Many players ask us about hosts, oftentimes how to know if they qualify for one. This reader had the lucky opportunity to have a host approach them:
I was playing at a casino recently when I was approached by a host. Anyway he asked me if there was anything he could get for me or if I needed anything. My question is what was I supposed to say? I have never experienced this before.
Michelle D.
If you’ve been approached, you’re playing at a high enough level to get noticed when a host is evaluating who’s in the casino and may be worth a visit.
Hosts build a group of players that they support based on the casino’s business goals, encourage those players to visit, and take care of them where they can based on their play. If a host approaches you, here’s a few things you can do.
Ask Them What They’re Able to Assist With
If you’re new to hosts, you’re not alone – at some point we all are. So if they ask if you needed anything, one thing you can simply ask is what sorts of things they can help with – a fair question!
Some things hosts can help with can include:
- Scheduling visits, including getting your preferred room types when available
- Booking reservations for shows or restaurants, even those fully booked, as hosts often have access to seats kept aside for their players
- Comping things that wouldn’t otherwise be comped, such as room charges from restaurants
- Depending on your play, sometimes being able to offer extra benefits above/beyond what your offers extend by default
Where to Find the Host Office/Learn Their Hours
Like most working at the casino, hosts have an office, and they have their on-duty schedule. Knowing when they’re on site and most able to assist can help ensure you reach out at times they’re more likely to be able to help you.
In most cases if your host is off duty, there will likely be one on duty at the host office to assist on behalf of their colleagues for anything more urgent.
Knowing where the host office is can be helpful – many times they’re not in an obvious location by design, so asking where they can be found if needed (or reached – most make it easy to check in via email or text as well) can ensure if you do have something you need, you can get it.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Things You Want
If nothing comes to mind right away, that’s OK – now that they’ve reached out, you know how to find them or reach them when something does come to mind. With hosts, many players simply don’t ask, but you shouldn’t be afraid to ask.
The worst that can happen is they say no. But we’ve seen plenty of times where players check in with their host before leaving the property and get a suggestion of something like, “you should go pick up something nice in the gift shop” or “be sure to grab breakfast before you go,” a sign you’ve got an opportunity to pick up a bit more comps.
Takeaway
Hosts can be a helpful tool to getting what you hope to out of a casino trip. If you’re approached by one, the hardest part has already been achieved – you’re on their radar! They can help you understand how to best leverage them for what you need.
To learn more about casino hosts, check out our recent interview with one!
Have a question? Submit yours here!
