In the restaurant industry, tips are not just a small bonus—they are often essential for the service staff. In France, the culture of tipping differs from that in the United States, where leaving up to 20% of the bill is common since servers largely rely on tips for their income. In France, due to "service compris" (service included), tips aren’t always expected unless the service was exceptional.
However, just because the tradition of tipping is evolving doesn’t mean it’s impossible to encourage more generous tipping. So, how can we promote larger tips despite the downward trend and growing digitization of payments? This is where well-thought-out strategies and innovative digital tools come into play.
What is the current state of tipping in France?
In France, tipping isn’t as entrenched as it is in some other countries where it’s part of the service. Although the French are less inclined to tip systematically, that doesn't mean tipping doesn’t exist. It’s often left to the customer’s discretion and depends on various factors such as service quality or dining occasion. Some regions, like Occitania, are known for being more generous, often influenced by high tourist traffic. Foreign visitors from tipping cultures, such as Americans, Germans, and Brits, contribute significantly to this practice in France.
Approximately 1 in 5 tables (or a maximum of 20% of patrons) in France leaves a tip at restaurants. Occitania is the second most generous region, where tips are given about once in three instances, averaging 4.5% of the total bill.
5 strategies to increase tips
Here are some simple yet effective techniques to encourage your customers to leave more generous tips:
- Personalized service
Addressing customers by their first names or including a small thank-you note on the bill can create a personal connection. This attention to detail can make a significant difference. - Smile and positive attitude
An authentic smile is invaluable. Studies suggest that servers who smile receive, on average, 20% more in tips. (Source: Zenchef) - Gestures of gratitude
Offering a little something extra, like an after-dinner drink or dessert, pleasantly surprises customers and often leads to increased generosity. - Tip suggestions on the bill
Presenting suggested tip amounts (10%, 15%, 20%) directly on the bill can simplify the decision for customers and increase the likelihood of tipping. - Personal notes
A handwritten message like "Thank you for visiting today!" shows customers you care and may encourage them to leave a larger tip.
Well-managed teams: The key to increased tips?
Some management tips for your server teams can help them earn more tips. Here are the results of our research.
#1 Introduce yourself
Many researchers have found that introducing oneself is an excellent technique to increase tips. This was also revealed in a 1990 experiment, which divided servers into two groups: in the first group, the servers welcomed customers with, “Hello, my name is Amélie, and I’ll be taking care of you today. Do you know what you would like to order?” In the second group, the servers did not provide their names.
Result: The first group collected 23% more in tips. It goes without saying that the introduction should be as natural and warm as possible.
#2 Ladies, wear red
Did you know that the color of clothing can affect behavior? The generosity encouraged by this color is confirmed in an experiment conducted by two behavioral scientists involving over 700 customers at French restaurants, which showed that men tipped waitresses dressed in red an average of 15 to 25% more. Red lipstick also proved to be an effective tool.
Unfortunately, gentlemen, wearing red benefits only women! So don’t be surprised if your carmine-colored attire does not elicit any special gratuity.
#3 Stand out
In an article titled “She Wore a Flower in Her Hair: The Effect of Ornament on Non-Verbal Communication,” researchers Stillman and Hensley found that waitresses who incorporated a flower into their hairstyle received higher tips than others. More generally, it has been proven that customers are more willing to tip those who wear an accessory than those who do not.
#4 Perfect the final touch
The last impression is crucial: numerous studies show that individuals are heavily influenced by what they heard or saw last when judging the quality of their experience. Therefore, server behavior at the very end of the meal can deeply impact the customer's overall impression and the tip they leave.
For example, a study showed that servers who wrote “Thank you” on the bill received more generous tips than those who did not.
#5 Express appreciation
One of the best ways to positively influence a customer is to show your appreciation. Social psychology clearly establishes that we tend to appreciate those who appreciate us. A study even demonstrated that when a person feels appreciated, they instinctively become very favorable towards the person who appreciates them.
For restaurant teams, this can translate into pleasant words directed at diners, such as, “It was a pleasure serving you today; have a wonderful day!” (You can even write this on the back of the bill if you can’t say it verbally) or complimenting them on their choice while noting their order.
#6 Offer disinterested advice
Social psychologist Robert B. Cialdini found that servers who guided their customers' choices in a detached manner, steering them towards less expensive options, achieved favorable outcomes. The idea is that with each order expressed, they speak to the customer in a confidential tone: “I’m afraid this dish may not be the best today; I recommend opting for dish A or B, which are very popular tonight.” The uniqueness of the advice lies in the fact that both dishes A and B were less expensive than the originally chosen dish.
The aforementioned researcher explains that by “combining the factors of reciprocity and credible authority in one elegant maneuver, the server significantly increases their chances of boosting their tip”; indeed, they inspire trust in the customer, who sees them as honest and trustworthy.
Many other factors can also favor better tipping, such as repeating the order (a 68% increase) because it is a sign of trust and competence, telling a funny story (not funny stories work too), complimenting, offering extra treats at the end of the meal because it gives diners the impression of special treatment, scribbling a smiley on the bill, or wishing for good weather...
Suggested or forced tipping in restaurants?
Some clients may react negatively to "suggested tipping" prompts on card terminals; it can be perceived as "forced." Similar to suggested rounding-up at some supermarkets, the practice is debated.
In an article by Le Parisien, a customer shared: "The waitress put the terminal in front of me, suggesting I add 1, 2, or 5 euros. It felt uncomfortable, so I declined."
Advice: Instruct servers not to press clients during payment. Consider discussing this moment in team meetings to avoid making customers uneasy.
The role of Zenchef in increasing tips
At Zenchef, we know that every detail matters for a memorable experience, which can encourage higher tips. Our solutions integrate features that make the payment process smooth and enjoyable while enhancing the overall guest experience.
- Simplicity and accessibility
Our table payment solutions minimize friction, encouraging generosity without customers even realizing it. - Predefined tip options
Offering set tipping percentages simplifies the tipping decision, increasing the chances of receiving tips. - Enhanced client experience
A quick, seamless payment process contributes to positive experiences, translating to more substantial tips.
Tipping in the digital age
As digital payments rise, the way customers tip evolves, presenting new opportunities:
- Ease of Use
No need to search for change. With a few clicks, clients can tip directly on a tablet or smartphone. - Privacy and Comfort
Online platforms offer discreet tip selections, encouraging generosity. - Efficiency and Speed
Digital payments quicken service, heightening satisfaction, and satisfied clients are more likely to tip.
Advantages for customers: Digital tipping offers ease, safety, and flexibility, allowing tip selection as a percentage or specific amount.
Advantages for restaurateurs: Digital tipping simplifies management, saves time, and keeps the restaurant in line with technological progress.
Don't miss the chance to transform your restaurant and increase tips with Zenchef.
-> Request a free demo now and discover how our solutions can reshape your daily operations and client interactions.
