There is always a way you can learn about the industry you are in. If stop learning you stop growing and when you go out of business. There are numerous how-to’s on YouTube. So before you spend a dime on a DJ Course check out what’s available there first.
Controller
This is the single most important tool you have next to yourself. You must know your controller inside and out. This will be the biggest decision you will most likely make in the beginning. Do not fall into the thought process trap where new is better than old, bigger is better than small, and more channels are better than less.
Most manufacturers offer some basic How-Tos about their equipment. Watch every video you can.
Watch how others use their controller to help them really get the audience on the dance floor and keep them out there.
I have seen DJs with outstanding systems totally bomb, and DJs with beginner rigs rock the house.
Set-up
I know this may sound a little strange, but you need to practice set-up and breaking down your Mobile DJ system. Often times you will find yourself with a limited amount of time to set up or break down your GIG due to time limits or venue scheduling.
My friend and I went to Orlando, FL to do a conference at the Peabody hotel. After a couple of days of driving a 26-foot truck full of gear, we were in no mood for delays. We had packed the truck on the floor of the warehouse first before we ever loaded it into the truck its’ self. We discussed what needs to be last in and first out at the venue. We discussed what had to be set up first in the venue to allow for the most efficient setup.
Just as we expected there was a delay because the venue booked in front of us with a very complex show and they were behind in getting the room packed up.
This is why you need to practice setting up and taking down your system.
If you rent gear for your event don’t assume that it will be easy to set up with unfamiliar gear in an unfamiliar venue. Just like with your new gear, you must make sure you have practice with your new gear before you do your GIG. I recently purchased a new controller and it took a few minutes once set up to locate all the new volume knobs and faders. Each channel may have a volume fader, gain control, sub-group volume, master volume, sub-feed volume main out, and control room feed.
The last tip I will leave you with is to practice setting up your system in different space constraints. Most venues will have adequate space for you to work however there is always a chance that you will end up ticked to a corner or against a wall in a tight space, so be ready.
GIG Flow
Here is where the rubber meets the road.
You should create an outline that you follow during your GIG. Create a checklist of all the equipment that need to take with you on every GIG. Know what is the best way to set up your equipment and in what order.
No matter how good you think your memory is there will be something that you need at the last minute that you forgot unless you use a checklist and flow chart.
You may want to second another DJ for free to learn how they go about setting up their business.
I have included a checklist for you to get started with your GIG flow journey. Please download and use it with my blessing. Any short that will help help you become a better DJ you should take advantage of it.
I have also included a floor layout so you can see where your equipment will be placed in the venue setting. This will help with locating power outlets, exits, bathrooms, and other vendor placements within the venue.
Make a copy and bring it with you to your GIG having it on a clipboard and next to you will help elevate any concerns you may have. It will also be of help to others.
Business of Being a Mobile DJ
You are a Mobile Dj, an Entertainer, and an Artist. But most of all you are a business owner. You work hard to get your skills to a professional level mixing and knowing what songs to play, and just like your djing skills, you have to bring your business owner-operator skills to the same level. This is where a lot of us fall down. Not build a business and if don’t want to learn the skills you better hire someone that does.
Some of the professionals you should consider;
Bookkeeper or an accountant. Use this person to set up your books and to keep track of billing and billing issues. The sooner you get in the flow of recording your cots, expenses, and income the easy it will be to review what you need to do to grow your business. Remember there are only three ways to make money in your business. 1, Get more customers. 2, raise your prices, and 3, Cut costs.
A Lawyer to set up your entity and review all your contracts and agreements.
Social Media Marketer you want to hire this thrid. I know people will say “I can do that social media myself.” The to any good marketing is done on a consistent basis to ensure getting the word gets out about your business. The learning curve on all the platforms you will need to be a part of may require extensive time.
Website developer. People expect to see that you have a website so they can shop what you have to offer. It also will lend itself to legitimizing your business.
Conclusion
One of the best advantages that you can have is to be better prepared for every client meet and every GIG you do. This will pay off in the long run. People will notice that you are always to getter and always on time. These two things speak volumes about your professional demeanor.