Tipping: over tip for poor service

Think back to the last time you had poor service while dining out. Did you tip? Did you tip less than normal in hopes the waiter/waitress would get the message? If you did tip less than the norm you are probably reinforcing unwanted behavior. Think about it, will the waitperson remember you fondly or are they more likely to think you are a miser and that you deserved the less than adequate service you received? 

If your intention is to make a point you should over tip. A waitperson usually remembers someone who tips above the norm, especially after poor service. In fact they will probably feel a bit guilty about their treatment of you. So, the next time you dine with them they are far more likely to take better care of you than if you under tipped previously. 

Over tipping for poor service seems counterintuitive, yet it makes perfect sense. Wait staff get paid primarily through tips and it is in their best interest to develop relationships with those patrons who tip well. So, if we tip well we get treated well.

Obviously, this suggestion only makes sense if the restaurant in question is one you plan on patronizing again.