Live Uncomfortably

Still aren't following me on Twitter? What are you waiting for?

If you’ve been following my business pursuits over at TalkMuse.com, you know that I’m currently working on an ebook for the James Bond niche. I thought I’d share a short section from the book on tipping like a real man.

I used to struggle to justify the money ‘wasted’ on tipping and never knew how much to tip to whom. That is until I did some research. I know tipping is something a lot of guys aren’t comfortable with. So I hope this might help.

Tipping properly is essential for living the James Bond lifestyle. Tipping not only shows that you’re a gentleman but also serves an important function in social dynamics. He who tips holds power.

In the beginning of the movie Dr. No, Bond is seen playing baccarat. After winning he casually tips the dealer. Then, as he’s exiting the casino, he slips the doorman a bill.

In nearly every movie James Bond is shown tipping very casually. Master this art and people will notice and respect you.

Tipping & Social Dynamics

In a study done in 1976, a university professor sent Christmas cards to a sample of strangers. The response he received was staggering—holiday cards addressed to him came pouring back from people who had never met nor heard of him.

The great majority of those who returned cards never inquired into the identity of the unknown professor. They received his holiday greeting card, and they automatically sent cards in return (Kunz & Woolcott, 1976).

This study demonstrates the power of reciprocity. If someone gives you something, you feel a strong urge to repay the favor. Tipping will spur reciprocity.

You’ll command the respect of people if you tip well. You should especially pay attention to this if you frequent certain places - i.e. restaurants, grocery stores, hotels.

Service workers will automatically think highly of you. And in the future, if you bring a date or friends around, the people you’ve tipped will treat you well and raise your social value.

Tipping is a symbol of status.

Tipping Rule: Always have small bills at hand.

Small bills aren’t just for strippers (and by the way, the best strategy for attracting strippers, if you’re into it, is not to give them any money at all and tell them that from the beginning - but I digress).

Always keep small bills on hand and easily accessible when you are out on the town. There are countless opportunities to tip and everyone who receives a tip will not only be grateful, but also feel differently about you.

Tipping Guide - How Much To Give To Whom

Remember that this is only a guide. Tipping is dependent on the service. If the service is horrible you’re not obligated to tip a great amount. Use your discretion. Just know people are always judging.

1. Restaurants -
Tip at least 20% in restaurants. Don’t think about it, don’t take out a calculator, just divide the bill by 5 and tip that amount.
2. Coat Check -
$1 or 100% of the bill
3. Valet -
$5 depending on the car and your bill. If you tell him to take special care of it, obviously tip a bit more.
4. Washroom attendant -
Give him a $1. Most guys scurry out of the bathroom with their heads down trying to avoid contact. Don’t do this. Make some small talk, check yourself out, spray some cologne, take a piece of gum and tip the man.
5. Bartenders -
Bartenders should get at least $1 per drink. If you want to make friends with the bartenders fast - which is a good idea if you frequent the place - then tip big. A bartender who likes you is a very powerful indicator of social proof to a woman because the bartender is the most popular person in the room. Start making friends with the service.
6. Club Bouncers -
Here’s a trick I learned from a friend of mine. As you enter a club for the first time ask the bouncer if he wants a drink. This will create a relationship you can exploit to skip big lines on other nights. If the bouncer declines a beer on entry, try to chat him up as you leave, and then slip him $5 thanking him for everything.
7. Coffee Shop Baristas-
When you pick up your morning coffee make sure to leave a $1 tip in their jar. Make it discreet but noticeable so they’ll remember you in the future.
8. Hairstylists -
Go to a good hairstylist and give them at least $5 or 20% if the bill is over $25. The person working with your hair is always someone you want to keep happy. And make sure you talk about something interesting with your hairstylist. Don’t talk about the weather.
9. Cab drivers -
Cab drivers get $1 if the bill is under $10. 15% if over $10. I always tip bigger to cab drivers who actually seem like they enjoy life and talk to me. Happy people are rewarded with happiness.

The point - just start tipping everyone well. Your wallet might be a little bit lighter as a result but your perceived status will go through the roof.

The money you spend tipping will come back to you in time. Generous people receive generously.