A Cuban esthetician living in the United States has sparked a lively debate on TikTok after posting a video criticizing the reliance on tips in certain businesses. In her message, she directly called out business owners who depend on this system for income, stating: "Tipping is a way of saying thank you, let's be clear, it's gratitude. I own a business, I serve my customers, and I would never, under any circumstance in this cursed life, ask a customer, like many salons and places do—it's shameful and disrespectful: 'Are you going to leave a tip?' I'm not leaving you anything," expressed Marlan Vázquez in her impassioned commentary.
The video was shared by Vázquez on her account, @marlan_estudio, where she further added: "If you're a business owner and you rely on the tips your clients leave to make a living... you are pathetic, you don't manage your business finances, and you don't know how to do calculations, and that's that."
The responses poured in quickly. Some users supported her views: "Couldn't be explained any better"; "She's absolutely right"; "Finally, someone who thinks like me." However, others pointed out that not everyone's situation is the same. "I'm a waitress, and we don't have a salary; we depend on tips"; "My husband is a waiter in California, and although he relies on tips, he knows that without good service, he can't expect much"; "In delivery jobs, if it weren't for tips, drivers would be working for nothing."
Criticism was also directed at establishments that almost demand tips. "We went to a Chinese restaurant, and the waitress asked for a tip as if it were mandatory"; "They even turn the card reader screen around to make you choose a percentage. If you leave 6%, they give you dirty looks. It's outrageous."
The debate remains ongoing. What do you think? Should tipping always be optional, or has it become another obligatory part of service?
The Tipping Debate: Key Questions Answered
Why do some businesses rely heavily on tips?
Many businesses, particularly in the service industry, pay low base wages and rely on tips to supplement their employees' incomes. This system allows businesses to keep costs low, but it also places financial uncertainty on the workers.
What are the arguments against mandatory tipping?
Critics argue that mandatory tipping undermines the purpose of tips, which is to reward good service. They also point out that it can create pressure on customers and lead to an expectation rather than a gesture of appreciation.
How does tipping affect service quality?
Proponents of tipping claim that it incentivizes better service as workers strive to earn higher tips. However, others believe that it can also lead to inconsistent service quality, as employees might prioritize customers they perceive as likely to tip well.