Rolling the Dice on Blackjack Dealing
Considering a Career as a Blackjack Dealer? Here's the Insider Scoop!
Ever dreamt of diving into the thrilling world of casinos? Is being a blackjack dealer your calling? Before you rush off to the recruitment office, let's explore the pros and cons of this exciting yet challenging career. If you couldn't care less about dealing cards, this may offer a fresh perspective.
Why Take the Plunge?
First things first, what's your drive? Is it the cash? Sorry to burst your bubble, but blackjack dealers aren't hitting the jackpot anytime soon. Pay varies greatly from casino to casino, but in North America, dealers are usually compensated like waiters. There's an hourly wage that barely meets minimum requirements, and the rest comes from tips. A generous tipper can make things comfortable, while a tightwad can leave you strapped for rent or groceries.
Career or Just a Job?
Perhaps you're aiming for higher in the casino industry, like landing a gig as a pit boss. Starting as a blackjack dealer offers valuable experience to help climb the ladder. However, if you've been dealing for five years and haven't seen any progress, it might be time to reconsider your career path.
In casual chit-chat at parties, fellow diners are intrigued when you share that you're a blackjack dealer. But remember, dealing cards is not the hard part. The real work is spending hours on your feet, dealing with tedium, and navigating rude patrons. That's the grind.
Requirements Galore
This isn't your typical routine 9-to-5 job. New recruits can expect to work nights, weekends, and holidays - the busiest times for casinos. This lifestyle can put strains on personal relationships, especially if you're a parent with young children, as getting home at 5 am may throw off your little one's schedule. To make things work, it's crucial to have a strong support system.
Your math skills had better be on point. If you struggled in that department, dealing cards might not be your cup of tea. Mishandling card counting or blackjack payouts could leave you in a lurch. And there's no time for calculators – you'll have to work quickly and accurately.
The atmosphere can get colorful, with people swearing at the table. You have to learn to tune out the obscenities, most of the time they're directed at the game rather than you. But for the rare exception, it's best to defer to your supervisor and let them handle the situation.
The Silver Lining
There's more to this gig than drawbacks. Sharing in the thrill of victory with patrons and applying your blackjack expertise by offering smart advice can earn you extra tips. Pride in a job well done, knowing basic strategy like the back of your hand, and gaining the respect of regulars can mean more cash in your pocket.
Job security is another advantage. Casinos have a tendency to be recession-proof, meaning you could be employed for life. If your local casino shut down, there are plenty more across North America (and the globe) eager for skilled dealers.
Once a distant dream of becoming a professional athlete or pilot, this is my fourth career and a practical solution while searching for something better. So why did I become a blackjack dealer? I needed a job and had the math skills, social grace, and gambling instincts to make it work. Want to try your luck? Don't forget to tip your dealer.
- Becoming a blackjack dealer in a casino could be your calling if you dream of joining the world of gambling and casinos.
- As a blackjack dealer, the hourly wage is minimal, with the rest of your income coming from tips - a generous tipper can make things comfortable, while a tightwad can leaving you struggling for financial needs.
- Starting as a blackjack dealer offers valuable experience and potentially leads to higher positions within the casino industry, but if no progress is seen after five years, reconsidering your career path might be necessary.
- The job requires dealing with tedium, working late nights, weekends, and holidays, and having good math skills to avoid mistakes in card counting or blackjack payouts, as well as handling potential profanity from rude patrons.
- Blackjack dealing offers job security, as casinos tend to be recession-proof, and there are numerous opportunities available across North America and globally, making it a practical solution for some seeking employment.
