R@iney, Interesting article (Waiters observations), I disagree with them trying to get bigger tips, as shoppers are required to give the 15% and 18% for upscale. When eating out on our dime BS (before shopping), 15/20% was the
norm, hardly ever more, and in this economy, that would be diners limit. Servers should concentrate on serving, not reading their customers, do your timings, be gracious and have knowledge, the rest will take care of itself.
I read Olive Garden (never did the shop) is the worst place to work, and can verify that, as my friend works there part-time...I'd never have thought it would be worse than other chains. Just writing while having my coffee, I hope the forum police doesn't find me as I'm off topic...
Live consciously....