Why Don't We Pay Waiters and Waitresses a Good Hourly Wage?

Often, the question arises: why don't we pay waiters and waitresses a good hourly wage? The answer to this query can be complex and multifaceted, involving societal norms, economic considerations, and labor market dynamics.

Is it Just 'Normal' Wages?

Let's start with a fundamental point: restaurants do already pay waiters and waitresses salaries. It's a matter of using the appropriate wage structure rather than relying solely on tipping. When opening a restaurant, the business owner has the flexibility to set wages, but it requires a profound understanding of the labor market and the realities of the industry.

Many restaurants opt for the tip system because tips can be seen as a variable income addition to the base salary. However, if you truly want to pay your staff fair wages, there is no inherent reason why they should not be given a standard, living wage. The decision to pay by tip or salary is a strategic choice based on expectations and market conditions.

Why Has Tipping Survived in the U.S.?

The persistence of the tipping system in the U.S. is partly due to the value of tips in the labor market. When a server is good at their job, they can earn much more than would be considered 'normal' wages. This is not just a matter of average income levels but reflects the high value placed on customer service and the emotional labor required to connect with diners.

For instance, a skilled waiter in New York can earn significantly more than the average surgeon in London. This is because of the unique blend of interpersonal skills, emotional labor, and the ability to manage service in a high-pressure environment that are essential for success in this role.

The Dangers of Tipping Culture

While tipping does allow for differentiation in wages based on performance, it also perpetuates negative stereotypes and can lead to unfair treatment of employees. In the past, in the United States, the expectation that servers would receive tips contributed to systemic biases, such as treating foreign or minority customers differently. This has led to a vicious cycle where servers' assumptions about clientele can become a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Systemic Issues

A key issue with the tipping system is the way it can reinforce stereotypes and discrimination. For example:

Homophobia: Some patrons may short tips to servers they perceive as LGBTQ . Racism: Minority servers often face more scrutiny and potential short tipping among customers with racist beliefs. Sexism: Attractive servers may be expected to lean into their good looks for tips, creating a double standard.

While many servers appreciate the ability to earn above a standard wage, the system can be profoundly unfair and harmful. These biases not only affect individual servers but also contribute to a broader societal issue of discrimination and inequality.

Alternatives to Tipping

Given the downsides of the tipping system, many argue for a shift towards restaurants paying a fair hourly wage. This approach would eliminate the potential for unfair treatment and create stability in the workforce. However, the move towards a standard wage would require a clear understanding of the minimum wage in different regions and the potential impact on business profitability.

Some would argue that forcing restaurants to pay a minimum wage is a step towards eliminating stereotypes and creating a more equitable system for service workers. The main argument here is not that tipping is inherently bad, but that it contributes to a cycle of reinforced prejudice.

Conclusion

The question of whether waiters and waitresses should be paid a good hourly wage is not black and white. While the tipping culture can be unfair and perpetuate discrimination, it also recognizes the value of good service and allows for high earners. As a society, we need to find a balance that respects the dedication of service workers while also addressing the systemic issues within the current wage model.