If you’re considering a career in the restaurant industry, particularly as a waiter or waitress, it’s essential to be aware of the difficulties that come along with it. Dealing with difficult and impatient customers, enduring long hours on your feet, and facing the reality of low pay are just a few of the challenges you may encounter.
Low Wages and the Tipping System
One of the biggest concerns for restaurant workers is the low pay. In the United States, the federal minimum wage for tipped employees is significantly lower than the standard minimum wage. In 21 states, servers are paid as little as $2.13 per hour before tips[1]. This wage is far from enough to meet their basic needs.
According to The Wall Street Journal, nearly 15% of the country’s 2.4 million waiters and waitresses live in poverty, compared to only 7% of all workers. This means they are more likely to need public assistance and less likely to have access to benefits like paid sick leave or health coverage[1].
The Unfortunate Reality of Inadequate Tips
Despite the expectation of receiving tips, there are customers who are simply rude and decide to leave little or no gratuity for their servers. This disrespectful behavior was exemplified when Taylar Cordova, a waitress, received no tip on a bill totaling $187.43. A standard 15% tip would have amounted to $28.11[1].
Sharing her frustration online, Cordova aimed to raise awareness about the way these hardworking individuals are mistreated. Her post went viral, accumulating over 12,000 shares on social media[1].
The Ripple Effect of Not Tipping
When customers neglect to tip or leave an insufficient one, they often fail to consider the consequences. Cordova’s heartfelt caption shed light on the impact of their actions. She expressed how such behavior affects her ability to provide for her daughter, stating, “This is one less basic necessity my daughter needs because even TWO more dollars is too much for you”[1].
It’s crucial to understand that servers rely on tips to supplement their meager wages. Many of them earn between $2-5 per hour, depending on their employer. Next time you’re hesitant to tip, contemplate how challenging it would be to support your own family on such a low income. Could you pay your bills or put food on the table? These are the realities faced by servers who go unappreciated[1].
The Future Outlook
Thankfully, there is hope for improvement in the industry. Some states, including New York, have already taken steps to increase or eliminate the lower tipped minimum wage, while others are in the process of making similar changes[1]. This adjustment is necessary considering that by the end of this year, the restaurant industry is expected to employ about 12.9 million people, which accounts for 10% of the U.S. workforce[1].
So, the next time you dine out, remember the hard work and dedication of your servers. It’s important to show appreciation by leaving a fair and reasonable tip. Let’s make sure that everyone, regardless of their occupation, can make a decent living and provide for their families.
Please share this article with your family and friends to raise awareness of the challenges faced by waiters and waitresses in the restaurant industry.
