With the rise of digital payments, tip screens have become a popular way for businesses to encourage gratuities. Whether you’re at a coffee shop, a restaurant, or getting a haircut, these screens make tipping as simple as a tap. However, setting up an effective tip screen takes a bit more than just showing a few percentages. The way a tip screen is designed and displayed can significantly impact how much customers are willing to tip—and how comfortable they feel doing so.
In this guide, we’ll go over some of the best practices for setting up a tip screen that not only maximizes tips but also creates a positive experience for your customers.
1. Offer the Right Tip Amounts
Choosing the right tip amounts is key to creating a comfortable tipping experience. Many tip screens include three preset options, often in percentages like:
10%, 15%, and 20%
15%, 18%, and 20%
Or small fixed amounts like $1, $3, and $5
These amounts can impact how customers feel about tipping. If the options are too high, customers might feel uncomfortable or pressured. On the other hand, too-low amounts may result in fewer tips than expected. A good approach is to keep your options balanced, such as 10%, 15%, and 20%, or a few modest dollar amounts, so customers feel encouraged but not pushed.
2. Display the Tip Screen at the Right Time
Timing is everything when it comes to tipping. Ideally, your tip screen should appear after the service is complete, allowing customers to decide based on their experience. Showing the tip screen too early, like before service or payment is finished, can feel awkward for customers and may even deter them from tipping.
Placing the tip screen at the end of the transaction—after the customer has had time to appreciate the service—feels more natural and respectful, often leading to a higher chance of tipping.
3. Use Friendly, Positive Language
The wording on your tip screen plays a significant role in how customers perceive the tipping process. Using friendly, positive language can make tipping feel like a natural gesture rather than an obligation. For example:
“Thank you! Would you like to leave a tip?”
“Thanks for your support! Tips are appreciated.”
“Your tip supports our team—thank you!”
Friendly phrases like these encourage tipping without creating pressure. Avoid language that sounds demanding or obligatory, such as “Add Tip” or “Service Fee.” A warm, appreciative tone goes a long way in building a positive experience.
4. Make Tipping Private and Comfortable
Nobody likes feeling pressured into tipping. Tip screens that face both the customer and the employee can make customers feel uncomfortable or even embarrassed. To make tipping feel like a personal choice, set up the tip screen to face only the customer. This way, they don’t feel watched and can decide without feeling like they’re being judged.
Another helpful approach is to include a “No Tip” option. This small but important feature gives customers the freedom to skip tipping if they choose, which can make them more comfortable and potentially more likely to tip on future visits.
5. Show How Tips Support the Team
People are often more inclined to tip when they know it directly benefits the team. A simple note like “Your tips support our hardworking team” or “Tips go directly to staff” adds a personal touch. By highlighting the positive impact of tipping, you make customers feel good about their choice.
Showing appreciation for their support and clarifying where tips go can encourage customers to add a little extra, knowing it helps the team behind the service.
6. Design a Clean, User-Friendly Screen
The design of your tip screen matters. A clean, easy-to-read interface makes the tipping process straightforward and stress-free. Here are a few design tips:
Clear Fonts: Avoid decorative fonts; choose simple, readable ones.
High Contrast Colors: Use colors that make the options stand out clearly.
Large Buttons: Make buttons big enough to tap easily, even for customers in a hurry.
A well-designed screen doesn’t just look professional; it also ensures customers have a smooth, comfortable experience when choosing a tip.
7. Thank Customers After They Tip
Showing appreciation makes a difference. After a customer chooses to tip, a quick “Thank you!” message can make them feel valued. Whether it’s a simple “Thanks for your support!” or “We appreciate your generosity!” these messages build goodwill and leave customers with a positive impression.
When customers feel recognized and appreciated, they’re more likely to return and tip again, making this small gesture an easy way to build customer loyalty.
8. Test and Tweak Your Setup
Finding the best setup might take some trial and error, and that’s perfectly normal. Testing different tip amounts, display timing, and language can help you find the setup that works best for your business. Pay attention to feedback from both customers and employees to identify any areas for improvement.
Testing different options—whether it’s changing the tip percentages or adjusting the language on the screen—will help you fine-tune your tip screen for the best results. Keep track of any changes in tipping behavior to see what resonates most with your customers.
Final Thoughts
Tip screens are an effective way to increase gratuities, but their success largely depends on how they’re set up. By offering the right tip options, using friendly language, respecting customer comfort, and creating a user-friendly design, you can encourage more customers to tip while making the experience enjoyable.
The key is to make tipping feel like a natural, positive choice rather than an obligation. With these best practices, you’ll be able to increase tips, show appreciation to customers, and build stronger relationships—all while supporting your team.
By taking the time to thoughtfully set up your tip screen, you’re not only helping your team but also creating a welcoming environment where customers feel valued and respected. Happy tipping!
