The Effect of Physical Distance Between Patrons and Servers on Tipping

Experimental studies showing that servers’ nonverbal behaviors are associated with variation in customers’ tipping have not tested the effect of interpersonal distance between the server and the customer. Five waitresses in three restaurants were asked to stand erect at varying distances from patrons, who were alone at their table, when taking orders. Short interpersonal distance was associated with both a greater frequency in tipping and an increased amount of money given. The results highlight the importance of proxemic behavior and the role of social interaction between customers and restaurant employees.