Playing the Game Properly: Etiquette
When involved with playing Blackjack, there are a lot of game rules, signals and strategies involved with gameplay. While all of these are important factors of the game, there is another important aspect of gameplay: Etiquette. Having proper manners at the table will make for a much more of an enjoyable playing experience for yourself and everyone around you.
We will start with the beginner player (as in the one who has just walked up to the table for the first time, and wants to begin to play.) New players should start with a blackjack table that has the least amount of players possible.
This way the dealer can help you more in explaining the rules and such. If you want to watch a game beforehand, stay a reasonable distance back so that you don’t distract the game in progress.
While having other players around to ask advice and questions is reasonable, at the same time, you don’t want to hold up a game. Seasoned players hate that. So if you feel you will have to ask a lot of questions, try and keep the game between you and the dealer, if possible. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, but don’t ask so many that you become a nuisance, either. At least know something about the game before stepping up to play (read all the articles we have on Blackjack.)
When playing, don’t start carrying on detailed conversations with everyone around you about how your day was, how long the flight took, what you had for dinner… This is a card game, not a book club. Also, don’t tell people how to play, what they are doing wrong, or anything like that. Even if you are a great player, it doesn’t mean that they want to hear it. Yes, answer questions if someone asks, but don’t offer advice.
If you decide to drink at the table, control yourself. Don’t splash drinks, order a drink during your turn, or get drunk and obnoxious. You don’t want to be “that guy” (or “that girl”.)
Treat the dealer with respect. If you make a play, both tell him and make the appropriate hand signal to avoid confusion. If you want to tip the dealer, do so. They won’t turn it down, and for fun, try placing a bet on their behalf. They may walk away with an even bigger tip, which will make them happy.
As you can see, a lot of Blackjack etiquette is just simple common sense tactics where you act like a good person (as opposed to being an obnoxious jerk.) And if you are not sure what to do at the table, there is no harm in asking.
Good luck!
