*This is a summary from Episode 4 on The VegasStrong Revival Podcast. If you're intrigued and want the full VegasStrong Revival experience, tune in on whichever platform you listen. And don't forget to subscribe for more insights and discussions on how we can all contribute to a VegasStrong community.
Introduction: Unveiling the Heart of Vegas Hospitality
Welcome back, VegasStrong peeps! This episode is a special one, where we peel back the curtain on the concept of hospitality, deconstruct the dynamics of tipping etiquette, and share secrets to thriving during the holiday shopping rush in our glimmering city.
Hospitality: The VegasStrong Spirit
What does hospitality really mean in a city famed for its service?
Britt & Warren review several literal definitions and conclude that Hospitality is not a noun, but rather a verb.
It's the lifeblood of Las Vegas, a gesture that goes far beyond a smile or a welcome mat. It's creating an experience that resonates long after the glitter fades. Whether it's a grand gesture or a simple acknowledgment, hospitality in Vegas is about making everyone feel like the VIP of their own story.
Britt voices, “My personal (and often private) thoughts on Hospitality are actually biblical. Hospitality is mentioned several times in the Bible. True Hospitality is really a form or demonstration of love to others. It's not about looks or the product or even the process of the business, but rather about how you made someone FEEL. It is a genuine, honest and sincere action, and is always accompanied by emotion. 1 Peter 4:9 says "Be hospitable to one another without complaint". Which is really key... because if you do something for someone, help them FEEL valued, important or whatever, you should really mean it and therefore you'd never have a reason to complain about doing it.”
Why has Hospitality Changed in Vegas for Locals?
Warren’s answer: “The pandemic suggested to so many of us how we can maximize our comfort by limiting our hospitality, right? We talk to fewer people, we see fewer people, therefore we have fewer chances to truly PRACTICE hospitality... but I blame social media just a tad bit more, honestly. On one hand, social media has trained us to uplift every little thing we see our friends slide across our feed, but on the other hand, it LITERALLY removes certain types of people from the real world... in so many ways... I almost fear really diving into this, but I do personally think our obsession with indirect communication through texting, social media, and other digital communication formats has stunted any instincts many people may have previously had to BE HOSPITABLE to those around them. That's why the art of hospitality is gradually getting lost, in my mind. Put down the phone... say something to a stranger. Just try it. Tell them they genuinely look nice that day... don't save that feedback for their filtered social media stories or ai-enhanced profile pics. Give it to the person. It's so much more REAL. Let's get REAL.”
Decoding Tipping Etiquette: A VegasStrong Tradition
Tipping in Vegas isn't just about leaving a few extra dollars on the table; it's about recognizing the person behind the service. It's a testament to the hard work that goes into making each experience memorable. But as technology nudges us towards a new era of 'Tip-Flation,' how do we maintain the tradition of gratitude?
Here’s some “tips” (pun intended) on the etiquette behind gratuity and ensure that we're tipping with intention and respect.
1. “Guilt-Tipping” doesn’t actually improve customer experiences
2. Give a Gratuity when it’s deserving
3. Gratuities are Voluntary GIFTS
4. Show genuine gratitude if you receive a Gratuity
5. In Vegas, 20% (or more) gratuity means you received Excellent Service
6. It’s okay to leave $1-$2 for beverages, rather than a percentage.
7. If you didn’t receive excellent service, feel free to leave feedback and explain why you’re not giving 20%
8. The more skills or experience that goes into a service, the more we should consider tipping.
9. Someone who you have a personalized relationship with that knows your preferences, also might earn a bigger tip, since they can offer knowledgeable advice and more personalized service.
10. Gratuity doesn’t have to be Monetary! Gifts come in many forms!
Holiday Shopping: A Strategic VegasStrong Approach
The holiday season in Vegas is as dazzling as the city itself, but shopping can be a high-stakes game. How do we navigate this bustling time with poise and a VegasStrong mindset? From avoiding shopping sharks to practicing patience in long lines, we explore strategies for keeping your cool and finding joy in the holiday hustle.
Our recommendations:
1. Don’t be a “Shopping Shark”, use your vehicle signals when parking, for example
2. Don’t be that person who holds up the entire line, unnecessarily
3. Do NOT cut the line
4. Never get physical with another person over shopping items
5. If your shift is over and another person is replacing you, simply wait until that person comes to take over before you leave guests completely feeling unimportant
6. Clean up after yourself when you’re out shopping or in public places, especially during the busy holiday season
7. Remember that your priorities are not more important than other humans
8. Practice empathy, awareness, respect, and HOSPITALITY. We all deserve a happy holiday, so let’s be sure to remain helpful to that philosophy.
Wrap-Up: Embracing Hospitality Beyond the Holidays
As the show draws to a close, let's circle back to our roots. Hospitality isn't seasonal; it's the perennial philosophy that underpins our community. It's in the way we tip, the way we shop, and how we interact with each other. This holiday season, let's gift not just material items but also moments of genuine connection and care. After all, that's the VegasStrong way.
Britt & Warren Side Note: Being a Concierge Subscriber with La Critique means you can give the gift of Experiences rather than “stuff” and you won’t have to lift a finger to do it!
Have questions, thoughts, or concerns?
Email us at info@lacritiquelv.com
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Call us on our “SUPER COOL” Podcast Hotline @ 702-723-2343
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