News Day (a New York based newspaper) recently asked my thoughts and observations about tipping.
This is a very hot topic at the moment.
Tipping Etiquette: What You Need to Know Right Now
There is a new tipping culture and many are questioning when is it too much.
You might be asking:
How do I handle when the screen is turned to face me and requesting more money?
What about the tipping jar at the dry cleaners?
Should I tip for a grab-and-go bottle of water?
Most of us have reached the point where we are either confused over tipping or have stopped completely (except at restaurants).
The Etiquette of Tipping
First, I think you shouldn’t feel guilty if you decide not to tip once the screen turns your way.
It is a judgement call on your part.
Traditionally, as Americans, we are accustomed to tipping servers at a restaurant. And many base that on the level of service received. Most of us tip between the 15-20% range.
Since many retailers have turned to the IPad (or screens) to process transactions and as a society we have become mostly cashless, tipping has become the norm or standard whether you are paying for a pack of gum or a salad to-go. Some retailers, such as dry cleaners and sandwich shops have placed the standard tip jar by the register.
The News Day article tells the story of a consumer going into a large donut chain, orders a muffin and the screen asks for a tip.
Many are asking when is enough. The article calls it ‘tip-flation’ or ‘tipping invasion’.
The Latest on the Etiquette of Tipping
Never feel guilty or embarrassed when tipping (or choosing not to tip). Do what you think is best. If you had good service and are feeling generous, then add a tip.
When at the register, there is not a need to justify whether you do or don’t.
Smile, make eye contact and be courteous.
I will continue to add tips when I go to restaurants.
Other places, such as the dry cleaners, grab-and-go’s will be on a case by case basis.
I do believe (see my comments in the article), ultimately the business owner needs to question the act of requesting tips. They need to consider the feelings of the consumer.
If you are interested in reading the entire article, click here.
Of course, always feel free to contact us directly or make a comment below.
We love to hear from you.
Here is a FREE Guide to Help YOU Start a Business Teaching Manners to Children
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
Here are answers to our most frequently asked questions about Thanksgiving Etiquette.
Remember, Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and togetherness, so approach these etiquette questions with the aim of creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
Etiquette Tips for a Happy Thanksgiving
Seating Arrangements: How do I decide where everyone should sit at the Thanksgiving table? Should I use place cards?
This is a personal choice. Some like to separate couples to encourage others to get to know one another. Personally, I like to sit with my husband during the holidays so that we can experience the feast together.
If you choose to plan ahead and make the decision of where your guests will sit, the idea of place cards is a good idea. Place cards add to the beauty of your table setting.
When considering the seating arrangements, you may want to put out of town guest next to someone they may not have seen for awhile. Put some thought into the placement of your friends and family.
Guest Contributions: Is it okay to ask guests to bring a dish or contribute to the meal? How do I communicate this without being rude?
Absolutely, it’s perfectly fine to ask guests to bring a dish or contribute to the meal, especially for casual gatherings.
Use polite language to convey the message. For example, “It would be wonderful if you could bring a dish, but of course, if that’s not possible, your presence is more than enough.”
Dietary Restrictions: How can I accommodate guests with dietary restrictions or food allergies without making them feel singled out?
Always ask your guests ahead of time if they have food allergies or something they don’t like. Do your best to accommodate them.
As a guest, you can communicate in advance that you have certain restrictions. For example, if you are vegetarian, offer to bring a dish and share it with everyone.
Thanksgiving Toast: Is it customary to make a Thanksgiving toast, and if so, when should it be done?
Offering a toast is a personal choice. Here are a few steps to consider when toasting.
The host initiates the toast.
Toasting is usually done when the beverage is poured and each guest has been served.
Raise your glass, smile and take a sip.
Seconds and Leftovers: Is it polite to offer seconds, and how should I handle leftovers for guests?
Yes, offer your guests seconds and encourage them to partake if they would like to have a second portion.
Technology at the Table: Should I encourage or discourage the use of smartphones, tablets, or other electronic devices at the Thanksgiving table?
Put your cell phone away during the meal. You can always check for messages after the meal is over but not at the table. Excuse yourself if you absolutely must check your phone.
If you would like to take photos of the table setting, do this before the meal begins.
Thank You Notes: Is it necessary to send thank-you notes after hosting or attending a Thanksgiving meal, and how soon should they be sent?
Always say thank you to your host. Going the extra step and writing a handwritten note is such a gracious gesture.
Bringing a Plus-One: Is it acceptable for guests to bring a plus-one without asking, and how should hosts handle unexpected guests?
Always ask your host before bringing another guest.
Tidying Up: Should guests offer to help with cleanup after the meal, and how should hosts respond?
Yes, offer to help. Only once. If your host declines, then honor that decision.
Dress Code: Is there a particular dress code for Thanksgiving dinner, or should guests wear what they feel comfortable in?
If in doubt, ask the host. This is not a time to wear yoga pants and a hoodie. Dress appropriately for the occasion.
Thanksgiving Etiquette Is Not About Rules
Etiquette is not about rules. Etiquette is about making others feel comfortable. Good communication and consideration for your guests’ comfort and preferences are essential.
Here is a FREE Guide to Help YOU Start a Business Teaching Manners to Children
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
A menu card elevates a meal whether you are hosting a formal or informal gathering.
If you want to up-level your dinner (or lunch) events, then add a Menu Card.
Trust me, this will delight your guests.
Not only does it add beauty and interest to your table, it lets your guest know what to expect.
Often, when I use menu cards, my guests ask if they can take them home. It serves as a nice memory.
This one simple addition sets a beautiful tone for the meal and experience for your guest.
It is easy, I promise.
Creating menu cards for a meal at home can be a fun and creative way to elevate your dining experience.
Here’s a Simple Template and Some Ideas to Get You Started on Menu Cards
How to Create a Menu Card at Home
1.Put a Theme or Image On Your Menu Card
At the top, you can add an image, monogram, or crest. Maybe you have a theme. For example, in the photo below, you can see a Downton Abbey theme. A few years ago, I hosted an afternoon tea at my home before attending the Downtown Abbey movie.
I added an image of Highclere Castle.
Here I used a monogram (R) for our last name.
2. List Your Menu on the Card
Once you plan your menu, add that along with a brief description of the dish. Make it interesting.
Menu Card
Event: (Dinner Party, Birthday Celebration, Date Night)
You can name your event or add an image as seen above.
Appetizers
(Appetizer Name)
Description: (brief description)
Main Course
(Main Course Name)
Description: (brief description)
Ingredients: (list key ingredients)
Served with: (side dish, sauce, or accompaniments)
Dessert
(Dessert Name)
Description: (brief description)
Ingredients: (list key ingredients)
Served with: (optional, e.g., ice cream or coffee)
You can customize this template to fit your specific meal and event.
3. Print Your Menu Cards
Printing the menu cards on quality paper or card stock can add a touch of elegance to your event. (Hint – purchase card stock the same size as printer photo paper such as 4×6)
Etiquette of Menu Cards
Where to Place Menu Cards
The placement of the menu card varies. I like to place mine in the center of the plate- of course this can depend on your table settings.
The menu card may be placed to the left of the forks, on the bread and butter plate (without the butter!) or on the lunch/dinner plate. You may also use a holder which is placed above the bread or dinner plate.
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
Today, we have the answers to your most popular questions.
Did you know you can schedule a time to speak with me? Many of you use this time to ask specific questions.
We love all the phone calls and have complied a list of our most frequently asked questions.
And to make this easy, here is the link to schedule a call.
Frequently Asked Questions About An Etiquette Certification
Do I owe any fees during the three years? No, you do not owe fees or royalties during your three year term period. Here is the good news, this is a “License and Certification” agreement, not a franchise.
Do I name my own business? Yes, you name and own your business and we help you with this process. We have guided so many to a name they love and works well in marketing a business.
Can I use and leverage the Manners To Go brand on my website? Yes. Once you are certified, you will receive a certification logo from Manners To Go to signify and confirm that you are aligned with our company.
You may also link to the Manners To Go website and reference our partnership in your copy.
Once I am certified, may I still receive assistance? Absolutely, we want your business to be successful. We are here to assist and offer guidance. This is one of the most valuable offerings within our certification. We find the licensees that use the on-going support are the most successful.
Do I receive updates and revisions to the curriculum? Yes, when the materials are revised and updated, you will receive new downloads.
Where can I teach the Manners To Go program? The opportunities are endless and here are popular venues to teach your manners classes:
After school programs
School assemblies; in the public, charter or private school classroom
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
“How am I trained after I purchase the Manners To Go program” is actually one of the most frequently asked questions. It is a really good question and I am here to give you all the details. In fact, the way you are trained to start your own business teaching manners to children is one of the most acclaimed and highly sought-after reasons to become certified by Manners To Go.
Read the testimonials to see what others are saying about how they received “above and beyond” what they expected. More about that later, but you know the saying…” the proof is in the pudding”!
We offer two options for you to be trained and certified to teach manners to children.
One option is to be trained via “live” video. A second is to be trained by manners to go in person. You will discover more details about both training options in this article.
You are trained via private, real-time (live) video. That’s right. It is as if you are sitting across the desk from me. My camera is on and you can see me. You have the option to turn on your video camera. Some do. Some don’t. It is your choice. Mine is always on during our call so you can see me “live” sitting in my office. If I am having a bad hair day, you can see it! It is that clear.
During the call, you will be able to view my screen as well. This way, we can view the marketing materials together.
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You schedule the training calls. In order for you to become certified, you must complete at least four-six one-hour training sessions. You choose the dates and times of the training sessions. Some choose to schedule a session once a week. Some choose twice a week. The program is customized according to your timeframe.
Of course, ongoing support and training are always available to you during the three-year license term. Many of our licensees choose to continue their training after the initial calls. Some take a month or so to complete the marketing efforts and then connect with me so we can review certain tasks together.
Evidence has shown that those who stay in touch with us are the most successful. We encourage you to stay in touch and keep the communication open and ongoing.
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I must tell you, that a big selling point about the Manners To Go program is that it is customized for your needs. During our calls, the focus is on YOU and YOUR business. We discuss your website. Also, discuss the fees that you will charge. We discuss your logo. Anything that is on your mind, let’s talk about it.
And yes, many times we schedule training in the evenings and weekends. Many of our licensees are still working and need to have their training “after hours”.
We also have licensees all over the world and accommodate different time zones.
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You receive organized marketing guides to download before each call. You have a visual workbook/guide in front of you that we discuss in detail….together. Templates, marketing materials, and videos are all provided so that you receive a world-class relevant program and curriculum to start your business teaching manners to children.
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If you choose to have your training via video calls, you do not have the cost of traveling to a location to attend a program. This saves you valuable time and money.
My answer to her was this: “how do you like to learn”? When you are considering any type of training, whether it is to learn a new computer skill, creative writing techniques, or learning a new language, you must consider your personal preference.
My conversation with her is the inspiration for this post.
I could hear the first choice in her voice. She came alive when we started talking about the in-person/immersion option.
In my eyes, all of my licensees are special. THEY make the experience beautiful, charming, valuable, eclectic, and interesting.
Over the years, we have had our in-person training at beautiful locations.
The in-person trainings are highly customized and personal. We spend two intense days together. You learn all aspects of operating your new business.
Lunch during your two day training is included.
Of course, after the intense training, video follow-up calls are always available to you.
How Can Starting a Business Teaching Manners to Children Change Your Life?
Do you have a passion for teaching manners to children? Are you curious about what it is like to own your own business? Click here to get access to more details about how you can change your life and start a business using your skills and talents in teaching children and teens.
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
Supporting licensees as they start and grow their businesses is one of the most important aspects of becoming a licensed, certified and trained etiquette expert. On-going support is key to becoming successful.
How We Treat On-Going Support for Our Etiquette Certification Programs
And I will share with you, this is where we take great pride in the value that we offer.
This summer was a busy one for us. In a very short period we licensed and certified three exceptional women who are now etiquette experts.
And the best part….all three are getting a phenomenally fast start.
One licensee (started in August) already has a proposal submitted to teach a 20 week after school/church program. Her next meeting is in early October to solidify the details.
Another licensee (dual which means she is licensed in both our business and children’s etiquette programs) has a meeting with local country club managers to discuss how she can provide programs to their staff as well as manners classes for the children.
And yet another, has already established her brand in offering private instructions.
Needless to say, I have been so excited to schedule calls, Zooms and texts to support them all.
We are so proud of what they are doing.
You will find links below to other articles with more details on how I have supported them.
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
Lisa Richey provides etiquette programs to businesses, schools, and individuals.
