The One At The Table Not Playing

 

The Good Guy/Bad Guy of the Table

 

Every table you have sat at, there is always one. Well of course, because if there wasn't, there wouldn't be a game right? At home games, it may change after each hand. In casinos, there is one at the table making a living. You've guessed it. I'm talking about the Dealer.

To some, dealers wear capes, others say that dealers work with the devil. They can deal you the winning hand or cost you everything just by flipping cards over. There are players who are regulars at some casinos and know the rotation of dealers. They build a casual bond but nothing that can jeopardize the game.

Dealers are probably undervalued and don't get the credit they deserve. "Why should they? They are doing their job." Just like you and I, when we work, we like some type of appreciation. How many times have you seen someone yell at a dealer or throw a drink at them? Hopefully you've never participated in that. Just remember they are human too!

 

Women in Poker Hall of Fame member, Jan Fisher, was a dealer in Las Vegas from the 70's through the 90's. In an interview with High Roller Radio, she talked about how there were no rules in the 70's. Players would abuse the dealers, physically and verbally. She talked about how players could put their cigarettes out on dealers and get away with it. Of course, you do that today, you will be in the back of a cop car immediately!

 

Dealers are fans of the games just like you are. They enjoy the atmosphere, the interaction, and the plays.  In addition, there are things they hate that other players do!

 

1) Bringing the Stank to the Table

When a table is full, everyone is sitting pretty close to each other. Most of you do your normal ritual of waking up, bathing, applying deodorant, brushing your teeth, etc. Others were never taught the importance of washing themselves...... on a regular basis! Dealers, just like other players at the table, have to deal with the stench that some people bring to a table. This tip is not just for the dealer really but everyone at the table. Before you go to play, scrub yourself with some soap and water!

 

2.) Talking Smack or Any Other Abuse

This was mentioned earlier. There is no need to talk a dealer down after you lose a hand. Don't throw your cards and/or drink. Pretty much, don't be a baby. In the event a dealer makes a mistake, address it to the dealer or Pit Boss.

3.) Laying the Rules or Outcome of a Play/Hand

When a hand is done and there is question on who won, some players get too excited and have to shout over everyone and touch the cards/chips. Don't do that! Dealers have been trained and schooled on this type of situation. Sit your butt down and let them do their job! They don't care that you deal at a home game every 2nd Tuesday of the month and saw this same hand played out. This is one of the responsibilities of the dealer.

 

4.) The Table's Poker Coach

This is a universal hate for all players at the table. When two players are heads up and Player A beats Player B. Player A says "I knew you had that the entire time. That's why I played the way I did." Then Player A continues on by explaining to Player B how they played the hand wrong, didn't notice the betting pattern, how they can improve their game. Just like you, dealers hate when this takes place. Pretty sure that if you were to jump a player like this, the dealer would probably throw some punches in there....

 

5.) Tips 

Don't get this confused. Dealers love tips. Just like waiters/waitresses, most dealers, on average, make around $8 an hour. If you have ever tried to make it off of minimum wage, it's stuff. Especially if you have a family to support. "Well how often do I tip? How much should I tip?" This is totally up to you! Some players are generous and tip $1 on every win. Some other players only tip when they win big hands. Vegasclick.com recommends that you tip a dealer $5 every hour, regardless if you are winning or losing. Gamblingsites.com recommends any winnings under $1000, tip 10%, bigger jackpots 5%, mega jackpots 3%.   Just like at restaurants, tipping depends on services provided.

 

6.) Abusing the Extra Fun 

If you are in a casino that still allows smoking, do not blow your smoke in the face of the dealer! No one on this planet likes it so what makes the dealer and different. Also, yes your drinks are free but know your limit. People’s attitudes and demeanors change once a certain amount of alcohol gets in them. Along with everyone else at the table, the dealer has to deal with your ignorance.

 

These points and many others that weren't listed are additional things to help your experience in a game a little bit more enjoyable. Do you need to obey these? You're a grown man or woman, you can do whatever you please. These are merely suggestions to make sure the dealer doesn't cost you your stack.

 

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