I've waited tables and tended bar before, so I know what a crap job it can be some nights. I'm also keenly aware of whether or not my waiter/bartender is doing an excellent job, is really busy,or is giving sub-par service.
Most folks don't haven't had such experience, so it can be a bit confusing for them when they try to determine how much they should tip. A few suggestions:
1.ALWAYS figure in at least a 15% tip on top of your drink/food bill and go from there. I usually start at twenty percent, but, trust me, your server usually knows whether or not you hit that 15% mark. Anything less is a slap in the face to them, so unless they're exceptionally rude or incompetant, at least fifteen cents on the dollar goes to them. If they are friendly, quick, give a good recommendation or if you make a special order, 20%(I'd suggest 25%) is an adequate tip. If you have them running there ass off for the whole night, please be sure to thank them and leave at least 25%.
2.Try tipping big on your first drink. I usually do this for several reasons. First, I don't usually have the variety of currency neccessary to leave a reasonable tip on every drink if I'm having more than a couple beers, so I just put a big tip up front put it rest for a while. Second, it lets the bartender know off the bat that your not going to screw him on his tips, as he might assume if you try waiting toward the end of the night to tip him out.For instance, If I'm buying a $4 drink to start myself off, I'll just give him or her a ten and not worry about it again for my next couple ****tails. Even if I buy three more, I'll still have a $6 tip on an $16 bill, hardly a stingy amount. Just don't try to drink all night on your initial tip. Be sure to tip him/her again.
3. If the bartender does something extra-ordinary for you, like making a killer drink, giving you a freebie, letting you order after last call, giving up the heads-up on a lady, or sticking up for you (Bartenders carry a alot of weight at their establishment) be sure to leave them a BIG tip. This means that they're either very good at what they do or they've done you a favor outside of what their job requires. Show that you appreciate it.
4. If you wan't better service, tip bigger, that's the name of the game. But even if you leave a big tip that person still has other people to serve, so don't go getting flustered if you have to wait a little while, especially if it's obvious they are very busy. However, if your leaving very good or great tips, and the your getting really subpar service, you have a right to be ticked and you should refrain from tipping that person. Sure, they may start short-changing you even more, but your a paying customer, and there are plenty of other places to go where a good customer is appreciated. Your will run into bartenders or waitresses who aren't happy unless they get a ten spot on a twenty dollar bill, but most will be cool will an adequate tip.
