I worked at the shithole of a restaurant for three years. I made my way up the ladder, from server to manager by the time I finished college. While I made a ridiculous amount of money, I dealt with a lot of harassment and humiliation from drunk college boys and self-entitled Berkeley students. But I kept my mouth shut (most of the time), served those hamburgers and milkshakes, and worked 8+ hour shifts with no breaks. Welcome to the service industry.

I quickly learned that the way I dressed influenced the amount of money that I received in tips. Although we were required to wear a black shirt and jeans, I worked this to my advantage. A V-neck shirt was much better for my pocket books than a crew cut shirt. Tight pants were a must. And on the busiest days, I would wear some leggings with a short skirt. I also tailored my apron so it was short and “more feminine.” A long apron was unflattering and would surely decrease my tips for the night.

I would make friendly banter with people that I had no interest in actually being friends with. And this chat would change with my target audience. Kids? Great. I love kids. Even though your child is completely obnoxious and screaming, he or she is my new favorite. Drunk college boys? Also great. I love your stupid jokes and demeaning looks. I hope you will...