A TikTok video from a frustrated server has sparked debate about tipping etiquette.
The server, Emma, known as @iheartveggiecorndogs, expressed her disappointment with a customer who complimented her service but left only a 10% tip.
Emma’s video has received widespread attention, raising questions about tipping practices in the U.S.
Emma expressed frustration after a customer gave a 10% tip
In the viral TikTok video, Emma shared her frustration with a customer who praised her performance but left just $10 on a $100 bill.
She described the situation as “so rude” and said, “If you tip 10%, but tell me everything was great, that’s incredibly frustrating.”
Emma emphasized the contradiction between receiving compliments and a minimal tip.
Emma said in her video: “I just want everyone to know that if you tip 10 percent, but before you tip 10 percent, you say, ‘oh my god, thank you so much,
everything was great and we had such a great time, you made me feel great,’ and you suck my t*****s with praises, and then you tip me 10%?
“That’s so rude.”
She called out customer for 10% tip despite compliments
Emma expressed that she would much prefer a customer to confront her directly with harsh criticism, such as calling her “ugly” or “stupid.”
She explained that even if they said it was the worst service they had ever experienced, leaving a $10 tip on a $100 bill would be more acceptable.
She explained that she would respect this more because the person was honest and direct.
However, if someone praised her but tipped only 10 percent, she admitted it would frustrate her enough to want a confrontation.
“I would so much rather that and respect it because you looked me in the eyes like a person, and you stood up to me.
“But no, if you actively tell me, ‘you did a great job’, and then you tip me 10 percent [I] want to fight you out back.” She explained.
Social media reaction
Many viewers supported Emma’s stance. Others pointed out that the 10% tip Emma received would be divided among several staff members, further reducing her share.
Another commenter sarcastically referred to the situation and criticized Emma for her reaction to the customer’s tip.
One person said: She has such a rude and demanding attitude, maybe she should find a different job.
A second wrote: You are mad at the wrong person your employer must pay you you should be thankful that you have customers and tips even small ones
While a third commented: 10% tip in the US is considered acceptable. Most wouldn’t tip unless they were absolutely impressed with the service.
Someone else said: I thought 10% was customary? I can do a smash around the mouth instead though, it’s easier
The impact of tipping on service workers
In the United States, tipped employees typically earn $2.13 per hour, with tips making up the rest of their income.
Under federal law, the combined wage must reach at least $7.25 per hour.
However, in some cases, tips are shared among the staff, including bartenders, busboys, and hosts, reducing the server’s earnings even further.
Financial services company Bankrate recommends customers leave a 15-20% tip for good service.
Servers often rely on these tips to make a living, and anything below 20% may be viewed as a sign of dissatisfaction.
Emma’s TikTok video brings attention to the struggles faced by tipped workers in the U.S.
Despite receiving positive feedback, many servers, like Emma, often feel undervalued when tips don’t reflect the quality of service provided. The debate surrounding tipping practices continues.
What did you think about Emma’s tipping?