Blackjack is a popular casino game where players place bets on their hands to win against the dealer. The dealer stands behind a semicircular table and deals cards to each player.
There are a number of different variations on the rules of blackjack, but most games follow a standard set of guidelines. This helps reduce the house edge for the casino and makes the game more interesting to players.
The game is played with a deck of 52 cards and is based on probability rather than chance. Using basic strategy, players can reduce the house advantage by following the rules of the game and making sound decisions.
A dealer’s ‘tell’
The dealer makes subconscious expressions or gestures in the course of a game that can affect how the players act. These ‘tells’ can help increase a player’s edge by giving them insight into what cards the dealer may have.
Dealer schools
Dealer schools are often held at casinos to train new dealers on the fundamentals of blackjack. This helps ensure that the dealers will be able to provide quality service to guests and handle their cards responsibly.
Active listening
Blackjack dealers need to listen to guests’ requests and be able to answer questions quickly. They use their interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with guests and guide them to make appropriate wagers.
A blackjack dealer may also need to give updates on the progress of the game. This may include telling guests when to turn over their cards or explaining the rules of the game.
The job of a blackjack dealer is very rewarding and offers excellent career prospects for people who enjoy working with others. A blackjack dealer’s salary is typically between $26,000 and $43,000 per year, depending on the state and location of employment.
If you are interested in a career as a blackjack dealer, consider attending a CSWE-accredited bachelor’s degree program. This can give you the necessary training to land a job in this fast-growing industry.
Blackjack dealer tells
One of the most important aspects of playing a good blackjack game is to understand the value of your cards. Each card has a certain value, and aces count as either 1 or 11.
Understanding this can help you decide whether to hit, stand, double down or surrender your hand. You can also calculate the probability of your winning a particular hand, which will allow you to decide whether to play or not.
Aside from knowing the values of your cards, you should know the basic rules of blackjack. This will help you determine the best time to hit, stand, double down or surrender.
You can even learn how to read a dealer’s “tell” in order to increase your odds of winning. Some of these ‘tells’ vary from dealer to dealer, but they are relatively common and can help you to predict what cards the dealer may have.
Insurance
If the dealer shows an ace, you can bet that they have a blackjack (a two-card 21). You can place up to half of your current bet on the ‘insurance bar’ above their cards.