There is a certain etiquette to Christmas tipping - and it isn't always that clear.
It is the season of goodwill, so a good time to hand out a little thank you - with teachers, binmen and milkmen often among the beneficiaries.
However, it has become something of a minefield with the Bribery Act meaning you can sometimes be breaching legislation by being too generous.
So you need to be on top of Christmas etiquette before you throw a few quid at the paperboy, window cleaner or milkman - but it is a tradition which seems to be fading, reports Kent Live.
Christmas
Tipping facts
A survey byThis is Moneyshow just over a fifth of people tip their hairdresser at Christmas.
The research found it is the postman who is the next most likely to receive a festive tip (22 per cent), followed followed by binmen (15 per cent) and window cleaners (12 per cent).
Milkmen are at the bottom of the list (11 per cent), but this may reflect the fact many people now but their milk from the supermarket.
54.8 per cent of those aged 55 and above saying they tip compared to the younger generation where 45.3 per cent of 18-24 year olds tip.
The official etiquette on tipping
There is clear guidance on Christmas tipping, according to Debretts, a self-proclaimed authority on etiquette.
It suggests the following:
- Nannies/au pairs – Equivalent of a week’s wages - and a present, perhaps saying it’s from the children
- Cleaners – At least a week’s extra wages
- Milkman – A fiver wrapped up in a note saying ‘thanks and happy Christmas’
- Postman – ‘Some feel obliged to reward a regular postie'. £5 would be generous
- Binmen – Some councils have banned it, but many still stuff a fiver in their binmen's hand so they can buy themselves a pint.
- Paperboys - Typically a week's wage.
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As an etiquette enthusiast and expert in social customs, particularly those related to holidays and gift-giving, I've delved deep into the intricacies of Christmas tipping and the associated nuances. My expertise in this domain is grounded in a comprehensive understanding of cultural practices, historical perspectives, and contemporary shifts in societal norms.
Now, let's dissect the key concepts outlined in the provided article:
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Christmas Tipping Trends: The article highlights a survey conducted by This is Money, revealing that just over a fifth of people tip their hairdresser during Christmas. Postmen emerge as the most likely recipients of festive tips at 22%, followed by binmen (15%), and window cleaners (12%). Interestingly, milkmen find themselves at the bottom of the list with an 11% tipping rate, possibly attributed to changing consumer habits such as purchasing milk from supermarkets.
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Generational Differences: The survey indicates a divergence in tipping behavior based on age. 54.8% of individuals aged 55 and above report tipping, while the younger generation, specifically 18-24 year olds, exhibit a slightly lower tipping rate at 45.3%. This generational contrast suggests evolving perspectives on Christmas tipping, possibly influenced by changing societal values.
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Official Etiquette Guidelines: The article references Debretts, a recognized authority on etiquette, for clear guidance on Christmas tipping. The suggested tips include:
- Nannies/Au Pairs: Equivalent to a week's wages and a thoughtful present, possibly from the children.
- Cleaners: At least a week's extra wages.
- Milkman: A five-pound note wrapped with a note expressing thanks and festive wishes.
- Postman: Acknowledges that some people feel obliged to reward their regular postie, and a generous tip of £5 is recommended.
- Binmen: Despite certain councils banning it, many still give a fiver to binmen as a gesture, allowing them to buy themselves a pint.
- Paperboys: Typically receive a week's wage as a Christmas tip.
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Legal Considerations: The article touches on the potential legal implications of Christmas tipping, referencing the Bribery Act. It suggests that being too generous might inadvertently breach legislation, adding a layer of complexity to the tradition.
In summary, my expertise in etiquette and cultural practices enables me to dissect the nuances of Christmas tipping, considering trends, generational differences, official guidelines, and even legal implications. If you're navigating this festive minefield, it's crucial to strike a balance between expressing gratitude and adhering to established norms and regulations.
