I recently moved into a building that employs a concierge. What is an
appropriate end-of-year tip for services such as package delivery,
handling dry cleaning, and allowing contractors entry to my unit while
I am at work?

Hi Dansays ~

Tipping at this time of year can be stressful. How much is 'enough',
or how much is 'too much', either of which can put you in a difficult
light.

You mentioned that you recently moved into the building, which can
make it even harder.

There is some information online which I think can help.

1. Findalink.Net's "Tipping Etiquette"
   - http://www.findalink.net/tippingetiquette.php


Scroll down to Christmas Tipping Etiquette:

     "Christmas is a great time of year to remember those people
      who serve you regularly. Since it only occurs once a year,
      Christmas tipping can be a source of holiday stress, but
      it need not be so. I recommend a gift or a tasteful
      Christmas card with a tip inside. Delivery should occur in
      the month of December prior to Christmas day...

      *Doorman/concierge - $50-100 or more, depending upon
      building"
   - http://www.findalink.net/tippingetiquette.php



2. From the mouth of Bob Hale, security/concierge of condominiums in
Coral Gables, Florida:

     "people usually slip him anywhere from $25 to $40 as a
      holiday bonus -- in excess of the money the building
      collects for a holiday fund that's divided among building
      personnel. [from an article by Cindy Krischer Goodman
      dated December 1, 2002, FortWayne.com, "Tips on tipping:
      A guide to holiday gratuities"]
   - http://www.fortwayne.com/mld/fortwayne/entertainment/special_packages/holiday_guide/4618299.htm



3. Emily Post's "Tips on Tipping, 2003"
   - http://www.emilypost.com/etiquette/holiday/holiday_tipping.htm

The recommendation is $20-$80.


=============================
So How Much Should You Tip?
=============================

You have a fair idea of an amount range from the above, and you should
take Ms. Post's advice to heart:

     "Tip amounts and/or gifts vary widely. Make your own
      modifications based on:

      * how pleased you are with the service
      * your relationship with the service provider
      * the frequency of the service or how long you have
        worked together
      * your budget
      * your regional customs
      * the type of establishment: a deluxe or moderate beauty
        salon/apartment/fitness center"
   - http://www.emilypost.com/etiquette/holiday/holiday_tipping.htm


If the building is taking up a collection, $40 would be a fair amount.
If you are unaware of any such collection, $50 would be fair and would
insure a good relationship for next year.

But that's just *my* opinion, and your mileage may vary.


Google Search Strategies
=========================

   - Appropriate holiday tipping
   - holiday tipping etiquette


Best wishes for a happy holiday season to you,

Serenata
Google Answers Researcher

Very helpful. Thank you!

If it's any help, Dansays ...

I can never figure out the 'correct' tip, either. I even have a cheat
sheet with the amounts figured so I don't have to do the math, and I
still worry about it.

In any case, good luck, and thank you for the rating and your own
generous tip. That was a very nice thing to do!

Happy holidays,
Serenata