Tipping: A Moral Obligation or a Voluntary Gesture?

The little things we do for people can go a long way to make their day. It may be a kind word, a smile, compliment or even a tip. Tipping is basically giving out money as a thank you for great services even though you’re not supposed to do that. Recently, there has been a surge in the number of restaurants and hotels in Ghana. Most people love to eat alone, go for dinner or hang out with their friends at bars or restaurant and it’s normal to see most of these places packed up, especially on weekends.

Even on random days, you’d find so many people spending time at such places. Knowing my people, I’ve come to learn that tipping isn’t something regular here in Ghana. You’d just know from the joy on a waiter or waitress’s face when you tip them that they don’t get tipped regularly . I’ve heard people say it’s their job and so why do they need to be tipped for something they’re already being payed for.

Honestly,most of these waiters, waitresses and bar tenders don’t earn much from the job they’re doing. They are literally up and running all day serving people only to payed a measly sum if money for all their hard. They receive no sort of allowance like other jobs get to enjoy which makes me sad. Tipping them might probably not add much to what they are already making but it’s a step towards helping the in a way.

Imagine being waiter at a huge restaurant and you are being tipped $5 per customer. Let’s even assumed you serve between 40 to 50 people a day. That’s actually a lot of money. In Ghana, I haven’t come across any restaurants that adds tips to the bills but I know it happen in other countries, especially when you’re in a group. You’re likely to pay between 20-25% of the total sum as tip when you have a bunch of people hanging out and given the number, it’s obvious you’d be attended to by more than one person.

Dealing with humans can be very difficult at times and with being a waiter or a waitress, it can even get a lot worse because some customers most at times act out of character and you’re expected to be the bigger person all the time. Personally, I think everyone of us should try their best tip anytime they go out to eat . Even if it’s not much, still give it as it will go a long way to help the other person. Sometimes, the person my not even need it, but it’s also a way to appreciate them for the services.

In recent times , I think Ghanaians are starting to adapt to the whole idea of tipping which I think is good. It goes a long way to encourage the waiter of waitress to serve better as it’s a form of motivation for them. Tipping is not bad, if you have the means , why not?

all images belong to me.