How much should I tip on a massage service in Athens, GA
How much should I tip on a massage in Athens, GA?
It’s the end of your massage, you’re floating on a cloud and then you face the credit card processing machine. “How much should I tip?” You think, trying not to ruin your massage-induced buzz. Tipping can be awkward. Here are a few steps to help you determine the appropriate tip amount for your massage service in the Athens, Georgia area.
What environment are you in?
In a spa or salon setting, tipping is often expected. This is because the massage therapist is receiving only a percentage of the income from the spa. Some clinics, such as Massage Envy are also structured in this way. The tip is considered a major portion of the therapist’s wage. The expected tip on a massage in the Athens area is $15 - $25 per service. A $20 bill left at the front desk leaves a smile on the therapists face and they know you have appreciated their work.
In a private practice where the therapist is directly receiving the full income for the service, tipping is less common. While it may still be appreciated, the therapist should be charging what she feels comfortable charging for her work. A tip is not expected in a private practice, and in some practices, there is a policy which discourages or declines tips. Referring a friend to a private practice or a good Google review is a great way to show appreciation for your favorite private practice therapist!
In a chiropractic clinic, tips are not usually expected. Similar to a private practice, massage therapy performed in a chiropractic office is akin to medical care.
In a student massage clinic, tips are disallowed by law. Massage therapists in training (before they obtain a license) cannot receive any compensation for massage services. Doing so voids their insurance coverage for the session, and puts their future license in jeopardy. Your receiving their less-than-perfect massage is all the compensation they need—your willingness to help them learn and helpful feedback about the service is enough.
What if the service wasn’t good?
Massage therapists in certain settings do rely on the income from tips to make their full wage. Just like in a restaurant, you would probably still leave something the server even if the service was less-than stellar. We recommend leaving a small tip—perhaps $10 on a service that was only so-so. The make sure you book with a different therapist next time. You can also choose to leave the therapist some feedback discretely, at the front desk or to the therapist directly. Try to avoid leaving scathing reviews online, as these stay around for a long time and can harm someone’s livelihood.
Should I tip in cash or card for a massage in the Athens, GA area?
Cash tips are appreciated for massage therapists for several reasons. Credit card fees are charged on tips left on on the machine. Cash tips are also usually kept in envelopes for therapists, and therefore go directly to the therapist who worked with you rather than being split up among other staff.
