In total I waited on 50 tables. The methods that I tested included smiles, last names, mints and personal touch. I also recorded my normal service tips to act as a constant. Much to my surprise, normal service ended up as my highest percentage at 19.99 %.
- I drew 17 smiley faces on tickets and that resulted with a 19.29% average.
- I thanked 11 guests using their last name when presenting their credit card for signature. This resulted in a 19.56% average.
- I dropped mints on 7 tables and this resulted in the lowest percent with 16.31%.
- I also touched the shoulders of the paying customer 7 times. This resulted in a 17.26%
Some conclusions that I have drawn include:
- I think that I would need to do this test a lot more time to get a better estimate.
- Maybe people think that when you give them mints, you are insulting them for their bad breath?
- Touching people on the shoulders in an invasion of personal space.
- Customers expect great service when dining at The Bistro.
- A majority of the customers expect to tip 18 – 20% always.
