The Importance of Table Image

Just because online poker allows for a large measure of anonymity, does not mean that you should use this as an excuse to be rude and exhibit poor sportsmanship. Acting in ways that are untoward can certainly backfire. Not only might this result in you being kicked out of poker room, but your experience will also likely suffer. People don’t like to play with jerks. Yelling at the other players (talking in all caps), making derogatory comments, being insulting and a poor sport may scare weaker players, along with their money, away. You can also expect to be treated in the same manner that you treat others. Therefore, follow the old adage, “treat others as you would want to be treated,” and you will be able to avoid a lot of unnecessary problems.

Your table image can have a big impact on your playing experience. If you do your best to treat others with respect and are friendly, the other players will tend to like you or at least treat you with respect. As a result, they will treat you kinder. There will be less rude banter and a friendlier vibe at the table. On the other hand, if you are throwing out barbs and putting others down, be prepared to get as good as you give.

Being a good sport and developing a good table image can also help line your pockets. Novice players and/or fish will feel more comfortable playing at tables where the players are nicer. If they feel comfortable they may stay, which gives you a chance to win more money. Conversely, if your bad behavior scares them off and the only people willing to play with you are hardened, veteran players, you may have a tougher time.

Many players are prone to tilt. This simply means that they play off of negative emotion. They may get frustrated or angry and instead of sitting a few games out, continue to play, often making mistakes. Many times, these individuals will let it be known exactly how they feel. While this is understandable, it isn’t smart. Not only might it cloud other’s view of them, but it is easy to make bad decisions when playing out of frustration and aggravation.

New players and those who aren’t very good are typically the players most prone to tilt. Even when they aren’t either of the above, they are likely not in a good enough mind-set to be participating in games. Experienced players understand this and may try to take advantage of these people. They may bait them, assuming they will respond with aggression and then use this against them. Keeping control over ones emotions, or at least not expressing them, can help them avoid unnecessary losses.

Creating a good table image involves more then not expressing negative emotions. It also includes not insulting other players. Talking down to players that make bad decisions or who are slow is a bad move. Not only is this rude but other players at the table, will undoubtedly take notice of it and some may be looking to give you some of your own medicine when they have the chance. The people you insult (and those insulted by your behavior) will also be looking to stick it to you when they can. You will always get your opponents’ best efforts, because you have developed a bad image. If your bad behavior catches the attention of a veteran, highly skilled player, they may seek to teach you a lesson as well, a very expensive one.

Table image is incredibly important in online poker. Exhibiting poor sportsmanship by being rude, putting down others and bragging, provides no benefit. Your competitors will likely respond in kind and try their best to humiliate you at the tables. Being a good sport really isn’t that difficult. Be polite, compliment other players once in a while and avoid showcasing your frustration. You’re playing online. Therefore, if you get mad, scream or punch a pillow. You don’t have to type out your feelings or attack others. It will just cause them to view you negatively, which may end up costing you money and even wins, in the long run. Instead, be the friendly and fun guy (or gal) that people enjoy playing with. This will be much more to your benefit.