Are you thinking about pursuing a career as a DJ? Getting started in the world of DJing can be exciting yet overwhelming. In this article, you will find valuable insights and tips on how to embark on your journey as a DJ. Whether you aim to spin at parties, clubs, or events, these essential steps will set you on the right path towards becoming a skilled and successful DJ.

Step 1: Create a Budget

It is no secret that starting your career as a DJ starts with acquiring equipment. When creating your budget for DJ equipment it is important to refer to your current financial status. These are expenses one must consider when developing their budget.

How much do I pay in bills/payments? (food, car, insurance, rent etc.)

How much leftover money do you have after living expenses?

With your leftover money how much do you want to save?

Are you willing to purchase second hand equipment?

Step 2: Research

It is important that you understand basic techniques of a DJ as well as study the equipment you will be using for your performance. Utilizing sources online such as Youtube can provide you excellent audio and visual guides to aid you in the basic operation and performance of a DJ.

Step 3: Shadow Competent DJs

While studying is important for learning any topic/job, however actual practical experience is essential for any beginner DJ. Practical experience in a live venue can help a beginner DJ experience what is like to perform for a crowd. When shadowing an experienced DJ here are some questions you should ask to make the best use of your time.

How do I know what music to bring for a specific venue?

How much time do you need to prepare for a performance?

How can I as a DJ set up the mood for the venue I am at?

How can I as a DJ read the room?

How do I differentiate between legitimate and illegitimate venues for my own safety?

Step 4: Network

There are two ways you can network as a DJ. You can work as an independent DJ and cut off any middle man that may take away a percentage of income or you can work for an event services company such as Upscale Occasions that will handle the procurement of venues for at a cost.

Being an independent DJ will be extremely difficult in the beginning because you are competing with every other DJ that is looking for a venue to host. As an independent DJ your position is never secured and you must constantly find ways to separate yourself from the rest of the competition. It will be difficult to maintain a stable network as an independent DJ unless you start producing your own music.

On the other hand, a DJ working for an event services company can utilize the company employing them to network not only with the clients the company pulls in but also with other companies in the service industry that can help you establish your name as a reliable DJ to utilize for high value events. My recommendation to any upcoming DJ is to work for a company first so that they can hone their skills as an artist and slowly develop connections with potential clients and venues that would like to continue business with you. Once you possess the vital network and skillsets of a DJ, you can then start realistically looking at being an independent DJ.

Step 5: Remember why you wanted to be a DJ

What makes a DJ in any venue great is that just like the guests they are also having fun with their own performance. A positive attitude can be quite contagious in a crowd and with the right beat your joy can multiply into a crowded room full of joy. So if you are serious about becoming a DJ get out there and have fun!