Business writer Haleluya Hadero seized on a trend that garnered strong opinions from many when they are asked to tip everywhere they go, resulting in an organic and relatable story that generated tons of buzz even several days after it was published. She interviewed consumers – including one who complained about being asked to tip her mortgage company – and dug into the issue of etiquette and whether it's ok to walk away. She also talked with a worker who depends on those tips to pay his rent and the disappointment he feels when someone is willing to shell out money for an expensive coffee but not for the person who is serving it.
The story generated tons of buzz, including video produced by Teresa Crawford. Haleluya worked with her editor to come up with a robust social media plan for Twitter and Instagram, as well as recording an audio story and her first AP TikTok.