I have that happen here in Brisbane all the time... at the Story Bridge Hotel, at the 5th Element, at The Grand Central, at the Archive.... and in Melbourne, at the Taphouse. I don't mind that as long as it isn't repeated, and it usually isn't.
As for tips for good service...
Scenario 1. My beer is nearly empty, and the bartender has walked by several times, seemingly with something else to do, like wipe off the counter or to prep some mix, or maybe talk to someone else who works there. My beer is drained, and still they walk by. I guess it's up to me to jump up and wave saying that I want to spend $8 on another beer.... or leave. No tip... here, in the states or anywhere. Business is lost, and bad press can be had, either by reviews, comments on websites, and word-of-mouth. This may in turn prevent new business.
Scenario 2. My beer is near empty, and without any prompts, the bartender askes if I want another beer. I like this, and usually will have another, and another. Usually I'll leave them a tip fir their good customer service. In my book, good customer service means the business makes a bit more money, and gets good press with reviews, etc. which may in turn bring in new business.
It's the customer's choice in the end.
Just my 2
