Pif And Waitstaff/servers

[bmillicent]

I've heard quite a lot about the PIF with drinks at coffee houses and such. But does anyone ever buy pens to accompany gratuities at restaurants/bars? Not instead of a tip, but in addition - after all, writing implements are tools of the trade and tend to disappear . . .

 

Or is this a one person campaign?

[Wrathen]

I do it with my companies ball point pens it helps them out and hey might get a bit of business

[bmillicent]

Yep. But my M.O. is to buy the better quality non-advertising pens by the dozen expressly for the purpose of distribution. Often, people will try to give them back when they see they aren't dollar store throwaways. They think I forgot my pen. Nope - it's yours, but try not to let the next customer nick it

Admittedly, they are purchased when on sale. It allows more generosity. Maybe I was just so traumatized by an event a few years ago. I purchased a beverage at the counter of a local coffee house and paid with my plastic. They wanted a signature on the receipt but couldn't locate a pen, a marker, a pencil. Finally they produced a crayon! How in the world they functioned was beyond me. I had used Sharpies before, but this was a first. Since it was a "to go" order, I didn't go fish out a pen from my bag. Now I have spares at the ready.

[TXKat]

I like the idea and I have left pens in the past...on purpose!!

I think it's a great idea!!

[bmillicent]

Oooh - so glad to know that! Sometimes I get the strangest looks from friends/family

[TXKat]

Just tell them it's part of the tip and a bonus!

 

Random acts of kindness...in a way!

[HollyGolightly]

That sounds like it would be fun to be on the receiving end of! It's also a very unique and memorable gesture. I can't imagine anyone would be able to forget it!

[amberleadavis]

I have given away more than one nice ballpoint in that manner.

[Princeps Anglorum]

It's also a very unique and memorable gesture. I can't imagine anyone would be able to forget it!

Agree. But can also understand that some might be genuinely surprised.

[Arkanabar]

Probably would not have helped me much as a server; I had to write orders in red, on a duplication pad.

[Princeps Anglorum]

Have to say that I admire that lady's skill on the skateboard too. Never been able to stay on one for more than two seconds even if it was standing still ....!!