It is not uncommon to see professionals regularly playing medium stakes adopt the sulky bully persona. With the somber shades-and-cap, unsmiling, untalkative Tulkinghorn image you are not only likely to attract other and better skilled shadow-warriors, but, looking like a scarecrow, you are likely also to scare away those players who would otherwise constitute the bulk of your overall income.

For the amateur will, for the most part, prefer a table where he thinks he can have a good time, whether he wins or looses. For him the game is not a way of making a living, but quality time. The sociable, successful businessman happy to get out of the office or to have a bit of fun before the foreign meeting, the brilliant computer scientist who likes once in a while to play a real game as opposed to online poker: these people, cruising around the room, are looking for a table where players are relaxed and friendly. They will listen for laughter and scan smiles before they at all try to observe the players’ actual poker skills, and will finally go for those tables where people seem to enjoy themselves.

To the players who want to constantly earn an actual income at the table, these guys are a godsend. An individual player will probably not lose a lot, but will do so consistently. If the pro wants some dough he has come to the right place. These good ol’ boys seeking fun will stay longer, place riskier bets and lose more when they are having fun.

The intimidating table full of folks that don’t talk to each other, don’t look at each other and have created a somber atmosphere will keep the amateur far, far away.

On the other hand, a good conversation and a sense of humor combined with a slightly flattering play which keeps the amateur trusting he has a chance will increase the chances of that player coming back for more next time, perhaps even specifically seeking out your table. Since they do not play for the money or the excitement of high stakes, they will not regret as much having lost to an entertaining player.

The professional will keep these weaker players in a good mood and enjoying themselves while he fleeces them for as much as he can. He will make them believe that luck is on their side and, of course, it will be occasionally, such is the nature of luck. The pro will never emit signs of disgust or indifference. He will not be arrogant or intimidating. He also wants everyone to have a good time at his game.

True poker professionals have not just honed their poker skills and technique, they have also created an public persona and the ability to use this persona to strategically manipulate the game. They create an attractive, relaxed, trusting environment for the unsuspecting good time boys. The suckers will happily lose a little and be thankful to you for entertaining them so well.

The author is a successful limit cash game player. He plays poker online and receives Rakeback at PKR Poker and Rakeback at Virgin Poker.