Becoming a Blackjack Dealer

Blackjack is a game where the player’s objective is to beat the dealer. This is accomplished by obtaining a hand value closer to 21 than that of the dealer, without going over. It is a card game played on a special table with a number of players (usually seven) and a dealer. The cards are dealt in a shoe, and the decks of cards are shuffled frequently. This prevents any one from counting cards and keeps the game fair.

The game is governed by a set of rules that must be followed in order to play. Players place their bets in the betting areas on the blackjack table and are then dealt two cards by the dealer, face up. They may then choose to’stay’ (keep their hand as is) or ‘draw’ (request more cards). There are several different situations that can occur, and the player must make the best decision based on the rules.

Dealers are trained to deal blackjack in casinos and other gambling establishments. They must pass a background check in order to be certified for the position. They also must have competence in mathematics, which is used to calculate the odds of a player’s winning or losing a hand. In addition, dealers are required to have good customer service skills and know the ins and outs of their particular casino’s blackjack rules and procedures.

Most blackjack dealers are paid a minimum of $15 per hour. In addition, they may be eligible for tips based on the quality of their work and their ability to entertain customers. Dealerships often host job fairs at local colleges and community centers to recruit applicants. Those interested in becoming a blackjack dealer can attend these events to learn more about the positions and to speak directly with hiring managers.

Once hired, a blackjack dealer is provided training and ongoing guidance from the management of the casino. Depending on the employer, this training may include classroom instruction on basic rules of the game and hands-on practice dealing at a live casino. The manager will also explain the specific policies of his company regarding customer service and blackjack dealing.

A blackjack dealer is usually required to update customers on the status of their hands at the table. He will explain the wagers placed, and may even tell them what their chances of winning are. He will often use non-verbal cues, such as nodding, to show that he is listening and understanding the customers’ thoughts. Often, dealers will also paraphrase the customers’ statements to ensure that they fully understand what is being communicated.