Q.
I am looking for some information on what to ask disc jockeys when you are
interviewing them. any help would be greatly appreciated.
A. The following are a few suggestions and informative
questions you should ask any DJ company before you make your final decision.
Questions courtesy of the
American Disc Jockey
Association.
Does your Disc Jockey use professional equipment?
There is a difference between the audio equipment you have at
home and the equipment a professional Disc Jockey uses. Professional audio
equipment is built to go on the road day in and day out. Make sure your
prospective choice uses only professional equipment to insure the musical
selections are audible for all your guests' enjoyment.
Is your Disc Jockey insured?
A Disc Jockey company that has taken the time to insure their
respective companies demonstrates that it is run by serious business men and
women.
Can your Disc Jockey provide a written contract and
references from previous clients?
It is extremely important to have your booking confirmed in
writing. All terms of the agreement should be in writing to avoid any
complications at a later date.
References are an important part of any business and your
Disc Jockey should be able to provide you with names and addresses of satisfied
clients.
Will your Disc Jockey be suitably dressed for the occasion?
It is important that your Disc Jockey looks the part by
dressing in formal or semi-formal attire (your choice). Be sure to
specify the type of apparel that your Disc Jockey should use. There should be no
added fee charged for formal attire.
Does your Disc Jockey know the
proper procedure and etiquette for your type of party?
A professional Disc Jockey will become involved with the
planning of your special day and will be prepared to handle all announcements
and special events on the day of your party.
Is your Disc Jockey willing to discuss musical selections
ahead of time, and is he or she willing to play requests, particularly if they
are suitable for dancing?
A professional Disc Jockey is aware that they cannot possibly
know everything there is to know about your musical preferences and
entertainment needs. They should be willing to listen to your ideas and
suggestions. They should make themselves available prior to your party to
discuss selections. They should be earnest in accepting the songs you have
chosen to be played as well as those you have chosen not to be played. Special
requests should never be a problem and your Disc Jockey should be willing to
play them where they are appropriate.
Will your Disc Jockey arrive on time?
Punctuality is an ultimate necessity, and as professional
business men and women they should be aware of their responsibilities to their
clients. Normal time spent setting up and removing equipment is not a part of
the hourly entertainment fee.
Can your Disc Jockey provide back up equipment and/or
personnel in case of an emergency?
Even professional equipment can fail on occasion, so it is
important to know whether your Disc Jockey has spare equipment and personnel
available to them (some local ADJA chapters set up emergency networks for
this purpose). Any number of circumstances may arise between the time you
book your Disc Jockey and the date of the event. It is important to know if the
Disc Jockey has a back up plan in case of illness or accident.
