table selection

i just can't see how you can be picky about table selection at a casino. the ones i've played at seat you at the next available spot, and you have to have a reason to move. it seems like luck of the draw. even seat selection at a particular table is difficult.
i know what to look for when deciding on a table, but just can't apply it. are the casinos i'm playing at much different from others?

[JustToast]

table change requires an interview? since when?

i've only had one successful table change, usually they give some excuse preventing me from doing it. i was forced to play short handed with no rake reduction once. i stupidly stayed but should have walked. instead of moving the 5 players to other tables, they let the game continue and wouldn't let me go to the 8 handed game.

[Benoit]

As I understand it, while you are on the waiting list, just scout around the poker room for a good looking game. Once you are given a seat, just immediately ask for a change to one of your choice picks.

If you're saying that they won't let you change tables, then that's weird. And if they were making you play at a table of 5 with no rake break, then that's BS, you probably should have just walked.

[BassMasterK]

You shouldn't need a reason for a table change. If you need one, make one up. At my local casino, you get the change when a seat opens up and the guy at the top of the list just takes your old seat so they don't care how much you change.

Regarding seat selection once you are assigned a table, you are right, you usually don't have many option unless you show up as the table is first being filled. But as you get a feel for the table you are at, when someone gets up to leave and you think they have a better seat than you, immediately tell the dealer you would like to take their seat. They should move you and the new guy to the table will take your old seat.