This is an open letter to "tipping.org" [also submitted on their feedback section] on their chart that was featured on CNN.com's money section as to how NOT to tip your barista. Naturally, outraged, I wrote them. Hopefully they change their advice on this, but at least I can say I tried...
"I was really appalled to find CNN had listed your site as the reference on a recommendation for tipping on various services. One of the only services that was listed as "No Tip" was your "coffee shop staff". This is absolute GARBAGE. As having been a barista for 5+ years, I find this unacceptable. Yes, granted it works the same way as waiting - if your server sucks, don't tip well, and at a coffee shop I'd say at all. But I had people day in and day out, buy $5 drinks and, whether difficult or kind, they didn't tip; I always thought it was rude. I couldn't afford a $5 coffee every day on my wage. The most I ever made hourly was $8.5, after five years in coffee. These people put up with some of the worst attitudes and treatment, and I'm really offended and shocked, - outraged! that you wouldn't recommend a tip to a coffee slinger. Really?
Maybe go out and do it for a day, on an insanely busy morning shift that starts at an ungodly hour, and see how not getting tipped feels. Then suggest that people shouldn't tip. I doubt you'd hold your stance. And so I highly suggest your website change it."
