Casino Dealer Training

The croupier works mostly in a casino, sometimes in a private gaming circle. His role is to run and referee a gaming table, whether it is a card game such as poker, blackjack, or baccarat or a cash game such as English roulette. He must ensure that each player respects the rules of the game in progress as well as the rules of the casino or the structure in which he works. A table manager and a game manager are also present to guarantee the sincerity of the game: the video can be called upon, for example, if a player is suspected of cheating.

The dealer's tasks

The dealer’s main tasks are opening and closing the tables, explaining the rules to new players, dealing with the cards (or dice and chips), and calculating and announcing their winnings and all of this while animating and monitoring the game at all times in order to avoid any cheating or other incidents that could disrupt the game. It is, therefore, a profession that requires constant attention! His or her responsibilities are all the more important as players can bet large sums of money, and an error of judgement can provoke strong reactions from customers. He is given breaks between games so that he can take a break from the high level of attention that the job requires. Of course, mistakes are human, and the croupier may be assisted by the table manager or the game manager if he makes a mistake in the distribution of cards or in the giving of change.

The essential skills to become a croupier

Being a croupier requires a set of skills that will allow you to run and referee a game successfully. First of all, if you’re an early riser, being a croupier can be a bit of a hassle, as it’s a job where night shifts are common. Weekend work may also be more or less frequent. A good physical condition is recommended in order to get used to this rhythm of life, especially as dealers spend most of their working time in a standing position. Of course, you must be passionate about the game and know every rule inside out in order to ensure that a game runs smoothly!

In terms of know-how, a croupier must be able to perform mental calculations quickly and therefore be sufficiently at ease with numbers to avoid moments of uncertainty. His sense of observation and memory of the game will enable him to have a permanent overview of the game in progress and spot cheating attempts. As the game’s animator, the dealer must make the game come alive. The difficulty is to find the right balance between, on the one hand, players who should not be bored, and on the other hand, players who are often concentrated and sometimes stressed (especially if they have bet large sums!). A croupier must therefore be courteous, discreet, but also dynamic. As a representative of the casino, a good presentation is obviously a must.

Finally, the job may be international, as casinos are mainly located in tourist areas such as seaside resorts.

Become a croupier: education and training

First of all, it is important to know that the profession of the croupier is fully regulated. You must have reached the age of majority, and an applicant for the croupier position must prove that he has no criminal record and is registered on the electoral roll. Only a ministerial approval from the Ministry of the Interior will allow you to start a career as a croupier in a casino.

If you are interested in running a table and giving rhythm to the games of the customers of a casino, you can try to join an internal training by applying directly to a casino. Many casinos offer training for croupiers to candidates with little or no experience. But of the most recognized in the industry, the Saskatchewan Casino Dealer School allows candidates to train for the various casino jobs, among which is the croupier. This training in the entertainment industry allows the trainee to obtain a diploma recognized by all casinos in Canada as well as abroad.