Jadranka Spasojevic has been in the housekeeping business for 16 years. From making beds to dusting furniture and vacuuming the floors, Spasojevic does a thorough job.

“It takes maybe two hours in a room sometimes,” she said.

It’s work that usually isn’t seen by hotel guests, which is why etiquette experts say many people don’t realize tips are accepted.

“We take it for granted,” said etiquette teacher Kim Goddard. “We get a nice room. It’s beautiful and we have a good night’s sleep. We go out for the day knowing we’re going to return and when we return, it’s like the first time all over again because it’s just so beautiful. Somebody makes that happen. And they’re not making a lot of money.”

Marriott managed hotels, like the The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club, are hoping to create awareness with a new initiative launched just this week. 

It’s called “The Envelope Please” and is part of a partnership with the non-profit organization A Woman’s Nation, founded by former California first lady Maria Shriver.

Hotels will now be putting envelopes in rooms, as a friendly reminder to guests that they can tip if they appreciated the service.

In a statement, Marriott said the tipping program is not intended to be a substitute for competitive wages. 

Room attendants at Marriott managed hotels are paid salaries that are above minimum wage and receive benefits and training, the statement read in part.

As for how much to leave, Goddard said the service industry standard of 20 percent is not necessarily the rule of thumb.  

“It really depends on the person and what they’re able to do,” Goddard said. “This is going to be a new thing. Most people aren’t aware of tipping. But if you think about it, it’s a service we’re receiving.”

Goddard said even a few dollars a day can make a difference.  But for housekeepers like Spasojevic, the show of gratitude is priceless.

“It’s not about money for me,” Spasojevic said. “I like to see that because they think I did a good job.”