Blackjack is the card game of choice for many intellectuals, mathematicians and people who like a real chance at beating the house. It is an entertaining game that has stood the test of time, changing with fashions, fads and public tastes. It is a game for people who want to win, and it can be an extremely lucrative game, especially for players who understand the rules.
The dealer deals each player two cards face up, then deals themselves one card facing up and the other facing down (the “hole”). Players can choose to hit, stand, double down or split their hand. They win when their hand totals higher than the dealer’s, or when the dealer busts (has a hand that goes over 21). Players must also place bets in order to participate. Generally, cash is not used to make bets; players must use casino chips to do so.
If a player has an ace and a 10 in their first two cards, they have a “natural” or “blackjack,” which pays one and a half times the amount of the bet. The dealer will pay off the bets of any players with naturals and collect from those who do not. In addition, the dealer will offer insurance to players who have a hand of 17 or more, and this pays 2 to 1. This side bet is not mandatory, but it is often attractive to players because of its favorable odds.
A blackjack dealer works at the casino’s table and is responsible for dealing cards to the players and accepting bets from them. This is a job that requires stamina as it involves standing for long periods of time and often being exposed to secondhand smoke. It is also a fast-paced job, as dealers must be able to process bets quickly and accurately.
Blackjack dealers must be entertaining and personable to encourage players to tip them. This is why it is important for them to be observant and aware of the players’ facial expressions and body language. This way, they can avoid giving away any tells. Novices tend to misunderstand the rules of blackjack, but experts understand it inside and out.
The goal of a blackjack dealer is to keep the game running smoothly, making sure that all bets are placed correctly and that the rules of blackjack are followed. They must also be able to multitask, as they will often be dealing multiple hands at once. They can also be asked to take on other duties at the casino, including cleaning the tables and assisting with various events. This is a great career for anyone who wants to work on their feet and enjoys working with people. It does not require a specific degree, as it is possible to begin with a high school diploma. In addition, it is easy to find employment in casinos on cruise ships and at land-based establishments. The salary is decent as well, and the hours are flexible.