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The most aggravating things about being a driver

9. So-called verbal tips.


The three earlier pages showed examples of this more general term. A verbal "tip" is when the customer praises or compliments you in place of the tip.

Some people have the nerve to do this deliberately. They think it's as good as tipping for real. It is hypocrisy. If you meant what you said, you would have tipped. They did not tip, plain and simple. No amount of kind words can make up for not tipping. Their ingratitude hurts the driver like anyone else who doesn't tip.

When it's time to pay the bills, I can't compliment my landlord in place of the rent. I can't call my utilities and say, "These people said I was the best driver they ever had." Drivers recognize the forked tongue and view the compliment as a lie. I want to say, "Don't begin to tell me you're thankful. You're not thankful at all." Their actions speak louder than words.

I would feel better if these people told me something negative. That would at least be consistent with their actions. It's not right to be rude as long as you say something sanctimonious.


Last updated: June 9, 2010