It’s easy to distinguish between a DJ “wanna-be” and a professional entertainer, at least it is for me. But I have 34 years’ experience in this business, and I realize the difference is not always obvious to someone seeking to hire entertainment for an event.
Everybody knows somebody who “is a DJ.” Every kid with an iPod thinks he is a DJ these days.
But you wouldn’t hire a person to prepare your tax return simply because he has a calculator.
The American DJ Association has published a list of Ten Questions to Ask Your DJ, to determine if you are dealing with someone who is striving to be more professional with their DJ business. All are good things to know, such as level of experience, professional equipment, and liability insurance. But these Ten Questions are minimum qualifications.*
There are minimum qualifications that everyone should have before claiming to be a “professional” anything, whether it’s a DJ, a plumber, or a doctor. The letters MD after your doctor’s name mean he is a trained professional, with a high level of education, experience, and licensing, just for starters. There are credentialing requirements for continuing education, testing, and insurance. Similar standards apply for attorneys, accountants, engineers, managers, and other professions.
Sadly, there are no such minimal standards for the title “DJ.” Anyone can just declare that they are a DJ. No training, no degree, no license, just claim the initials. Caveat emptor!
In fact, some of the ADJA Questions for DJs are almost silly, such as having to ask how a DJ will dress for your event. A true professional will own several tuxedos, suits and costumes, and carry a spare shirt in case of an unfortunate coffee spill. Experienced wedding DJs have a collection of ties, vests and cummerbunds to match bridal colors. But would you ask your doctor if he owns a lab coat?
Asking a DJ (or DJ wanna-be) “Do you have a wireless microphone” is a bit like asking a doctor if he owns a stethoscope.
Even the question about professional equipment falls short, as it is not clearly defined. Since every kid with an iPod thinks he’s a a DJ, the market is flooded with cheap “entry-level” DJ equipment. There are even “DJ In A Box” kits out there.
Such low-end gear is not reliable and cannot survive the rigors of professional mobile use, and top pros will not even risk it as backup gear. It is frequently seen in pawn shops and yard sales.
Would you want your doctor to use “Cat Scan In A Box” when your health is at stake? The milestone celebrations in your life such as weddings, birthdays, graduations, reunions, and retirement, deserve professional tools and talent.
Becoming a professional presumes that you have the right stuff – talent, training, and tools – to do your job. That is the bare minimum.
But being a professional means just one thing: in addition to talent, training, and tools, you have the experience, business acumen, and repeat customers to earn a living at your craft.
It’s what we do.
*So how do you know if a DJ is a professional? Easy – look at their past customers, references, and reviews and awards.