Having a stock poker face is an important weapon in your poker arsenal to prevent opponents from piecing together information to get an edge over you. This skill is not just limited to the game of poker. 

The benefits of having a good poker face apply to other table games and online casino games, as well as situations after leaving the card table. One study has found that a person's negotiating skills increase when they've perfected an unwavering expression. Negotiating is a valuable skill in the workplace or even in a family dynamic.

Research has also shown that a “positive” poker face can promote more effective outcomes in a stressful situation within a group setting, generate feelings of goodwill toward an individual and make that person more agreeable.

What Are the Risks and Limitations of a Poker Face?

There are some limitations to what a poker face can do for you. Unless you have obvious uncontrollable tells, your opponents won't be able to read your weaknesses or strengths just by looking at you. 

The danger of focusing too heavily on how you're perceived is that you overlook how your opponents appear. You could be so focused on your own demeanor that you miss an opponent's facial cues. 

Ultimately, success at poker requires a balanced poker strategy. While you need to focus on your appearance, you also need to be on the ball with everything else. This includes defending your blinds, pushing opponents to decisions from the button, calling light in early position and mastering your check-raises.

Practice Your Poker Face at BetMGM

If you think you have what it takes to pull off the perfect poker face, why not try it out with an online poker game like Texas Hold'em poker online? Register at BetMGM and play cash games or online poker tournaments. Invite friends and take advantage of the video call option so you're all on-screen while you play.