Does This Common Trick Get Servers A Bigger Tip?

man showing what servers do to get a bigger tip (l) tip jar (r)

This server shared a trick he uses to get bigger tips. Viewers are divided on whether it makes them feel seen or just uncomfortable.

Servers will understandably try what they can to boost their tips, from friendly jokes and small talk to over-the-top theatrics. In an industry where tips can make up a huge chunk of a worker’s income, it’s no wonder servers will try their best to stand out to a table.

But not every method will go smoothly and can even backfire despite the best intentions.

Why Is This Server Kneeling?

In a viral TikTok with over 619,000 views, content creator @reign100 is sparking a conversation about tipping after showing the kneeling trick some servers do to get better tips.

In the video, @reign100 exaggeratedly kneels by a table (as a skit) while taking an order and making small talk and jokes with the customers.

When they ask if he’s OK kneeling, he insists that he is, though he feigns pain seemingly to garner their sympathy.

“Oh, I’m okay. No. It’s just my knee is hurting. The floor is really hard. My knee is hurting. No. No. I like to be on the—I like to be level,” the server says.

He explains to them that the pain is worth the tradeoff of having a more intimate experience with customers.

“I like to be equal with you. You know, I wanna look eye-to-eye with you. I don’t want you to look up to me. You know? I want you to know that, you know, I don’t think I’m above you.”

But then he pretends to slip up. “I want a good tip. What? I meant, uhh…” he says.

It’s true, servers sometimes kneel at tables to make interactions feel more personal and comfortable. In some cases, it’s practical, like when showing something to a low table.

Science-Backed Ways To Get Better Tips

Here are a few ways servers can try to get better tips based on science, SciTech Daily reported:

Introduce yourself: Saying hello and giving your name makes you seem friendly. One study found a server’s average tip went from $3.49 to $5.44 just by introducing themselves.
Use friendly body language: Smiling, standing closer, or even kneeling next to a table can make customers feel more comfortable. In Houston, servers who squatted when first talking to customers saw their tips go from 15% to 18% of the bill.
Use a light touch: A quick touch on the shoulder or hand can make people tip more—often without them realizing it.
Repeat the order: Saying back what the customer ordered shows you’re paying attention. In a study in the Netherlands, repeating orders doubled how often people tipped and how much they gave.
Give compliments: Telling diners things like “Great choice!” can nudge them to tip a little more.
Offer a small treat: Giving a piece of candy or a little gift can make people feel like returning the favor. Tips were highest when the gesture felt spontaneous.