Is Casino Hosting a “Tip” Profession?

The question of whether casino host can accept tips often arises in my texts, emails, and DMs. This frequently asked and debated topic deserves thorough exploration and discussion on why tipping your casino host is generally discouraged and the implications it carries. Of course, this question is two-fold: Should They and Do They?

First, the nature or culture of tipping (in the United States) is encouraged and insisted upon in many service-oriented professions such as waiters, bartenders, transportation, barbers, most hospitality workers, etc etc as tipping is an essential part of their income. These professionals typically earn minimum wage and rely heavily on tips to cover their living expenses. The tip is determined from a percentage of the total service. However, this is not or should not be the case for casino hosts. Of course casino hosts do not come with a service fee so how would a percentage be determined? If a casino host team is dependent on tips to make ends meet, it indicates, to me, inadequate compensation by their employer. Ideally, casino hosts should be salaried employees, a point I've emphasized repeatedly.

Casino host individuals should possess the utmost integrity and moral standing. We trust our casino hosts to make the right decisions for both the company and the guests. Problem-solving and crucial on-the-spot decision-making are essential in this role. Walking a line of fairness and balance on a day-to-day basis is a confidence most leaders rely on. However, once this integrity is damaged, it’s hard to regain and reestablish that trust.

Casino Hosts are responsible for managing the clients' accounts and are privy to sensitive financial and personal information. They play a crucial role in ensuring that comps and free play are distributed fairly, according to the property's established guidelines. Tipping a casino host can be misconstrued as a bribe, potentially leading them to bend or break rules for the benefit of a tipping guest.

It is crucial to discern whether a tip or gift is intended as an incentive for the casino host to deviate from established guidelines or as a gesture of gratitude for providing an exceptional VIP experience. In truth, the latter accounts for the vast majority of cases. And truly what motivates the host to accept the gracious offer

Okay, let's talk about the elephant in the room. The question I so often get is: Do casino hosts in Las Vegas accept tips? First and foremost, DON’T mirror or compare yourself with Las Vegas. That being said, officially, they are not allowed to do so. However, some hosts, of course, do accept tips discreetly, often in the form of cash delivered 'off camera,' and it is often difficult to reject a sleight of hand or undisclosed offer from the client. They also receive gifts, ranging from liquor, jewelry, and electronics to extravagant items like cars and condos. It’s been known that some have received real estate investments, stocks, or percentages on brokered connections. This practice raises ethical concerns, as it blurs the line between ethics and integrity. In Las Vegas, many executive hosts negotiate the cash percentage they want to receive from their guests when they approve cash transactions for the player, such as reimbursing airfare.

Leadership in casinos are faced with the challenge of setting clear, accountable policies regarding tipping and gifts. It's crucial to have a straightforward policy that leaves no room for confusion or loopholes. A no-tip or gift policy is generally advisable to prevent misunderstandings and ensure fairness

While most casinos have a no-tip policy, they often allow hosts to receive gifts. Typically, gifts valued under $25 may be accepted, logged, and reported to leadership and security, while those exceeding this amount should be returned or rejected. Rejecting a gift can of course lead to awkwardness and embarrassment with the guests

The above policy reminds me of the inconsistency or contradiction in the rules as allowing an employee to have a drink at their workstation but not food. This can create confusion for the staff, allowing gifts while prohibiting tips can blur the understanding of what is acceptable. This scenario can lead employees to overthink or misinterpret the rules, resulting in uncertainty about their actions

So, define the terms! The process of determining a gift's value can be complicated and, at times, irrelevant or without practical effect. It does emphasize the need for clarity in defining terms to navigate the complexities and potential irrelevance in assessing the value and suitability of gifts. Factors like whether the gift is handmade, its market value, and its appropriateness need to be considered. Leadership must anticipate potential pitfalls and define the policy parameters clearly

In conclusion, just as roles like concierge, front desk, housekeeping, and butlers can accept tips for their exemplary service, the same may apply to casino hosts. Most hosts will except an offer based on its intention being that it is appreciation for providing an exceptional VIP experience. Clear, consistent policies ensure fairness and maintain the integrity of the casino’s operations. Casino leadership should be aware of any tips or gifts given to casino hosts and understand the intentions behind them. KNOW THE PLAYER AND TRUST YOUR HOST. This is the true way leadership will be able to assess the true motives for the gift.

Please feel free to post your comments, concerns and questions.