The Idiots Guide to the World of a Professional Dealer
Sick of the 9 – 5 rat race and wanting to get some extra bang for buck in this game of life? If a passion for the cards is right up your alley, ditch the dreary and jump into the exciting life of professional Blackjack dealing. It’s social, forever changing and can earn you some great coin in the process. But just what are the skills needed to be a pro and maybe secure that next extra slot on Casino Royale?
Firstly, you need to know how to play and if it’s a passion of yours, you’re probably one step ahead. But if you’re a little green around the gills, a good place to start would be checking out some of the top Blackjack casinos online, through reputable sites like MrCasinova.com. Learn the basics then practice, practice, practice and you’ll be a card shark in no time. Then it’s time to fine tune your skills towards that of a dealer rather than player to really sink your teeth into it.
Key Skills of a Pro Dealer
Like cards and chips, players and dealers fit together seamlessly and you can’t have one without the other. There are a few key practices to being a great dealer though, and we’ve narrowed them down for you.
Act and Look Professional
People won’t be willing to part with their money to any old slob out there. Look the part and act like your job is important. If punters don’t stay at your table for long, no tips for you and soon they’ll be no job for you either.
Be Patient
Let’s face it, in any customer service job you’re going to get someone who blames their shortfalls on you. It comes with the territory and how you manage that will set you apart. Be calm, don’t take it personally and continue with your job. When it turns around for them, they’ll have forgotten all the bad names they called you and will be your best friend again, guaranteed.
Stay Focussed
Splitting pots and calculating bets isn’t always easy so stay in the game. Remaining focussed on the job at hand is essential to keeping up with the play.
Sorting the Winners from the Wannabes
Now you’ve got the main ingredients sorted, let’s add some spice and really get those flavours going. To be make it big out there, you’ve got to stand out from the crowd, and with dealing, that means being fast and accurate with just a little drop of charisma.
Practice will always make perfect and honing your skills is going to make you appear more professional but also allow you to enjoy what you’re doing so much more. It’s like muscle memory in the end and you’ll be amazed at just how fast those cards will fly from the shoe in no time. But it only takes one mistake to lose the confidence of the players at your table, so start slow. Remain focussed on getting things right and have faith that your speed will come, because it will. The icing on the top is your charisma and it’s possibly the hardest skill to learn. Every player is different, so you’ll have to blend into their way of acting without losing your main advantage; being yourself. Some players hate idle chit-chat, some love the banter, but they can all smell a phony so keep it real and stay true to who you are. Just make sure you have fun with it, or you may as well be back on the daily grind of the rat race!
But What’s in it for Me?
Having all the skills of a pro dealer and being at the top of your game is going to open a plethora of doors for anyone looking to make the most of their job. There are casinos on every corner of the globe and they’re all constantly on the look out for the best dealers to get more bums on seats. It’s a great way to fund your travels.
How do I get started?
To embark on a career as a croupier, or casino dealer, understanding the prerequisites and opportunities within this profession is essential. This career path demands not just a passion for casino games but also adherence to certain legal and educational requirements, depending on your geographical location. Whether you aim to work at a bustling land-based casino or within the dynamic realm of online live casinos, the journey starts with meeting the minimum legal age requirement, which varies from 18 to 21 years across different countries.
Educational and Licensing Requirements
A fundamental requirement for aspiring croupiers is achieving a high school level of education, such as a GED, with further education in relevant courses being beneficial. Equally crucial is obtaining a gaming license, which serves as a legal endorsement for your role as a dealer. This licensing process can differ significantly from one region to another. For instance, in British Columbia (BC), Canada, the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch (GPEB) oversees the regulation and licensing, requiring applicants to pass through a series of steps including application submission, background checks, and evidence of suitable training or experience. It’s noteworthy that a clean legal record is imperative for successful licensing, alongside flexibility in work hours and preparedness for an initial modest income.
The Financial Perspective: Earnings of a Croupier
In terms of remuneration, the earnings of a croupier in BC can range from CAD $20,000 to CAD $35,000 annually at the entry level, with experienced dealers enjoying higher wages. Tips constitute a significant portion of a croupier’s income, fluctuating based on various factors such as the casino’s locale, the clientele, and the individual’s customer service proficiency. The distinction between full-time and part-time positions further affects annual earnings, alongside the possibility of receiving additional benefits and bonuses from certain employers. Notably, croupiers in online casinos may face different compensation structures and tipping norms compared to their counterparts in traditional settings.
Employment Opportunities in the Casino Industry
Job seekers can explore vacancies on casino websites in the town where you live or through popular online job portals such as Indeed. These platforms often list available positions for croupiers and casino dealers, making the job search easier.
Preparing for Your Role: Training and Development
Prospective croupiers have various options for obtaining the necessary training, ranging from private casino training schools to community colleges and online programs. These educational pathways cover essential skills required for managing games, handling cards, and ensuring optimal customer service. Some casinos also offer in-house training programs, specifically designed for newly hired staff.
The Live Dealer vs. Land-Based Croupier Dilemma
While the core responsibilities of live dealer casino croupiers and traditional land-based casino croupiers overlap significantly, the environments they operate in present distinct challenges and experiences. Live dealers interact with players remotely, via cameras and microphones, contrasting with the direct, face-to-face interactions at land-based casinos. This difference necessitates a unique set of skills and personality traits, especially for those engaging in the increasingly popular TV game show-themed live dealer games.
Embarking on Your Croupier (Dealer) Career
Choosing a career as a croupier is a decision that promises a journey filled with excitement, challenges, and continuous learning. It requires resilience, an openness to feedback, and a commitment to excellence. With the right mindset, preparation, and adherence to legal and educational prerequisites, aspiring croupiers can navigate their way to a rewarding career in the casino industry, ensuring they remain adaptable and eager to absorb new knowledge and skills that enhance their professional growth.