Blackjack is a card game played by two or more players against the dealer. A player wins when their hand total is higher than the dealer’s, but not over 21. The game is normally played with one to eight 52-card decks. Number cards score their respective values, face cards count as 10, and Aces can either be treated as 1 or 11. The game starts with the players placing their bets. The dealer then deals the players two cards and takes two cards himself (1 facing up, the other face down).
After examining their initial cards, players make playing decisions. If they want another card, they signal this to the dealer by making a beckoning gesture or scratching the table behind their cards with their finger. Players may also request a split of pairs, but only once per round.
The dealer will then take additional cards or stand according to predefined rules. If the dealer has a blackjack, the players will lose their original bet; however, if the dealer’s hand is a total of 17 through 21, it will push, meaning that the players get their original wager back. After the hands are revealed, the dealer will sweep up the cards and shuffle for the next round.
When interviewing for a position as a blackjack dealer, employers will often ask you to physically demonstrate your shuffling and dealing technique. They are looking for a good balance between speed and accuracy, as these skills are critical to the casino experience. Hiring managers also want to ensure that you understand the rules of the game, which are a fundamental part of the job.
Blackjack is an excellent choice for those interested in a casino career because it provides the opportunity to work on evenings, weekends and holidays, when most casinos are open. Generally, you will be expected to stand for long periods of time while working a gaming table and will be regularly exposed to secondhand smoke and fumes. In addition, you will be required to talk frequently with customers.
As a blackjack dealer, your job is to help players make the best decisions at the table. This includes explaining the rules of the game and ensuring that all bets are placed correctly. It’s important to be able to handle the pressure of the fast-paced game without losing focus on the customer. If you are unable to handle the pressure, you should probably reconsider this type of casino employment. There are many other positions out there with lower demands.