Tips:
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Disc Jockey Hiring
Tips
(Good Questions To Ask)
- Are you insured? Can
you supply me with your proof of liability?
Responsible business owners carry liability
insurance to protect their businesses and
their clients. Many locations are beginning
to require proof of liability. Ask for proof
of liability insurance. Disc Jockey's receive
a Certificate of Liability which can be used
as proof.
- Do you
work with written contracts?
It is extremely important to have your
booking confirmed in writing. Ask for a written
agreement, especially if you are paying
an initial retainer. The standard initial
payment (deposit) for disc jockey (DJ) entertainment
services is 25%. If you are expecting a specific
entertainer, make sure you get it in
writing as well.
-
Do
you use Professional Equipment?
Ask whether your prospective disc jockey (DJ)
works with professional audio equipment. If
you need to, ask for their equipment list and
check with a local music dealer to verify they
are using professional-grade sound gear. Remember
that professional gear does not guarantee an
entertainer's talent or service level, but
is simply a tool for building an exceptional
event.
-
Are you a full time entertainer / Disc Jockey?
If you get "Yes" for an answer, ask whether they
have another job. Ask whether
the "other" job
is a full time responsibility.
Typically a full time disc
jockey (DJ) company will normally invest 20
to 30 hours to your special
event but it may appear that you are
only paying for "5 hours".
Consultations, music purchasing & editing,
preparation, set-up and tear-down,
education and other business
related endeavors add up to
the overall success of your
special occasion. If your potential
disc jockey (DJ) has two full time
responsibilities, it may be
difficult for that person to
properly prepare for your event.
However, some professional DJs are more
organized than others.
- Will
you have backup equipment
at my event?
Although equipment failure is rare,
do you really want your special occasion
ruined because your disc jockey (DJ) did
not come prepared? Make sure your DJ
has backup equipment, and that it is present at your
event, not back in the office. It is also important
to know if your Disc Jockey has a back-up plan in
case of illness or an accident.
- Does
the disc jockey (DJ) know the proper etiquette for your
type of event?
A professional DJ will listen to
you and assist you with the planning of your
special day. Most professional DJ entertainers will
coordinate, emcee and provide the music that
you desire. Ask if they have experience with
your type of event.
-
How much time do you allow for set-up?
Punctuality is a necessity. Your disc jockey (DJ)
should arrive at least one hour prior to the
start time you've given them. Your DJ entertainer
should ideally be setup and in place before
your first guest walks through the door. This
could be a difficult question to receive an
honest answer, since anyone can simply say they
will be punctual. You may want to ask for references
so that you will have an opportunity to ask an
unbiased party.
-
Will you be willing to play requests and
discuss music as well as the day's agenda ahead of
time?
A versatile disc
jockey (DJ) will listen
to your suggestions, give
you feedback and
play from your desired song
list. A professional
DJ will
also accept the fact that
you may not want
certain songs played. A professional
DJ understands
that he/she can not
know everything about your
musical preferences
and entertainment needs without
communication.
- Will
you be dressed appropriately
for our occasion?
Specify the type of
attire that your disc jockey (DJ) is expected
to wear for your occasion. If you are having
a "themed" event,
make sure your DJ entertainer is informed.
-
Do
you belong to a professional
organization or trade
group?
Belonging to an
organization or trade
group does not necessarily
guarantee the talent
or professionalism
of your disc jockey (DJ),
but it may indicate
the company's willingness
to network, learn and
grow. DJs
can learn through national
DJ conventions and
seminars geared toward the DJ entertainment professional.
Additional DJ Hiring Tips
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