Sometimes the pro tip...is don't tip. Who knew?!

Earlier this week we asked what is the average tip for full-service, quick-service, and delivery meals? But what if you venture outside of the U.S.? A common misconception is that the practice of tipping is only expected in the United States. Even though that's not true (tipping happens in many places all over the world), the amount you're expected to tip while abroad can be wildly different from here in the U.S. Check out this world map from Visual Capitalist that shows what percent tip is considered acceptable all around the world. Or in some cases, like in Japan, that it's downright rude to leave extra money.

Questions:

• What are some factors that might influence the varying acceptable tip percentages for service in different countries?
• How do cultural norms and economic conditions play a role in determining these percentages?
• Why do you think tipping is considered impolite in Japan, while it's a standard practice in the US?
• Imagine you're a server in a country where tipping is not common. How might your approach to customer service be different compared to working in a country where tipping is a significant part of your income?
• Discuss the potential pros and cons of a service charge being automatically added to bills instead of relying on individual tipping. How might this approach affect both customers and service industry workers?
• Discuss the ethical implications of tipping. Is it fair that the responsibility for a service worker's income falls on the customer's shoulders?

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Want your students to practice being savvy spenders? Check out NGPF's Consumer Skills unit.

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Looking for more interactive resources? Be sure to check out the NGPF Interactive Library. 

About the Author

Ryan Wood

Ryan is the Partnerships and Adoption Manager for Next Gen Personal Finance’s midwest region. He brings his experience as a former teacher, curriculum designer, and sales and marketing professional to state organizations and school districts in supporting the implementation of their personal financial education efforts. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and earned his teaching credential from Saint Mary’s University in Winona, Minnesota. He proudly taught at two rural high schools in Wisconsin before transitioning to curriculum design at NGPF, and is now excited to be on the front lines in delivering the best possible financial education in the midwest. He and his wife have three beautiful daughters, each of which inspire him to share the impact of being sound financial stewards both at home and as lifelong learners.