Sometimes it can be hard to gauge whether someone who works in the service industry is dependent on tips. That was certainly the case for TikTok user Addysen who was shocked when her baggage attendant tried to pressure her into leaving a tip while checking her bags at the airport.
Addysen found the situation to be unsettling and even went so far as to characterize the service she received as "rude". The TikToker has since caused quite the stir after posting a full clip recapping her experience.
See her TikTok below:
As a member of the service industry herself, Addysen feels airport staff are taking tips a bit overboard. She is quick to justify her position by pointing out she had to already pay $400 for her flight and $35 for her bags.
While checking her bags, she recounts a service member first mentioned to her she is able to pay with her credit card but can only tip with cash. Addysen's initial reaction to this suggestion was confusion in regards to having to leave a tip for her checked bags.
However, while continuing on with the payment process, she claims the service member then pressed on.
"What would you like to leave for a tip?"
At this point, she was completely taken off guard.
"What? What? What am I tipping this man for? Like he was so rude to me."
Despite her experience, the comments section was a mixed bag on who was in the right.
Some pointed out outside baggage handlers are a third party service which does entitle them to tips.
@addydrake98/Tik Tok
@addydrake98/Tik Tok
@addydrake98/Tik Tok
@addydrake98/Tik Tok
While others agree tipping in the service industry may be getting to be extreme.
@addydrake98/Tik Tok
@addydrake98/Tik Tok
@addydrake98/Tik Tok
@addydrake98/Tik Tok
Addysen has since communicated she did not know curbside baggage handlers are expected to receive tips.
However, she also does have an overall distaste for "tipping culture."
"I do think tipping positions like that are a way for companies to not pay their employees fairly, so I don’t agree with that. While I will tip skycaps in the future, I think companies should up their pay so that it’s not on the job of the consumer."
Judging from her post's reactions, it seems many may agree with her sentiment.
@An_Enemy_Within/X