I’ll admit it: I’ve spent a good chunk of my life working in restaurants. Those shifts taught me a lot about how people act, especially when they’re hungry or just looking to relax. Baby boomers, in particular, have some dining habits that can really challenge servers. This isn’t about bashing age groups; it’s about awareness. Servers are busy, and they notice patterns that make their day tougher.
So, if you identify as a boomer—or just want to understand what makes servers tick—let’s dive into some common behaviors that can make dining out more challenging.
1. Getting Attention the Wrong Way
Imagine a server juggling a handful of tables. Suddenly, someone snaps their fingers or whistles. It’s not just annoying; it feels disrespectful. I saw a colleague freeze when an older gentleman snapped at her—it was clear she felt dehumanized. Instead, a simple “excuse me” or making eye contact works wonders. It recognizes that servers are people, too.
2. Modifying Orders Excessively
Dietary needs are valid and important, but overly complicated orders can slow down the kitchen and lead to errors. According to the National Restaurant Association, kitchen efficiency is vital for good service. When every item in an order has a long list of modifications, it creates bottlenecks that affect everyone.
3. Lingering After the Meal
We’ve all seen groups that settle in at a table for hours after finishing their meal. This directly impacts servers’ income since they depend on table turnover for tips. A little consideration goes a long way—once you’re done, think about heading to a coffee shop instead of monopolizing the table.
4. Not Acknowledging the Server
It’s frustrating for servers when diners are glued to their phones or conversations while ordering. Taking just a moment to look up, make eye contact, and thank them makes a huge difference. Remember, they’re trying to help, not interrupt.
5. Complaining About Prices
Imagine being shocked by your bill without looking at the menu first. One man got angry over the price of his meal, forgetting he hadn’t checked beforehand. Servers aren’t in control of pricing; it’s just part of the job. If prices are a concern, look it up before ordering.
6. Separate Checks After Ordering
Requesting separate checks at the end of the meal can complicate things for servers. Many systems can split checks, but doing it after everything is rung up means a lot more work. Mentioning this at the start makes it easier for everyone involved.
7. Leaving Pamphlets Instead of Tips
This one’s tough. Servers earn about $2.13 an hour before tips. When someone leaves a religious pamphlet instead of a tip, it doesn’t help them pay rent or buy food. According to the Economic Policy Institute, many tipped workers live below the poverty line. If you want to share positivity, do it alongside a tip.
Final Thoughts
Everyone has off days, and we all make mistakes while dining out. The key takeaway is simple: being mindful of how your behavior affects servers can improve everyone’s experience. A little kindness, patience, and recognition of their hard work can turn a stressful night into a pleasant one for all.
Next time you’re at a restaurant, ask yourself: am I making someone’s job easier or harder? That little shift in perspective can make dining out much more enjoyable. Remember, servers appreciate considerate guests, and that positive interaction can elevate the evening for everyone.
