Image Credits: pixabay.com
It is no secret that splitting the bill is a source of conflict among friends, especially if one person is trying to ditch the contribution at all costs. Most Singaporeans do not want to be perceived as cheap, nor do they want to embarrass themselves.
Run through these methods when caught up in this seemingly awkward situation:
#1: BE ASSERTIVE
The person who speaks first is usually on top of the social situation. With an independent persona, I am one of those people who are not afraid to decide in behalf of a group. I initially blurt out my suggestions concerning our dining experiences (e.g., eating at a restaurant versus eating at my flat). Agreeing upon a specific strategy beforehand avoids the potential conflicts.
Take matters to your own hands by brainstorming about the payment strategy prior to booking a table or ordering food online. You do not want to awkwardly stare at each other when the bill arrives!
#2: SHARE EVERYTHING EVENLY
If you have no qualms with maximizing your budget and sharing your food (unlike “Joey” from F•R•I•E•N•D•S) then, by all means, split the bill evenly. This communal approach welcomes the relatively equal consumption of appetizers, mains, desserts, drinks, and so on. You all pay for the service charge too.
Having a great time while sharing delectable experiences – isn’t that what friendship is for?
#3: REQUEST FOR SEPARATE BILLS
Looking for the most logical method to split the restaurant costs? Well, you can politely ask for separate bills or checks! Having separate bills makes it clear that you will only pay for the meals and drinks that you have consumed. The only downside is the added load you posed on the server, but you can always compensate by giving a generous tip.
This method comes in handy when you are leaving earlier than the rest of your friends.
#4: DOWNLOAD AN SMART APP
In these days, there is almost always an app for everything and anything. Consider leaning on technology for a helping hand. You read that right! There are several apps on the market that allows to ease this social situation. For instance, you may download the Splitwise app for free. Splitwise allows you to keep track of the total amount that your friends owe you. When they are ready to pay their debts, they just have to complete the transaction through PayPal.
Another no-cost app that has a similar function is the Venmo (for Android and iOS). Venmo allows you send payment requests to your friends without the awkward money conversations. You can also pay your friends back if they sent a request to you.
Image Credits: pixabay.com
No matter what method you end up employing, sensitivity is bound to be an element in this situation. Overcome the bill splitting by clearly communicating your expectations and opinions.
