A casino dealer is the intermediary between the player and the casino. They are also called the croupier or banker. They announce the rules of the game and oversee the proceedings, shuffle the cards, distribute chips, and calculate bets.
History of appearance
Gambling originates in ancient times. The Romans enjoyed throwing dice and placing bets on events taking place in the arena of the first circus. Even then, special people performed administrative functions.
Casinos in their traditional form began to appear in the 18th century. The profession of croupier didn’t yet exist. However, there were people who stood behind the novice player and helped them understand the rules.
December 26 is Croupier’s Day.
The 20th century became the era of development of the gambling business inAmericaGambling establishments began to open. They needed qualified personnel, so specialized dealer schools were created. The first such establishment opened in Moscow in the 1990s.
The specifics of a casino dealer’s work
The banker works in two roles: supervising the gameplay and communicating with customers, maintaining a positive atmosphere at the tables.
The responsibilities of a casino dealer include:
- Playing the game at the tables.This is poker,roulette, blackjackThe croupier must know the rules well and be able to explain them to the client in accessible language.
- Distributing chips and shuffling cards.Sometimes this function is performed by a separate employee – a chipper.
- Strict control.Cheating at tables is not permitted. If rules are violated, the employee must inform the client promptly.
Thus, the dealer plays an important role in ensuring the quality of the gaming process.
Important nuances in work
Appearance is important at work, and a strict dress code must be followed. The following rules apply to women:
- Easy installation.
- French manicure or red polish.
- Neat makeup.
The following rules have been introduced for men:
- Short haircut or long hair pulled back into a ponytail.
- Shaved face or neat beard.
- Well-groomed hands.
They work in uniforms provided by the gambling establishment. Clothing must always be clean. One ring is permitted as jewelry.
There is a dress code for male and female dealers.
The second important aspect is communication with customers. Guests are emotional, especially after a big loss. It’s important not to fall for provocations, as this can present the establishment in a bad light. Security will escort anyone who disturbs the peace.
Contact with customers outside the casino is prohibited. Some people see such interactions as a benefit and may persuade the dealer to help them. Such a case, for example, occurred in the United States. A casino employee colluded with guests by revealing cards during the deal. The accomplices regularly won. The gambling club’s total loss was one million dollars.
Characteristics of a good croupier
Not everyone can become a croupier. Key skills are required.
| Skill | Characteristic |
| Stress resistance | The dealer is the primary target for clients’ anger when they lose. They may make threats, throw cards and objects off the table, making the job stressful. |
| Good mathematical abilities | A dealer’s job carries financial risks. They must calculate bets mentally. A mistake can cost them their salary, and sometimes even their job, as it damages the establishment’s reputation. A knack for mathematics is essential. |
| Eloquence | The croupier must be able to encourage the client to play and maintain a good atmosphere at the table. |
| Developed fine motor skills | Distributing chips and shuffling cards are among the duties. To do this quickly, you need nimble fingers. If you have any injuries, it’s best to find another profession. |
Advantages and disadvantages of the profession
Working as a casino dealer is one of the most visible and responsible jobs in the gambling industry. It requires attentiveness, stress tolerance, and interpersonal skills. Like any profession, it has its pros and cons.
Benefits of being a dealer
- Stable income— In large casinos, dealers receive a fixed salary plus tips from players.
- Opportunity for career advancement- Experienced dealers can become senior dealers, floor managers, or even casino administrators.
- Development of communication skills— Constant communication with people helps improve communication skills and psychological resilience.
- Interesting atmosphereWorking in a casino involves excitement, dynamism, and intense emotions, making it unique and exciting.
- Flexible schedule— Many establishments offer shifts, which allows you to combine work with studies or other activities.
Disadvantages of being a dealer
- High emotional stress— I have to work with different clients, including conflictual and aggressive ones.
- Monotone— despite the exciting atmosphere, the work itself is often repetitive and requires constant supervision.
- Night shifts— Casinos operate around the clock, so dealers have to work at night and on holidays.
- Physical fatigue— standing for long periods of time and having to maintain concentration are tiring.
- Stressful situations— players can blame the dealer for a loss, which requires patience and the ability to remain neutral.
Thus, the profession of a dealer combinesfinancial stability and an interesting atmosphere, but requiresstress resistance, discipline and readiness for a non-standard schedule.
Fee and tips
A dealer’s salary directly depends on the status of the establishment where they work. In the US, the hourly rate is set, with specialists earning between $5 and $10. It’s possible to earn 2,000 and 3,000 rubles per month. In Russia, the salary is lower, around $450.
Croupiers also receive tips. The amount accumulated during the day is divided among the entire shift.
Career growth
There’s room for advancement in this profession. After a few years of successful performance, you can become a floor manager. This manager oversees the game, supervises customers and floor staff, and prevents mistakes and conflicts.
Profession and personal life
The ATM operates on a schedule that depends on the casino’s practices. Typically, a player can choose from 14 12-hour shifts or 21 8-hour shifts, allowing for a flexible schedule.
Gambling establishments open late, so the ATM is open at night and closed during the day. This makes meeting friends difficult. According to those in the industry, 80% of their social circle consists of colleagues.
Dealers work night shifts
Gambling addiction
Every croupier risks becoming a gambling addict. Working in the gambling industry makes it difficult to control your urge to gamble.
How to become a croupier
In the 1990s, when the gambling industry was just emerging in Russia, the profession of a banker was considered attractive. And also dangerous, since organized crime groups often played in the clubs.
Today, almost anyone can become a casino dealer. To do so, they must undergo specialized training. This profession is primarily pursued by young people between the ages of 18 and 30. It’s suitable for both those seeking additional income and those looking to advance their career.
Each casino has a school where you can learn this profession. Training lasts several months. People are screened during the process, and an exam is taken at the end. The training is conducted by a casino employee—a high-ranking inspector or pit boss.
Applicants undergo a rigorous selection process. Not only skills are important, but also appearance and personal qualities. VIP establishments offer jobs with at least five years of experience.
Applicants are asked to take a table test. They must demonstrate their skills at the gaming table. After passing the test, they are assigned a category and their salary is determined.
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