"Are you on the dessert menu? Because you look yummy." First, ick!
Secondly, these are the types of comments to which customers expose servers in the hospitality industry on the regular. In fact, the restaurant industry has more sexual harassment claims than any other industry, with as many as 90% of women report experiencing some form of sexual harassment. In large part, I blame tipped wages.
Tipped wages create a unique challenge in the hospitality industry, including the craft breweries—one that contributes to a culture of vulnerability for those who work in tasting rooms and taprooms. The reliance on customer tips for a living wage can lead to an unfortunate power imbalance, one that encourages some patrons to cross lines and engage in sexual harassment. The idea that tolerating bad behavior is necessary to earn tips isn't just unfair—it's unsafe and unwell.
No one should have to choose between their dignity, safety, or mental health and their paycheck.
So how to do we solve this problem? Let me offer four solutions.
We have an opportunity to make the craft beer world truly welcoming for everyone. Brewery owners, consider adopting these changes today to make your space safer and more inclusive for everyone. Together, we can build a community that values safety, respect, and genuine hospitality over outdated and harmful tipping norms. And if you need a beer lawyer to help you navigate these changes, you know where to find me. 🍻
Secondly, these are the types of comments to which customers expose servers in the hospitality industry on the regular. In fact, the restaurant industry has more sexual harassment claims than any other industry, with as many as 90% of women report experiencing some form of sexual harassment. In large part, I blame tipped wages.
Tipped wages create a unique challenge in the hospitality industry, including the craft breweries—one that contributes to a culture of vulnerability for those who work in tasting rooms and taprooms. The reliance on customer tips for a living wage can lead to an unfortunate power imbalance, one that encourages some patrons to cross lines and engage in sexual harassment. The idea that tolerating bad behavior is necessary to earn tips isn't just unfair—it's unsafe and unwell.
No one should have to choose between their dignity, safety, or mental health and their paycheck.
So how to do we solve this problem? Let me offer four solutions.
1. Eliminate tipped wages. When tips become a bonus and not a necessity, employees can focus on providing great service without the added stress of relying on tips for basic living expenses. It will disincentivize any tolerating harassment or other bad behavior.
2. Create clear anti-harassment policies. Clear anti-harassment policies empower staff to take action without fear of losing income. Employees should feel confident that management will support them if they need to report inappropriate behavior, whether it comes from a customer or a coworker.
3. Train staff and customers. Training staff and customers on expected behavior in your space helps set clear boundaries, including implementing a code of conduct. Regular training sessions for employees, along with visible signage for customers, can create a culture of respect and make it clear that harassment won't be tolerated.
4. Encourage a supportive workplace culture. A supportive workplace culture is vital. Colleagues and management should actively look out for one another, stepping in when they see problematic behavior and providing a network of support for those affected.
We have an opportunity to make the craft beer world truly welcoming for everyone. Brewery owners, consider adopting these changes today to make your space safer and more inclusive for everyone. Together, we can build a community that values safety, respect, and genuine hospitality over outdated and harmful tipping norms. And if you need a beer lawyer to help you navigate these changes, you know where to find me. 🍻