Servers have to make a living, too

From Free Speech this week, we have this quote:
when you fail to tip or leave 10 percent, you are costing the person money to wait on you. Twenty percent should be the appropriate amount to leave. Too bad everyone is not as thoughtful as you. Servers are here to make a living like everyone else.

To the writer, and all other food servers, let me say this:

When I sit down at your table, I expect to leave a 20% tip, usually rounded up. I agree with you that it is an appropriate amount, IF YOU DO YOUR JOB. If you do not, you're tipped accordingly. If you are truly trying to make a living, then I'd expect that the service you provide would be "appropriate."

Is my drink glass continually filled? Is my appetizer brought out well before my salad and my salad well before my meal, not right on top of each other? Is my order right? Is my food the appropriate temperature? Are you pleasant and amicable? How do you respond if I have a problem? Are you snapping gum in your mouth, or can you be seen doing unsanitary things (no joke, I've watched servers, away from the tables, with their hands in their mouths or hair or fingers in their noses... ewwww)?

If you are meeting those minimum expectations, then great! Expect a good tip, and shame on those who don't leave an appropriate amount.

If you aren't, then shame on you, and how dare you expect a full tip for a half-a** effort? I understand all the issues may not be your fault. If you are doing your best otherwise, then you won't be held responsible for things out of your control (not by me, anyways.)

Have I ever left no tip? Nope. I'll at least leave you the change in my pocket. And I'll be sure to let the manager know why, too.