How we change what others think, feel, believe and do

Number Rounding

Techniques > Tipping > How to Get a Bigger Tip > Number Rounding

Description | Discussion | See also

Description

When making recommendations, take into account the effect in terms of how the bill will be paid, and manipulate the amount so it is natural for the customer to just give you a rounded up sum. In this, remember that people often prefer to round to tens, though they may also round to fives. Whatever the level, it is often associated with common currency notes.

For example if the total to pay including the standard tip is $48, then many customers will typically round it up to $50.

Discussion

When it comes to paying, customers generally do not like this process and want to get it over and done with as soon as possible. They hence will seek easier ways of calculating the tip and paying you.

Rounding numbers makes calculation easier. It also makes payment easier if the customers is going to pay in currency rather than with a credit card.

Men are likely to be more generous in rounding than women, especially if the server is an attractive woman. This is caused by basic evolutionary forces that lead men to want to appear powerful and attractive. This is amplified further when there are several men together as they will compete for appearing the most generous.

See also

The Coinage Effect, Young Male Syndrome