Dealing with grumpy servers.

• Author: Galanes, Philip
• Position: What Would You Do? - Brief article

My favorite cafe has excellent food and a friendly staff. But a new person recently appeared behind the counter. He's grim, never smiles, and is totally deadpan, as if he hates his job. It irks me. I could stop tipping, but that's unfair to the others on staff, who share tips. May I take him aside and comment On his demeanor?--Greg, Seattle

SORRY, YOU MAY NOT. Some people's natural expression is dour. Or he may be shy. But the one thing I'm certain of is that...