Blackjack is a popular casino game with high payout odds that can earn you a lot of cash. This game of panache and strategy requires a lot of skill and effort to beat the dealer. However, the house edge is higher than most other casino games and can take away your winnings if you’re not careful. To minimize the house advantage and maximize your chances of winning, follow these tips on how to play blackjack.
The first step in playing blackjack is choosing a seat. Typically, blackjack tables only have room for five to seven players. If you see an empty seat, it’s usually okay to join the table (unless chips or a coat are holding the spot for someone who’s stepping away for a moment). However, many casinos have a “No-Midshoe Entry” policy and require that you wait until after the shuffle before joining a blackjack game in progress.
Once you’re at the blackjack table, you’ll need to make a decision on whether or not to hit, stand, split, or surrender. There are a few exceptions to this rule, but the general rules of blackjack are that you should always hit if your hand is worth 10 or more and stand if it’s a weaker hand. If you’re unsure what to do, consult a strategy card to find out which move is best for your situation.
When you’re dealing with a player, it’s important to be able to communicate effectively. One of the main skills a blackjack dealer needs to have is active listening. This involves attentively hearing the customer and then paraphrasing what was said to ensure that you understand it. In addition, a blackjack dealer should be able to explain the rules of the game and answer any questions that customers may have.
Another key blackjack dealer skill is being able to read the players at the table. This is especially true when it comes to counting cards. Counting allows you to know when the house edge is going to flip and can help you make big bets when the count is favorable. However, it’s important not to rely too heavily on counting cards. Counting can make the game more mentally exhausting than it needs to be.
The final thing you need to do to be a good blackjack dealer is to avoid giving the players information that they shouldn’t have. This can include exposing the dealer’s hole card for an extra second or showing them a card that they shouldn’t have seen. This can lead to cheating and is something that blackjack dealers need to be aware of when they’re dealing with players.
