10 Most Important Questions
To Ask A "DJ" Before You Hire Them
Questions typically asked of a "Wedding DJ" although these questions apply to most other events as well.
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1) Do you ever "over-book" your performances or hire "sub-contractors?"
Will the DJ (or DJ company) sub-contract work out to other companies, DJs or independent contractors?
If so, will they guarantee it and put it in their contract?
Many Disc Jockey services who claim to be large nationwide companies are no more than "brokers" who will take your money and then "sub-contract" the DJ work to whomever they can find to do your event at a reduced rate (so that they can retain a profit). When this happens you may not know who the DJ is that will perform at your event or their experience, equipment, affiliations, music selections, etc. But even more important is that you will quite probably get a DJ who does not pre-plan with you and personalize your service to the degree that you desire.
Do they have another job they are employed at?
Can they meet with you at your convenience even if it is during the day?
Do they have the time to return your telephone calls promptly to address your concerns?
This is a very common problem within the industry. There are many DJs out there but many are only doing DJ work as a way to "supplement" their income. What this means to you is that a "part-timer" does not have the time to commit to your event as they are usually involved in their primary occupation. (Other problems involve sub-standard equipment that is not maintained, updated or operated properly, lack of experience, uninsured, etc.) One good indication of this is their pricing; If a DJ service's prices are remarkably low it is usually because they are employed elsewhere (of course, this means they cannot devote necessary amounts of time to your event) or they are actively involved in "sub-contracting" their work to others (Also see: Why Do Professional DJs Charge The Amounts They Ask). Also, if they DO NOT DJ for businesses, municipalities (cities, counties, etc.) or corporate events it is a good indication that they do not have professional equipment and that their services are not up to par with true professionals within the industry.
Are they willing to meet at your home or event location?
Will they take time to meet with you on multiple occasions if needed?
Will they help you plan in advance so that your event is structured exactly as you want it (unique and personalized)?
Make sure that a DJ is willing to meet with you "face-to-face" so that you have the opportunity to see their appearance, personality and demeanor. If a company only allows you to hire them or sign a contract through the mail it is usually an indication that the companies are "sub-contracting" and overbooking their events.
Do they have a checklist to ensure that your reception will run smoothly?
Is their paperwork and documentation organized and structured to encourage a successful, flowing event?
Are they willing to work with other vendors & family members and keep them informed?
Will they get your permission before they make changes and are they willing to NOT surprise you with impromptu activities or announcements?
Most DJs will tell you that they will coordinate the events at your reception. To verify if they actually do this or how it is performed ask to see their documentation and checklists to be assured that things will run smoothly and flawlessly. If they do not have checklists and structured documentation they ARE NOT prepared to coordinate your event. If they have not gone over pronunciations of names with you they ARE NOT prepared. If the music selections are not planned, categorized and documented in advance they ARE NOT prepared. Also, the last thing you need during your important day is for a stranger with a microphone to do an "impromptu comedy routine" or any activity that you knew nothing about in advance.
Do they have creative ideas for customizing and personalizing my event?
Will they keep my guests attention where it belongs - on me (and the bridal party)?
Will they incorporate my ideas with the personality and style that I desire?
Unfortunately, many people think that DJs are a "dime a dozen." However, based upon the way most disc jockeys promote themselves, perform and conduct their business, this misconception is understandable. If you want your event to be unique and memorable then you should find a DJ who is unique and memorable as well. Each DJ will have their our personality, skills and ideas. In other words; take the time to find the DJ who will be the best choice for your concerns, needs and guests.
Are they a member of the A.D.J.A. (American Disc Jockey Association)?
Are they a member of the N.A.M.E. (National Association of Mobile Entertainers)?
How many meetings have they attended in the past year?
Can they certify their membership with a certificate or a web listing?
Are they insured?
The Mobile Disc Jockey industry is completely unregulated and the talent required to be a Mobile Disc Jockey is currently impossible to "certify" by any organization. However, the benefit of finding a Disc Jockey who is involved in a local or national association is that they are committed to improving their overall service through the constant education that is provided by these associations. Any Disc Jockey who is not committed to improving will eventually grow stale.
Do they charge extra for equipment such as wireless microphones, lapel microphones, additional sound systems, ceremony music, custom music editing, lighting, etc.?
Are there additional charges for travel (mileage), planning meetings, set-up or tear-down times?
Will they charge for music selections not in their current music collection?
Will you be charged for unexpected delays that occur at your event?
It is common for many companies to have hidden or additional charges to what they initially quote. Be aware of all that is included and NOT included in the price you are quoted.
What is their background in the music and entertainment industry?
What are they currently doing to improve their entertainment skills?
Is their background limited to only "mobile disc jockey" work?
In order to provide the best quality entertainment possible, each Disc Jockey should be actively seeking to improve and broaden their entertainment capabilities. Most Disc Jockeys aren't fulfilling this important detail because they fall into the categories described by Questions #1 and #2, and therefore, don't really care about improving their services. People tend to become what they are committed to becoming. The same is true for Disc Jockeys.
Do they have any public speaking experience outside of mobile disc jockey work?
Do they have any speech or vocal training?
Are their announcements direct and to the point?
Do you feel that their intellect and vocabulary are at a level to be able to relate, direct and converse with your guests?
If you've ever seen someone try to get a crowd's attention without the proper vocal skills, then we need not say more. Or when they do open their mouths, they don't know what to say. Words like "uh" and "um," or phrases like, "you know" get used too much and eventually your guests are left asking each other, "What did he just say?" The person you choose as your Disc Jockey will be your spokesperson and will be representing you to your guests. Choose wisely.
It is very unlikely that a professional DJ will do anything that would warrant a claim on their insurance policy. However, if a problem does occur, coverage is the only way to assure a large amount of funds if a DJ were liable for damages. In fact, some venues will NOT allow an unlicensed DJ on their premises.
The rule of thumb for any vendor you hire is that you are paying a professional to "roll-with-the-punches" dealing with the many things that can (and will) change, delay or go wrong with your day. It is their job to be able to handle these obstacles so that your guests never knew they occurred.
Make sure your DJ is qualified, prepared and experienced to deliver the performance that you expect.
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© 2009 DJB Field Services, Inc. and A Perfect DJ. Some information and statistics have been compiled from associates, associate websites and from organizations within the mobile DJ and entertainment industry.