Hiring and Working With a DJ

This evening another event planner and I were invited to speak to a recently formed association of local DJs who are trying to improve the image of their industry. There is a trend with the current economy to not hire a DJ. In some cases it is a cost issue. In others, it is because of a bad past experience with a DJ. The group wanted to know what clients look for when interviewing and hiring a DJ. The following thoughts came out of the discussion.

Clients want to know that their DJ and other professionals working at their event will provide the best possible experience; they want to know that the DJ is there to serve them and help make them and their event successful.

Clients want to meet their DJ in advance; they don’t like having a stranger show up at their event. They want someone they know and with whom they can share any special issues related to their family or another situation. They don’t want to be blindsided by insensitive, and possibly embarrassing, actions, even if it’s unintentional. This is particularly important when dealing with divorced families and cultural and religious issues.

The DJ should arrive on time and be set up before the event begins. He/she should be dressed appropriately, both for the formality of the event and the event location. He/she should have all the equipment they need, including microphones and lapel mic, if needed. If a table is used for equipment, bring a tablecloth.

Equipment should be up-to-date and in good repair. Employees should be adequately trained in its use.

Music should not contain questionable lyrics or in any way be offensive to guests of any age. The DJ should find out in advance what the client considers acceptable and what they don’t want played, then don’t accept requests for anything not pre-approved by the client. That might include such things as not playing participation dances like the chicken dance or the macarana.

Don’t try to be the center of attention; that is the responsibility of the bride and groom or the hosts of the event, not the DJ. Don’t talk too much; you are not a radio personality.

Be a team player with the event coordinator, photographer, facility manager and any other person working the event. Don’t make changes to a written agenda provided by the clients or event planner without permission. You don’t know what situations or family dynamics may be involved and who you may offend. Be sure you read any written information given to you.

Don’t try to force the clients into your mold; if they don’t like to dance or it is not appropriate in their religion or culture, be sensitive. If they have other issues, respect them.

Don’t drink on the job. You are there to work, not socialize, and the clients expect you to be at your best.

Don’t engage in group participation activities or games without prior approval from the hosts. They are not appropriate for every group.

Don’t nickel and dime the client. Upcharging for every item doesn't go over well. Instead, if you must charge for something, include it in your fee; don't bill it separately. If something happens and you need to play for an extra 10 or 15 minutes (the limo doesn't arrive on time, etc.), don't make a production about it in front of the client. You can always call them later to discuss additional payment or you can go the extra mile and play an additional 10 minutes at no charge.

In these economic times, only the best will remain profitable, so do your best to provide excellent, and sensitive, customer service.