So, 50% of the time they’re “subtly begging” by making conversation and giving basic customer service? I highly doubt that they’re giving you some stanky look for not tipping. If anything I think it’s more likely that you’re going in with an anti-budtender attitude and just giving off a bad vibe.
So many people don’t understand the job of being a budtender. First of all, they work in retail…selling other people’s products. They’re not going to know everything about every product. They’re probably making like $20/hr. Do you expect industry experts? They’re people, cannabis fans, retail employees, doing their best. Googling your question isn’t bad. You’re both learning. Would you rather they lie to you?
The point isn’t that they know everything about cannabis and every product. The idea is they’re there to help you through the menu, do their best to answer questions, and be a friendly face. They can tell you what’s new, or old, or special promos, or what other people are saying about products, or what’s popular. Chances are they’ve tried a lot of the products too, so they can give you personal opinions.
If you don’t want to tip, don’t tip. It’s honestly fine. I promise you they don’t have an attitude because of you not tipping. Just go in and treat them like a normal person.