If you love poker, then becoming a dealer might seem like the perfect career for you. But before you take the plunge and sign up for training, there are some things you should consider. For one, does your personality and disposition fit the work? Dealerships often depend on making players feel comfortable, whether they’re winning or losing. And that requires a great deal of customer service skills.

The first step to becoming a poker dealer is to research casinos and card rooms in your area that are hiring. You can find these openings online or in local newspapers. Once you have found a casino or card room that is looking for new dealers, apply for a position and attend their in-house dealer training program. This will provide you with the skills necessary to deal professionally and efficiently according to industry standards.

While you are undergoing your dealer training program, you may want to start dealing at home games with friends to gain some experience. This will help prepare you for the job once you graduate from your training program and pass your audition at a live game. This audition is usually done while the casino supervisor watches you deal and assesses your abilities.

In addition to having excellent dealing skills, you’ll also need to be able to read hands and determine their rank. You’ll need mental arithmetic to keep track of the pot and bets as the game goes on, and you’ll need patience as well — especially with cautious or new players. You’ll be on your feet for long periods of time and will be working in a moderately noisy and smoky environment, so you need to be physically able to handle the workload.

Becoming a professional poker dealer is a worthwhile goal for those who have the right personality and physical attributes. But it’s important to remember that it isn’t a lucrative career for everyone. Many dealers only make minimum wage plus tips, and the hours can be long and irregular. If you’re a full-time college student, then it might be difficult to balance both careers.

Ultimately, the most important thing to remember when trying to become a professional poker dealer is that it takes hard work and dedication. But if you persevere, then you can make your dream a reality. Just be sure to take some time to think about how you’ll manage the financial aspects of your career, as there are a few different ways to go about it. And always be sure to check out your local gambling laws before you start taking on clients! Good luck!