How to Become a Blackjack Dealer
Blackjack is the casino game that has the highest odds for winning – especially when you play with basic strategy. To maximize your chances of winning, you need to be able to read the dealer’s face card and know how to make the right decisions in difficult situations, like when to split or hit. It’s also important to understand the value of the different cards and how to count them correctly. This will help you determine the best moves in each situation, and minimize your house edge.
To become a blackjack dealer, you’ll need to have at least a high school diploma. You’ll be responsible for dealing the cards, shuffling and mixing the decks, ensuring that all bets are placed correctly, and maintaining order at the table. You’ll also be responsible for preventing cheating and other types of misbehavior at the table. You’ll need to be able to work in shifts and handle stress well.
During the game, players can win a hand by getting 21 or as close to it as possible. They can also lose a hand by going over 21, which is called busting. This happens when a player draws more cards than they need to and the total value of their hand exceeds 21. The dealer can win a hand by getting a blackjack, or by getting 21 themselves.
In most casinos, the minimum and maximum bet per hand is printed on a sign or displayed on the blackjack table. These limits vary by casino and table, so be sure to check the rules before playing.
Dealers must be able to pay out all bets quickly and accurately. This requires the ability to read, understand and remember all of the rules for each game. They must also be on the lookout for any players who are trying to cheat or take advantage of other players or the casino.
One of the most common mistakes that blackjack dealers make is not doubling down enough. The rules for doubling are different for every type of blackjack game, so it’s important to learn the proper doubling strategy for each. This way, you’ll be able to make the most accurate decision when it comes time to double.
If the dealer shows an ace, players can place a side bet of up to half their original wager. If the dealer has blackjack, the insurance bet pays 2 to 1. If the dealer doesn’t have blackjack, the insurance bet loses.
Statistically, the worst hand in blackjack is a value of 16. This means that you’ll be likely to bust. Therefore, it’s recommended that you always split two 8’s if the dealer has a 10, unless the table doesn’t allow it. This will give you a much better chance of winning the hand and it won’t cost you as many chips if you happen to bust.