I wouldn't trust anyone on the street with a card, but to be fair, I don't trust half the places I go with card, which is why I carry cash everywhere. I'd like to imagine that people who aren't comfortable using a card in these sorts of situations would be carrying cash already
First of all, loved the video! Really great stuff, man. I bet some people immediately think it’s a scam when you bring out the card reader. Part of that is probably because it’s a new thing to do as a street performer, like maybe a bit unexpected. But ultimately, since they’ll see your performance and everything is very genuine, I’d say people would be fine with it. It’s definitely a great idea!
6 years ago your comment and I've never heard of these things till right now. It would take time for people to trust this just like it did to use credit cards on the internet. At first no one trusted that either. I wonder how things have changed in 6 years.
3:39 I recall one time my dad bought us some treats in a bakery and the lady cashier maybe was in training and give back more change that it's supposed to, my dad realized that but didn't notify or give back the surplus change. The moral of the story is that if the person was in a probation period at charge of the cash register and get any complaint from a customer while being monitored, she is going to be fired for sure due to her human error, at end of the day while closing the sales any discrepancies in the padded amount and the cash counted must be amortized by the operator of the cash register. The amount given as surplus is chump changes compared to the prospect of losing the job.
Your thoughts are really interesting, I don‘t think of a lot of em but for you you just slide them in there in your sentences, makes it a whole lot more interesting to watch u. Sooo I guess I‘ll just say THANK YOUUUUUU!
Have been in retail for around 10 years. Just recently got out. Obviously would have always appreciated someone telling me that I messed up. However, a lot of people would not do that. People take whatever is free. I would let the teller know as I have a guilty conscience.
Katie Ashplant Totally agree, I used to have to deal with theft and credit card fraud on the daily. Many people including myself work hard for their money. It’s not fair that some people think it’s okay to steal and skirt the system.
Brian Blackmore Exactly. We work hard for our money and then some punk comes in and thinks it's OK to take something without paying for it. I worked in the charity sector for a couple of years and people would come in all the time and nick things. And bearing in mind it's a charity. Disgraceful.
I'd tell them about the shirt, without a doubt. A month or so ago a magic dealer accidently sent me 2 TKO 2.0's (worth 80 euros ea), and I even spent 13 euros of my own to send it back! Come to think of it, maybe I should ask for a discount next time
While you were giving your pitch to the audience for the credit card tipping option I intuitively felt that the simple act of doing so would be an inducement for people to tip. Saying that it was a new, first time option subtly implied that you are actively trying to find non-aggressive ways to encourage folks to tip. The card option gives your show greater economic legitimacy in that it says, ‘this is a real business’. It separates you more from panhandlers and sellers of trinkets, etc.. It denotes that not only is the performance worth paying for but now that one has enjoyed themselves it’s time to pay for the experience. You can try different pitches for the card option but I actually think that being slightly awkward, “here’s a new thing I’m offering to you”, might prove effective, as not only is it new to you but it’s a new and unusual card experience for the audience. For now you may not get a lot of tips on the cards but presenting the option may have the effect of increasing cash tips. P.S. - I changed my channel name. - John Obrien, gardener
I've definitely been in the shirt situation and kept it in my past, but I'd like to think now I'd make the right choice. I think tipping via cc is fine. Less fun, but fine. I like the pre-set amount idea too - simple is key. One other thing you could do to increase tips could be giving out a dirt cheap souvenir (a sticker, candy, etc...) from your show to anyone who wants to take one. Place them right next to your money hat or something.
This is just another one of those reasons I love this guy! He's willing to take that risk and try something no one else or very few others are doing to see if it works! Whether or not this works out, people will look back on this as something to point to and say, "Hey, this guy showed that card readers (do/don't) work for busking." I just think that's gotta be cool, to know that you're one doing a test-run of something that has the potential to change a core aspect (money collection) of an entire industry!
Great video! Very interesting to see the results as I have thought about busking myself in the future! Keep up the hard work it’s great to see you back!!!
If the cashier just failed to ring up an item, I'd probably say something, but recently I bought some bolts from the hardware store, and the way it works there is basically I just bring them up to the till and tell her what the price is, and she misheard me and rang them up at a considerable discount. I don't reckon she can get in much trouble for that, because it's gonna be hard to tell how that happened or who was at fault, so I don't feel bad about that one. But also I didn't spot the mistake until I got home, and it definitely wasn't worth going back.
I think it’s a great idea, would definitely do it- the set amount would make it a lot easier as well so you could just walk up and tap, as opposed to being afraid of being judged for inputting a smaller amount
Wow, that’s an insane coincidence!! I only know Michael Vincent from his “Fool Us” appearances, but I instantly remembered him. He seemed like a genuinely top guy, and his sleight of hand-based routines were just insanely good! How cool was that!.........
I’ve had that happen at a register before. I tend to not say anything but I have before. The reason why I don’t; I don’t have a lot of money. If I can save a few dollars, I will, but only if it’s a big company as they have insurance for items. It doesn’t really hurt them to lose a soda or candy bar. I would never do that to a small store though, especially not my local magic shop. They forgot to ring something up once and I immediately mentioned it. They’re the reason I got into magic in the first place so I could never let myself be the reason they lost any money whatsoever.
Hey, that's actually not a bad idea! They could set up token machines in busker-friendly areas. That could help with the credit card trust issue. It would be like arcade tokens or, uh, feeding the pigeons 😋
Michal Vincent has probably been doing magic since before your parents were dating! That guy is a giant, and a true gentlemen. :-) Cheers to you, sir! :-)
I’m so glad you made a video on this! I’ve been thinking recently that people carrying less cash must be affecting the earnings of street performers, so I’m really glad to hear you’re finding a way round it! I frequently can’t give any money to buskers because I don’t have any on me, so I’d be up for tipping them via card reader 🙌🏻 Also I would take the shirt because it’s coming from a big company who won’t really feel the impact of losing that money, but if it were a small, independent place then I’d definitely tell them they’re put it through wrong :)
In norway we have a smartphone application named "vipps" where you can easily give a small amount of somebody else with an account. I don't use it myself, but I think most norwegian city-goers use it. Something like that might be a better solution since it inherently is easier to trust due to not being skimmable, but it may be harder to get tourists to use it
I JUST am getting ready to order a card reader that allows taps, swipes and chip enabled cards. Timing is everything! Also, I would (and have) correct(ed) mistakes a cashier makes. Imagine someone sees your show and since you don't charge, their attitude is, "Great - free show! They didn't charge me, so it's free - no need to leave a tip!"
Re shirt: if I’d noticed it before leaving or near to the shop, I would have said something. I have had one or two instances where I was really tired and just didn’t pay attention to the total, then got on a tram and went home and only noticed something was amiss when I looked at the receipt. I kept the thing those times because of the complication and time. I did once accidentally steal a soap off the counter in Lush when I picked up my other things. I got back to work, was mortified, took it back and the staff there were stunned. All of them said they would have kept it and I lost a little faith in humanity at that moment.
I think getting a card reader is so clever! If I'm in a hurry and pass a busker I like and I cant give them money it saddens me, but I have gone to atm's specifically to get money out for a busker (though in those cases you have to be sure to let them know that so by the time you come back they haven't left!). Having card payment available may add some time to the tipping process at the end of a show depending on your audience size, but I think the convenience will get you the tips you've been missing from cashless audience members. I think establishing from the get go that card payment is available could be good too? Everyone knows that buskers take cash, buskers have hats or instrument cases for payment, they now where to put their money. So maybe making it clear early on either visually (with a sign?) or verbally will give the audience that comfort or set the idea that this is a new option growing in the busking community. I can understand though that may be difficult or could come across as you asking for tips before doing the show they would be paying for. In terms of safety concerns, I guess the only way out it through? By introducing this new idea and as it grows people will learn and adapt, just like they have when cards were first introduced and how the technology has changed over time.
I would find a way to mount the card reader to the brim of the hat, like a strap that goes around it. The. While "holding" the reader you are also holding the hat and serves dual purpose
i work in the retail sector and if i fuck up with a customer the money comes out of my wage at the end of the day which is already minimum wage. steven you're a legend if you tell the cashier that they messed up
Having worked for a US bank, I'm comfortable enough with how to navigate the financial institution to tip a busker with my card. That said, there's definitely better methods that what you've currently got. DipJar comes to mind, but is expensive to start. An ideal solution to still capture that moment that is lost would be several dipjars (or DipJar alternatives) with different amounts so people can dip their card without having to wait for the phone or interact with the busker (for us socially anxious people).
What about putting the card reader or with a sign in it saying it's $X. If they really aren't expensive you could even have a second one with a lesser amount. Like a $1 and $5 option. Or a $5 and $20 option.
Steven, if she didn't scan the shirt, then the till still balances. It'll only come up as an issue during stocktake, at which point it'll just be written off as stolen or a system error. Edit: Also, could you potentially speed up the card payments by having it preset to something like £3? Small enough amount to get lots of people tapping maybe.
Some kind of quick belt clip for hat? So you could quickly hold out the hat in between of accepting card payments? And yeah i never buy stuff i can't afford (except sometimes... online... and deal with repercussions myself) and if something got missed at the cash register, i'll point it out, i've done it on every occasion before when i notice... even walked back to the store once... though half the time i'm so distracted, i'll probably never even notice that. I guess things being scanned in twice by accident happens too.
I think it works more in London then it might do elsewhere. I busking in a small northern town with an older population, and I highly suspect the card machine wouldn't work in that setting and that scale.
Don't judge me for this but... I wouldn't have said anything and would've just taken the shirt for free. I never really understand when people say they're worried the staff member will get reprimanded cause how would they know it was that one person's mistake?
You should definitely have a set amount on the card reader. I'd be most likely to tip that way - not having to agonise over what the amount should be but just going with the recommended amount. Easy
Liked the video. Put off watching it for a couple days because I thought it was one of your rant videos and I wanted to be in the mood for it :-D (I don't dislike your rant videos, just so you know)
If the shirt didn't get scanned, then the till should still balance because there's nothing recorded that says the shirt went out. However, once the year-end inventory is taken, they'll be short one shirt, but that's not terribly unusual. That being said, I would have said something.
I think the card is a second-level option. You should put up a venmo account and ask people to venmo you their donations, or whatever system they use there. Just have a sign. That's a much more trust-inspiring way to do it, or even a bank quickpay system, whatever they have there.
Great video - the main thing I don't like about the card reader is having to tell you how much I'd want to pay, I would just find that really awkward, so having it set to a predetermined amount would be better for me
how about a rig that holds the phone and card reader together, so you can hold them easily in one hand, the hat in the other? Or all three in one hand?
How do you deal with approach anxiety? I always feel like no matter how well I can do the trick, no matter how many times I’ve performed it successfully, I’ll mess it up and ruin magic for the person.
I'd definitely tip with a card, but only to people I know, or follow, like you Steven, but in general I wouldn't feel safe putting down my CC on the street. Pretty sure tipping like that will grow over time. Consider yourself a pioneer.
Just curious, have you continued forward with this or just gone over to Venmo, which is what I was automatically thinking of using as I get ready to head out and be a traveling vagabond along the West Coast of America.
Hi Steven, I wrote You from Argentina, My two mágicians Friends are actually working in the Fringe Festival, and have the same problem everyday, Lost money because the people wanna tips with electronic Style... How is the steps to get the posnet... You can help US? Thanks
Steven! Great video. I think that different things might work in different places. In America (not sure if you guys have it across the pond) we have a card reader you plug into your phone called Square. It’s small and efficient, and most small businesses use it so most people know it’s legit. Totally streamlines what you’re trying to do by using only a phone, so you’d have your other hand free. Maybe make an update video in a few months so we can see how things go? Would definitely help me as I would never think of using a card reader (great idea)!
I would have said something about the shirt. I've actually done stuff like that before. As for card/no card, I don't know if I would be trusting with using a credit card, but I'd definitely use Apple Pay to tip.
All opinions: I think one thing buskers get tipped more for is originality, and perhaps the very fact you have a card reader made people at the right moment go 'this guy is original for having a card reader, not seen that before and I liked his show' Also card inherently makes people more willing to spend more as it's less physical in the transaction, and in general, people who are more wealthy don't carry cash, so you may get bigger tips with the cards from people who previously couldn't?
An iZettle! That's awesome, I wonder what the data would look like if you set the amount of a contactless tap to £2, and then worked your way up £1 at a time every day. I'm thinking there must be some kind of sweet spot? Nice video!
I've been thinking about the impact of contactless payments on buskers a lot recently for some reason and this is such a cool way to evolve. although it does still keep me wondering about the impact of contactless on the homeless, and if they've been having the same drop as street performers because people just aren't carrying cash anymore.
since i never check the little papers i honestly don't think would even notice. Morally it would be better to go and pay the shirt but i might be on the side of "yeahy free shirt" partly because i would be too lazy to go through the huzzle to go back to the shop
I’d say put the card reader on a stand, like a camera tripod with a phone cradle that could hold the card reader. Then you can just point to it, like you point to the hat, and not have to juggle the reader in your hand.
If I knew the busker already, like I know you from watching you on UA-cam, I'd be comfortable tipping with a card. Otherwise, I might worry it's a scam ... though now that I've seen it's a real thing, I'd probably hesitate less tomorrow than I would've yesterday. Lol I almost always stop to count my change and I give back over-payments when it happens, which often surprises cashiers. Once I went to the grocery store and one of my items didn't get rung up, I think it was a pair of socks but not sure now because it was a year or so ago. I called the store after I got home and realized the error, and told them I was too tired to drive back but I'd be happy to give them my info over the phone, and they told me to just keep it. They were just happy to have an honest customer! I thought that was really sweet of them, too. :)
Does Inland Revenue (that's your version of our IRS, right?) watch your videos? Just asking. As to the shirt controversy, I've even gone back to stores when I discovered that I wasn't charged for things. I don't say that to pat myself on the back. It's just a matter of integrity to me. As to the card, you might want to consider bringing change for a 20=pound note (I don't have the symbol on my keyboard) with you, too. Contracts to sign over their first-born might be helpful as well.
Hi Steven, i'm a magician working with tips in restaurants and bars and i was thinking about having a system to take credit card and i see your video. Can you say me where to find it, do you need to pay avery month to have the right to use it or is there a charge in each payment? And did you use it in situation of tips in restaurants and if yes what where the reactions? Thank you.
I think it would be cool if there is a mini pop up shop where you would be able to buy something like casino chips with card. Then you could hand them to your kids and they could give them to buskers and still keep that feeling like cash. Buskers could go and cash theyr chips after work. I think this could be setted up with the City since buskers are part of the street performance culture. Either way, great video. Greetings from Finland.
Great videa and great topic. What are your thoughts on, rather than a card reader, giving your PayPal info so they can send money that way? That way they never have to worry about exposing CC info or getting scammed.
This is so interesting... I think i have mixed feelings about this but its the result of something that’ll impact a society in different realms both negatively and positively and its quite fascinating that we have reached this point in that specific field. Although i might not support this but I understand that it’ll be of great benefit to buskers in some sense...
StevenBridges StevenBridges I wont make this long so I’ll try to sum it up... I think the idea of paying by cards especially to art and busking takes away a sense of the value of what you’re giving. It becomes all virtual, all numbers nothing real but the info. The difference when the money is in ur hand and you see whats in your hand and feel the intrinsic value it makes you realize what you’re giving away and the receiver feels it to. For me it feels that money becomes almost abstracted when its payed by a card and especially since many of those who come foreword to tip the hat are kids and with that they themselves and the performer also will feel differently to them the feeling they get whether its joy or satisfaction or whatever u wanna call it it also becomes abstract in a sense and for me that’s troubling because of the consequences of it. But I can also see the inevitable positive impact and benefits it’ll have... but yeah thats all
I'd be a little cautious of using a card reader in the streets unless I knew the person. Unlike a shop you're not made of bricks so you could potentially way over-charge and then scamper off never to be seen again. BUT they don't have to pay by card unless they're comfortable with it and it's only going to be a more and more acceptable way to pay. Having that option available can only be a good thing! Also I'd totally go back and pay for the shirt.
In London they are trialling out those card readers for buskers. I found out through my friend Charlotte Campbell who was interviewed on Sky News and BBC News.
Oh my god i was screaming when i saw you replied thank you so much for what you do you got me into slight of hand magic when i was 12 i am 14 now and you are such a great person keep it up
SUPER interesting and thought-provoking video, Steven! I would definitely return the clothes, and on the whole card reader thing, I wonder if this will be the latest thing that kind of clings on despite technological advancements. I mean, streaming and CDs initially killed off the vinyl before it came back with a bang, because people loved that nostalgic element. As you mention briefly in this video, that whole ‘wholesome’ thing of getting your child to put money in a busker’s hat is quite a sweet thing to do, so I’m hoping - although I am sceptical - that that would continue going forward. Would be cool to get another update on this in the future. I find the whole technological impact on jobs thing fascinating. Next stop, androids collecting your tips for you? Hahahaha!
Glad you liked it! Sure thing I'll keep everyone updated next time I make a busking video. I already have since called up izettle and got the 'continuous payments' feature activated so that'll streamline things.
I would definitely say something if I didn't pay the right amount, especially if I notice there and then. If I only notice at home... Not sure... And yes, I'd feel save tipping by card because I also hardly ever have any cash on me. I also don't watch a lot of street performances, but I think I would appreciate the option of tipping by card.
The whole card reader thing is pretty clever and I’d be down to use one, but until they become more mainstream I’m definitely going to try and carry more cash on me so that I can give to buskers. The amount of times I’ve seen someone really good and just haven’t had the money on me is insane!
100% bring that back and pay for it. But what do you do when (this has happened to me), the cashier says, “eh don’t worry about it.” I reply, “well, nah, I should pay for it.” They insist, “no, no worries. You’re ok.” I really wanna pay, but now I don’t wanna make it weird or get the manager and get them in trouble.
I rarely have cash and when I do it is like a $20 bill. I recently had to run in a store and buy a drink to tip a musician with the change. Idk if you have Venmo (or something similar) in the UK but you could attach a little sign to the hat with your Venmo name and let people know they can give that way too so then they don’t have to swipe their card. Also, I would have told the person about the shirt but I’m probably stupidly honest. Just the other day I argued with audible.com for half an hour because they gave me more book credits than I payed for.
I think if there was a way to donate like on twitch through Paypal or something it may change a bit. I mean the money is unsafe for a while as ppl can take it back but it is less akward.
id only trust the card reader as long as i was certain i knew how much i was paying, and also if it was more accessible. i wouldnt sit around waiting for a queue or a crowd if there was only 1 card reader for example. also i am a student so that free shirt would literally be like christmas to me
Can you do a follow up video- like 3 months on?
I feel like it would be interesting
Indeed!
@@stevenbridges Did you do the follow up yet?
I wouldn't trust anyone on the street with a card, but to be fair, I don't trust half the places I go with card, which is why I carry cash everywhere. I'd like to imagine that people who aren't comfortable using a card in these sorts of situations would be carrying cash already
Very good point. I do think that one day cash will become completely redundant. I can't imagine it being around in 100 years at all to be honest.
@@stevenbridges Cash is becoming more and more important every day with the constant increase in mass surveillance.
There once was a man called Steven.
And people never believed him.
When he used to say
He did magic all day
Now look at what he's achievin'.
If you change achieving to achievin' it rhymes better with Steven.
Good point! Comment edited.
First of all, loved the video! Really great stuff, man.
I bet some people immediately think it’s a scam when you bring out the card reader. Part of that is probably because it’s a new thing to do as a street performer, like maybe a bit unexpected. But ultimately, since they’ll see your performance and everything is very genuine, I’d say people would be fine with it. It’s definitely a great idea!
6 years ago your comment and I've never heard of these things till right now. It would take time for people to trust this just like it did to use credit cards on the internet. At first no one trusted that either. I wonder how things have changed in 6 years.
3:39 I recall one time my dad bought us some treats in a bakery and the lady cashier maybe was in training and give back more change that it's supposed to, my dad realized that but didn't notify or give back the surplus change. The moral of the story is that if the person was in a probation period at charge of the cash register and get any complaint from a customer while being monitored, she is going to be fired for sure due to her human error, at end of the day while closing the sales any discrepancies in the padded amount and the cash counted must be amortized by the operator of the cash register. The amount given as surplus is chump changes compared to the prospect of losing the job.
Exactly!
loved this mate, a jolly good time, would recommend
Thanks maaaaaaate :)
im loving the new content and i am glad that your more proud of yours work makes me inspired to do more things im proud of
Your thoughts are really interesting, I don‘t think of a lot of em but for you you just slide them in there in your sentences, makes it a whole lot more interesting to watch u. Sooo I guess I‘ll just say THANK YOUUUUUU!
i would have said something about the shirt lol i would feel bad if i didn't
Have been in retail for around 10 years. Just recently got out. Obviously would have always appreciated someone telling me that I messed up. However, a lot of people would not do that. People take whatever is free. I would let the teller know as I have a guilty conscience.
Brian Blackmore It's not about having a guilty conscience. It's illegal to thieve. I cannot abide thieves and criminals in general.
Katie Ashplant Totally agree, I used to have to deal with theft and credit card fraud on the daily. Many people including myself work hard for their money. It’s not fair that some people think it’s okay to steal and skirt the system.
Brian Blackmore Exactly. We work hard for our money and then some punk comes in and thinks it's OK to take something without paying for it. I worked in the charity sector for a couple of years and people would come in all the time and nick things. And bearing in mind it's a charity. Disgraceful.
I'd tell them about the shirt, without a doubt. A month or so ago a magic dealer accidently sent me 2 TKO 2.0's (worth 80 euros ea), and I even spent 13 euros of my own to send it back! Come to think of it, maybe I should ask for a discount next time
haha yeah I don't think you should have paid the postage on that one
Positive, I got 2 sets of 2 :-)
While you were giving your pitch to the audience for the credit card tipping option I intuitively felt that the simple act of doing so would be an inducement for people to tip. Saying that it was a new, first time option subtly implied that you are actively trying to find non-aggressive ways to encourage folks to tip. The card option gives your show greater economic legitimacy in that it says, ‘this is a real business’. It separates you more from panhandlers and sellers of trinkets, etc.. It denotes that not only is the performance worth paying for but now that one has enjoyed themselves it’s time to pay for the experience. You can try different pitches for the card option but I actually think that being slightly awkward, “here’s a new thing I’m offering to you”, might prove effective, as not only is it new to you but it’s a new and unusual card experience for the audience. For now you may not get a lot of tips on the cards but presenting the option may have the effect of increasing cash tips.
P.S. - I changed my channel name. - John Obrien, gardener
Very very interesting comment!
Regarding the T-shirt. Knowingly not paying for something that you know you should pay for is stealing it.
I've definitely been in the shirt situation and kept it in my past, but I'd like to think now I'd make the right choice.
I think tipping via cc is fine. Less fun, but fine. I like the pre-set amount idea too - simple is key.
One other thing you could do to increase tips could be giving out a dirt cheap souvenir (a sticker, candy, etc...) from your show to anyone who wants to take one. Place them right next to your money hat or something.
Hi Steven!!! Good to see you posting more vids recently!!! You are my favourite British magician!!
Thanks very much Jonathan! Yeah I really need to upload consistently.
My jaw dropped the moment I saw Michael! :D Such a charismatic guy.
This is just another one of those reasons I love this guy! He's willing to take that risk and try something no one else or very few others are doing to see if it works! Whether or not this works out, people will look back on this as something to point to and say, "Hey, this guy showed that card readers (do/don't) work for busking." I just think that's gotta be cool, to know that you're one doing a test-run of something that has the potential to change a core aspect (money collection) of an entire industry!
Great video! Very interesting to see the results as I have thought about busking myself in the future! Keep up the hard work it’s great to see you back!!!
If the cashier just failed to ring up an item, I'd probably say something, but recently I bought some bolts from the hardware store, and the way it works there is basically I just bring them up to the till and tell her what the price is, and she misheard me and rang them up at a considerable discount. I don't reckon she can get in much trouble for that, because it's gonna be hard to tell how that happened or who was at fault, so I don't feel bad about that one. But also I didn't spot the mistake until I got home, and it definitely wasn't worth going back.
Oh yeah I don't think I'd go back to the shop in that case.
I love the variety of eccentric personalities in the busker community! Also, it's great to see your girlfriend in another video!
I think it’s a great idea, would definitely do it- the set amount would make it a lot easier as well so you could just walk up and tap, as opposed to being afraid of being judged for inputting a smaller amount
Wow, that’s an insane coincidence!! I only know Michael Vincent from his “Fool Us” appearances, but I instantly remembered him. He seemed like a genuinely top guy, and his sleight of hand-based routines were just insanely good! How cool was that!.........
I’ve had that happen at a register before. I tend to not say anything but I have before. The reason why I don’t; I don’t have a lot of money. If I can save a few dollars, I will, but only if it’s a big company as they have insurance for items. It doesn’t really hurt them to lose a soda or candy bar. I would never do that to a small store though, especially not my local magic shop. They forgot to ring something up once and I immediately mentioned it. They’re the reason I got into magic in the first place so I could never let myself be the reason they lost any money whatsoever.
We could create a busker's currency (With Steven's face on) that could be handed in to banks...
Dr BEN.
It'll be a huge success im sure
Hey, that's actually not a bad idea! They could set up token machines in busker-friendly areas. That could help with the credit card trust issue. It would be like arcade tokens or, uh, feeding the pigeons 😋
great work on the card reader.. great job on keeping up with the show on here
Michal Vincent has probably been doing magic since before your parents were dating! That guy is a giant, and a true gentlemen. :-) Cheers to you, sir! :-)
Yeah was so great to bump into him!
I’m so glad you made a video on this! I’ve been thinking recently that people carrying less cash must be affecting the earnings of street performers, so I’m really glad to hear you’re finding a way round it! I frequently can’t give any money to buskers because I don’t have any on me, so I’d be up for tipping them via card reader 🙌🏻
Also I would take the shirt because it’s coming from a big company who won’t really feel the impact of losing that money, but if it were a small, independent place then I’d definitely tell them they’re put it through wrong :)
In norway we have a smartphone application named "vipps" where you can easily give a small amount of somebody else with an account. I don't use it myself, but I think most norwegian city-goers use it.
Something like that might be a better solution since it inherently is easier to trust due to not being skimmable, but it may be harder to get tourists to use it
I JUST am getting ready to order a card reader that allows taps, swipes and chip enabled cards. Timing is everything! Also, I would (and have) correct(ed) mistakes a cashier makes. Imagine someone sees your show and since you don't charge, their attitude is, "Great - free show! They didn't charge me, so it's free - no need to leave a tip!"
Re shirt: if I’d noticed it before leaving or near to the shop, I would have said something. I have had one or two instances where I was really tired and just didn’t pay attention to the total, then got on a tram and went home and only noticed something was amiss when I looked at the receipt. I kept the thing those times because of the complication and time. I did once accidentally steal a soap off the counter in Lush when I picked up my other things. I got back to work, was mortified, took it back and the staff there were stunned. All of them said they would have kept it and I lost a little faith in humanity at that moment.
I think getting a card reader is so clever! If I'm in a hurry and pass a busker I like and I cant give them money it saddens me, but I have gone to atm's specifically to get money out for a busker (though in those cases you have to be sure to let them know that so by the time you come back they haven't left!). Having card payment available may add some time to the tipping process at the end of a show depending on your audience size, but I think the convenience will get you the tips you've been missing from cashless audience members. I think establishing from the get go that card payment is available could be good too? Everyone knows that buskers take cash, buskers have hats or instrument cases for payment, they now where to put their money. So maybe making it clear early on either visually (with a sign?) or verbally will give the audience that comfort or set the idea that this is a new option growing in the busking community. I can understand though that may be difficult or could come across as you asking for tips before doing the show they would be paying for. In terms of safety concerns, I guess the only way out it through? By introducing this new idea and as it grows people will learn and adapt, just like they have when cards were first introduced and how the technology has changed over time.
I would tell the clerk in the store that they forgot to scan my item AND THEN run out without paying for it whilst laughing maniacally.
Can you hold the reader and phone in the same hand? With idk, a rubber band or a case? Maybe hat, reader, and phone on the same platter/table?
Good to see you giving it a go Mr B! Hope it works for you!!
Yeah when I saw you chaps hatting on the door with it made me want to try it!
Nice to see Jasmine in the vlog there. I'd love to hear more about the card reader. I agree with your first thoughts on the card reader.
She's launching a channel soon :)
StevenBridges I know I've just seen her instagram post. How exciting for her new adventure.
YES STEVEN!! love the day in the life vid and the card reader thing is so interesting! aw man i wanna see one of your shows!! love it :P
I would find a way to mount the card reader to the brim of the hat, like a strap that goes around it. The. While "holding" the reader you are also holding the hat and serves dual purpose
Maybe you could get a wrist strap to mount the card reader on the same arm you hold your hat in? It might look odd but would be functional
i work in the retail sector and if i fuck up with a customer the money comes out of my wage at the end of the day which is already minimum wage.
steven you're a legend if you tell the cashier that they messed up
Having worked for a US bank, I'm comfortable enough with how to navigate the financial institution to tip a busker with my card. That said, there's definitely better methods that what you've currently got. DipJar comes to mind, but is expensive to start. An ideal solution to still capture that moment that is lost would be several dipjars (or DipJar alternatives) with different amounts so people can dip their card without having to wait for the phone or interact with the busker (for us socially anxious people).
What about putting the card reader or with a sign in it saying it's $X. If they really aren't expensive you could even have a second one with a lesser amount. Like a $1 and $5 option. Or a $5 and $20 option.
Steven, if she didn't scan the shirt, then the till still balances. It'll only come up as an issue during stocktake, at which point it'll just be written off as stolen or a system error.
Edit: Also, could you potentially speed up the card payments by having it preset to something like £3? Small enough amount to get lots of people tapping maybe.
Some kind of quick belt clip for hat? So you could quickly hold out the hat in between of accepting card payments?
And yeah i never buy stuff i can't afford (except sometimes... online... and deal with repercussions myself) and if something got missed at the cash register, i'll point it out, i've done it on every occasion before when i notice... even walked back to the store once... though half the time i'm so distracted, i'll probably never even notice that. I guess things being scanned in twice by accident happens too.
I think it works more in London then it might do elsewhere. I busking in a small northern town with an older population, and I highly suspect the card machine wouldn't work in that setting and that scale.
From the standpoint of the cashier, the error won't show up in the till. It will show up as 'shrink' when they do inventory.
Don't judge me for this but... I wouldn't have said anything and would've just taken the shirt for free. I never really understand when people say they're worried the staff member will get reprimanded cause how would they know it was that one person's mistake?
yeh same. I've done just that before, but it was only 2 quid, so meh.
man, in august i am going to visit London and i would be so happy if I could see your show :D
You should definitely have a set amount on the card reader. I'd be most likely to tip that way - not having to agonise over what the amount should be but just going with the recommended amount. Easy
Liked the video. Put off watching it for a couple days because I thought it was one of your rant videos and I wanted to be in the mood for it :-D (I don't dislike your rant videos, just so you know)
Haha haha oh dear have I fallen down the ‘rant videos’ thing. I need to stop that
If the shirt didn't get scanned, then the till should still balance because there's nothing recorded that says the shirt went out. However, once the year-end inventory is taken, they'll be short one shirt, but that's not terribly unusual. That being said, I would have said something.
I think the card is a second-level option. You should put up a venmo account and ask people to venmo you their donations, or whatever system they use there. Just have a sign. That's a much more trust-inspiring way to do it, or even a bank quickpay system, whatever they have there.
Of course I would mention it. I'd like to have seen a poll in the i of the video.
Just put in a poll
StevenBridges Great.
Great video - the main thing I don't like about the card reader is having to tell you how much I'd want to pay, I would just find that really awkward, so having it set to a predetermined amount would be better for me
Or, Steven Bridges, did Michael Vincent bump into YOU?
Dr BEN.
Steven you’re so creative man!! Keep up the awesome content dude!!🙏⚡️
Thanks Luke! Doing my best to actually post vids like a proper UA-camr!
how about a rig that holds the phone and card reader together, so you can hold them easily in one hand, the hat in the other? Or all three in one hand?
How do you deal with approach anxiety? I always feel like no matter how well I can do the trick, no matter how many times I’ve performed it successfully, I’ll mess it up and ruin magic for the person.
I'd definitely tip with a card, but only to people I know, or follow, like you Steven, but in general I wouldn't feel safe putting down my CC on the street. Pretty sure tipping like that will grow over time. Consider yourself a pioneer.
Just curious, have you continued forward with this or just gone over to Venmo, which is what I was automatically thinking of using as I get ready to head out and be a traveling vagabond along the West Coast of America.
Hi Steven, I wrote You from Argentina, My two mágicians Friends are actually working in the Fringe Festival, and have the same problem everyday, Lost money because the people wanna tips with electronic Style... How is the steps to get the posnet... You can help US? Thanks
Steven! Great video.
I think that different things might work in different places. In America (not sure if you guys have it across the pond) we have a card reader you plug into your phone called Square. It’s small and efficient, and most small businesses use it so most people know it’s legit. Totally streamlines what you’re trying to do by using only a phone, so you’d have your other hand free.
Maybe make an update video in a few months so we can see how things go? Would definitely help me as I would never think of using a card reader (great idea)!
Very cool video, loved the experiment thing!
I would have said something about the shirt. I've actually done stuff like that before. As for card/no card, I don't know if I would be trusting with using a credit card, but I'd definitely use Apple Pay to tip.
Keep up the good work!
All opinions:
I think one thing buskers get tipped more for is originality, and perhaps the very fact you have a card reader made people at the right moment go 'this guy is original for having a card reader, not seen that before and I liked his show'
Also card inherently makes people more willing to spend more as it's less physical in the transaction, and in general, people who are more wealthy don't carry cash, so you may get bigger tips with the cards from people who previously couldn't?
An iZettle! That's awesome, I wonder what the data would look like if you set the amount of a contactless tap to £2, and then worked your way up £1 at a time every day. I'm thinking there must be some kind of sweet spot? Nice video!
I've been thinking about the impact of contactless payments on buskers a lot recently for some reason and this is such a cool way to evolve.
although it does still keep me wondering about the impact of contactless on the homeless, and if they've been having the same drop as street performers because people just aren't carrying cash anymore.
since i never check the little papers i honestly don't think would even notice. Morally it would be better to go and pay the shirt but i might be on the side of "yeahy free shirt" partly because i would be too lazy to go through the huzzle to go back to the shop
That freaking floss tho, well done man... Nice vid!
Lot's of practice on that floss
Honesty is always the best policy...then you earn trust!!!!
Don't you have qr code for bank transfer?
Ha! Great video Steven !!!
Cheers Marcello! :)
I’d say put the card reader on a stand, like a camera tripod with a phone cradle that could hold the card reader. Then you can just point to it, like you point to the hat, and not have to juggle the reader in your hand.
super video Steven!
I never would’ve thought of this, quite interesting!
If I knew the busker already, like I know you from watching you on UA-cam, I'd be comfortable tipping with a card. Otherwise, I might worry it's a scam ... though now that I've seen it's a real thing, I'd probably hesitate less tomorrow than I would've yesterday. Lol
I almost always stop to count my change and I give back over-payments when it happens, which often surprises cashiers. Once I went to the grocery store and one of my items didn't get rung up, I think it was a pair of socks but not sure now because it was a year or so ago. I called the store after I got home and realized the error, and told them I was too tired to drive back but I'd be happy to give them my info over the phone, and they told me to just keep it. They were just happy to have an honest customer! I thought that was really sweet of them, too. :)
Does Inland Revenue (that's your version of our IRS, right?) watch your videos? Just asking. As to the shirt controversy, I've even gone back to stores when I discovered that I wasn't charged for things. I don't say that to pat myself on the back. It's just a matter of integrity to me. As to the card, you might want to consider bringing change for a 20=pound note (I don't have the symbol on my keyboard) with you, too. Contracts to sign over their first-born might be helpful as well.
Hi Steven, i'm a magician working with tips in restaurants and bars and i was thinking about having a system to take credit card and i see your video. Can you say me where to find it, do you need to pay avery month to have the right to use it or is there a charge in each payment? And did you use it in situation of tips in restaurants and if yes what where the reactions? Thank you.
I think it would be cool if there is a mini pop up shop where you would be able to buy something like casino chips with card. Then you could hand them to your kids and they could give them to buskers and still keep that feeling like cash. Buskers could go and cash theyr chips after work. I think this could be setted up with the City since buskers are part of the street performance culture. Either way, great video. Greetings from Finland.
Awesome video, keep it up!
Great videa and great topic. What are your thoughts on, rather than a card reader, giving your PayPal info so they can send money that way? That way they never have to worry about exposing CC info or getting scammed.
This is so interesting... I think i have mixed feelings about this but its the result of something that’ll impact a society in different realms both negatively and positively and its quite fascinating that we have reached this point in that specific field. Although i might not support this but I understand that it’ll be of great benefit to buskers in some sense...
What do you not like about it?
StevenBridges StevenBridges I wont make this long so I’ll try to sum it up... I think the idea of paying by cards especially to art and busking takes away a sense of the value of what you’re giving. It becomes all virtual, all numbers nothing real but the info. The difference when the money is in ur hand and you see whats in your hand and feel the intrinsic value it makes you realize what you’re giving away and the receiver feels it to. For me it feels that money becomes almost abstracted when its payed by a card and especially since many of those who come foreword to tip the hat are kids and with that they themselves and the performer also will feel differently to them the feeling they get whether its joy or satisfaction or whatever u wanna call it it also becomes abstract in a sense and for me that’s troubling because of the consequences of it. But I can also see the inevitable positive impact and benefits it’ll have... but yeah thats all
Very forward looking!!! Wonderful!!!!
I'd be a little cautious of using a card reader in the streets unless I knew the person. Unlike a shop you're not made of bricks so you could potentially way over-charge and then scamper off never to be seen again. BUT they don't have to pay by card unless they're comfortable with it and it's only going to be a more and more acceptable way to pay. Having that option available can only be a good thing!
Also I'd totally go back and pay for the shirt.
I'd come back next week to buy a pair of socks or something, and as I was being rung up I'd say "Oh, last week this happened...."
In London they are trialling out those card readers for buskers. I found out through my friend Charlotte Campbell who was interviewed on Sky News and BBC News.
Ah a mutual friend! Charlotte’s great!
Small world 😁
Is everyone there have wireless payment on they credit card ? bc in France that's not the case, it's an extra option so it's also an extra cost...
Awesome to see Mike Vincent
You are an awesome slight of hand magician
Thanks Vincent
Oh my god i was screaming when i saw you replied thank you so much for what you do you got me into slight of hand magic when i was 12 i am 14 now and you are such a great person keep it up
SUPER interesting and thought-provoking video, Steven! I would definitely return the clothes, and on the whole card reader thing, I wonder if this will be the latest thing that kind of clings on despite technological advancements. I mean, streaming and CDs initially killed off the vinyl before it came back with a bang, because people loved that nostalgic element. As you mention briefly in this video, that whole ‘wholesome’ thing of getting your child to put money in a busker’s hat is quite a sweet thing to do, so I’m hoping - although I am sceptical - that that would continue going forward.
Would be cool to get another update on this in the future. I find the whole technological impact on jobs thing fascinating. Next stop, androids collecting your tips for you? Hahahaha!
Glad you liked it! Sure thing I'll keep everyone updated next time I make a busking video. I already have since called up izettle and got the 'continuous payments' feature activated so that'll streamline things.
StevenBridges Oh, cool! It’ll be interesting to see how that affects things. Best of luck with it!
I would definitely say something if I didn't pay the right amount, especially if I notice there and then. If I only notice at home... Not sure...
And yes, I'd feel save tipping by card because I also hardly ever have any cash on me. I also don't watch a lot of street performances, but I think I would appreciate the option of tipping by card.
Good job keeping yourself at the top of the wave
The whole card reader thing is pretty clever and I’d be down to use one, but until they become more mainstream I’m definitely going to try and carry more cash on me so that I can give to buskers. The amount of times I’ve seen someone really good and just haven’t had the money on me is insane!
That's very considerate of you! :)
100% bring that back and pay for it. But what do you do when (this has happened to me), the cashier says, “eh don’t worry about it.”
I reply, “well, nah, I should pay for it.”
They insist, “no, no worries. You’re ok.”
I really wanna pay, but now I don’t wanna make it weird or get the manager and get them in trouble.
Very profound thought. You could very well be correct about the whole carrying currency thing in the near future.
Certainly food for thought.
I rarely have cash and when I do it is like a $20 bill. I recently had to run in a store and buy a drink to tip a musician with the change.
Idk if you have Venmo (or something similar) in the UK but you could attach a little sign to the hat with your Venmo name and let people know they can give that way too so then they don’t have to swipe their card.
Also, I would have told the person about the shirt but I’m probably stupidly honest. Just the other day I argued with audible.com for half an hour because they gave me more book credits than I payed for.
I think if there was a way to donate like on twitch through Paypal or something it may change a bit. I mean the money is unsafe for a while as ppl can take it back but it is less akward.
with that Scottish guy who got stuff from Primark, Did u put subtitles because he is Scottish so most won't understand him :)
What exactly is busking? We don't really do it in the US to my knowledge.
id only trust the card reader as long as i was certain i knew how much i was paying, and also if it was more accessible. i wouldnt sit around waiting for a queue or a crowd if there was only 1 card reader for example.
also i am a student so that free shirt would literally be like christmas to me