Blackjack is one of the most popular casino card games. It is played on a semicircular table that can accommodate up to seven players (or “spots”). The dealer stands behind the table and chip rack, with players seated in front of it.

The game’s objective is to beat the dealer. To do this, you must have a hand value closer to 21 than the dealer’s. If you have a hand of 21 or higher, you win 3:2 on your bet. You can also win by having an Ace and any other card that helps your hand.

If you have a lower hand than the dealer’s, you lose your bet. If both hands are equal, it’s a push and no money is exchanged. However, if you have a higher hand-total than the dealer’s, they will pay you one time your wager.

A high school diploma is a minimum requirement to become a blackjack dealer, but many dealers attend specialized schools to prepare for their careers. These institutions teach the rules of the game as well as how to interact with customers. They may also provide students with an internship to gain hands-on experience in a real casino environment.

When you’re a blackjack dealer, it’s important to be able to keep track of all the different bets placed by your customers. You must be able to explain each wager clearly and answer any questions that your guests may have. Additionally, you must be able to deliver nonverbal cues, such as nodding, to show that you are listening and understanding what your customer is saying.

Another essential skill for a blackjack dealer is active listening. This involves attentively listening to a customer and paraphrasing their thoughts. It is a critical part of customer service, and it allows you to address any issues that may arise during the game.

Having the ability to count cards is beneficial for blackjack dealers, as it can help them make more informed decisions about when to hit and stand. This can also increase their chances of winning against the players.

The best way to get into a career as a blackjack dealer is to enroll in a training program at a local casino. These programs typically last between eight and 12 weeks and will give you the skills you need to begin working as a dealer. Some casinos even have their own dealer schools, which are a great way to get started in the industry.

After all of the blackjack players have placed their insurance bets, the dealer will check her hole card with a peeker window. If she has a ten underneath, she will have a blackjack and will take everyone’s original bets. She will also pay out their insurance bets at 2:1. However, if the dealer has an ace showing and the player has a blackjack, they will be offered “even money.” This is because the dealer’s insurance wager is based on a negative expected value for the player.