How to Fit in at the Poker Table
The poker table can be an intimidating place. Everyone is more than likely to have-their poker-faces on and everyone is there to win. If your new to the game or new to the group of players, you can easily feel like you don't belong and there is sometimes some building that takes place. Here are 3 ways that you can break the ice, get everyone to warm to you and maybe even lower peoples guard
Tip the dealer. This is very important. Its almost an unwritten rule that whenever you win a hand you tip the dealer a little bit. It doesn't have to be a lot, just a couple of small chips but doing it will give you instant credibility. It will show that not only do you know what you are doing but also that you have the confidence to give some of your chips away, however small. You will also come across as polite and trust me you'll end up getting more chips back in the long run.
Make jokes. Being straight faced and humourless the whole time does not work. It tends to alienate you and will not help you make friends. This is result in people not wanting to give you a break and can even lead to people ganging up on you to get you off the table. Trying joining in with a bit of the banter that often takes place on the poker table and make an effort to smile a lot. This will naturally make you relax a little and also again show confidence. Additionally always compliment people when they make a good move.
Pay attention. A poker table can move very quickly and it can sometimes be frustrating for more experienced players to have to wait for the newbie. If you are polite and apologetic they will likely take you under their wing and will teach you the 'pattern' of the play. If however you're not paying attention or ignore their advice they will get annoyed and may even ask for you to be removed from the table
Don't be a bad loser. There is nothing worse than throwing your toys out of the pram when you lose a hand, whether you feel like it is deserved or not. No one really good when they lose but experienced players can take the losses with the wins and usually congratulate the victor. You should do the same as it will portray the idea that are a good sport and you are more likely to get the same response when you win.
Tip the dealer. This is very important. Its almost an unwritten rule that whenever you win a hand you tip the dealer a little bit. It doesn't have to be a lot, just a couple of small chips but doing it will give you instant credibility. It will show that not only do you know what you are doing but also that you have the confidence to give some of your chips away, however small. You will also come across as polite and trust me you'll end up getting more chips back in the long run.
Make jokes. Being straight faced and humourless the whole time does not work. It tends to alienate you and will not help you make friends. This is result in people not wanting to give you a break and can even lead to people ganging up on you to get you off the table. Trying joining in with a bit of the banter that often takes place on the poker table and make an effort to smile a lot. This will naturally make you relax a little and also again show confidence. Additionally always compliment people when they make a good move.
Pay attention. A poker table can move very quickly and it can sometimes be frustrating for more experienced players to have to wait for the newbie. If you are polite and apologetic they will likely take you under their wing and will teach you the 'pattern' of the play. If however you're not paying attention or ignore their advice they will get annoyed and may even ask for you to be removed from the table
Don't be a bad loser. There is nothing worse than throwing your toys out of the pram when you lose a hand, whether you feel like it is deserved or not. No one really good when they lose but experienced players can take the losses with the wins and usually congratulate the victor. You should do the same as it will portray the idea that are a good sport and you are more likely to get the same response when you win.
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