than others) as well as 8 function of their own performance. Therefore, contrary to previous findings, waitpersons believed the quality of service does affect tip size. Further, situational factors were seen as playing a significant role in the size of the tip. Informants indicated that the same person may tip differently in various situations. For example, a person may not tip well when alone, yet tip a greater percentage when with others