If you are passionate about music and skilled at creating playlists that people enjoy and are ready to dance to, enjoy going out, and don’t mind working late nights, starting a business as a DJ could be an ideal option for you. The good news is that you do not need a lot of startup funds to become a DJ and start earning money. The basics that you will need include speakers, a good amp, mixer, microphone, lights, and other optional equipment like fog machines. You will also need your own transportation to get yourself and your equipment to and from parties and events. DJ software has evolved in a lot of ways these days, and you can even use apps on your smartphone to create and play your music. If this is a business idea that sounds appealing to you, read on for some top tips for getting started.
Learn Basic DJ Skills
If you don’t know how to DJ, learning some basic DJ skills is going to be the first step that you take in starting your own business. The good news is that this is easier than ever to do these days with plenty of information online that you can use to teach yourself, such as the information from Pirate that provides you with everything you need to get started as you learn how to DJ here. Along with info that will help you learn how to DJ successfully, Pirate also provides further information on starting a music business and recording studios available to hire in various areas around the world including the US, UK, and Europe.
Determine Your Goals and Target Audience
DJs can work in a range of different settings, so determining your goals for your business and the kind of target audience that you want to attract is an important first step in starting your company. You are likely going to attract a different crowd of people as a wedding DJ as you would as a club DJ, for example. Any successful business owner starts out by being clear with their goals and getting a solid understanding of what they are working towards. Begin by identifying the kind of DJ service that you want to offer, and then consider your brand and how you are going to market yourself. Once you have done this, it is easier to research your competition and figure out what you could do better to stand out in the market.
Create a DJ Name
Many DJs use a fake name, while others will simply use their own name. If you want a unique DJ name for your business, it’s important to come up with one that is easy to remember, catchy, and hasn’t already been taken by somebody else. But remember that keeping it simple is sometimes best, and your own name could be the one that makes you famous. In addition, it’s important to consider the fact that your DJ name is also likely to be your business name. It should be user-friendly and ideally available as a website domain name.
Designing Your Logo and Visual Brand
Once you have identified the kind of DJ service you will be offering, your goals, your target market, and the name that you will be using for your business, it’s time to design your logo and the other visual aspects of your brand. Every small business needs a logo, and DJ service is no different. A logo will give your brand identity and help it come to life. You can be creative with your logo design; it doesn’t have to exactly describe what you do and who you are, but it should be a visual that provides some insight into your brand. In addition, a good logo will encourage people to remember you and your brand, since the human brain processes images and visuals around sixty thousand times faster than text. Make sure that you are happy with your finished logo since you will be using it on your website, business cards, flyers, and other business materials.
Set Up a Website
Having a website for your DJ business is a must since the majority of people are going to be searching for services like the ones you offer online. While setting up your own website can be a daunting process if you are not very tech-savvy, the good news is that there are plenty of easy-to-use web builders today that you can take advantage of to design a professional-looking site, or you could always pay a web designer to do it for you and bring your ideas to life. Ideally, your website should include all the information that potential clients need to know about you and the kind of service you provide. Include high-quality photos of you performing and videos where possible to make it easier for your potential customers to know what to expect. Your contact information should be clear on the site and it’s worth using an online booking system or a booking inquiry form to allow people to quickly get in touch and reserve you for their dates.
Use Social Media
Promoting your services as a DJ is important for getting the results that you want and building up a client base. While you can certainly get more clients by handing out business cards after events or asking your happy customers to recommend you to their friends and family members, proactively promoting yourself and marketing your services is key. One of the best ways to do this is social media since you can post on behalf of your business for free on sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. You already know who your main target audience is, so figure out which apps they tend to use the most often and make sure that you are promoting your services there. Facebook groups are an ideal way to meet with others in the industry and promote your services further.
Finding Clients
Finding clients is ongoing work for anyone who owns a DJ business. Once you have established your business goals, determined your niche, come up with a name, designed a logo, launched your business website, and started promoting yourself on social media, it’s time to get ready to get paid to be the life and soul of the party. As a DJ, there are lots of different places where you can find clients, including the aforementioned social media networks and groups. Check out networking events in your city. You don’t have to attend music-based networking events to find clients as a DJ; you may be surprised at who is looking to hire you. Events for business owners in your area, for example, can be a great way to find clients as you never know who is looking to hire a DJ for their upcoming wedding, corporate event, or birthday party. It’s also a good idea to take advantage of word-of-mouth marketing – ask your family, friends, and satisfied clients to spread the word about what you do.
If you love music and want to get paid to party, starting a business as a DJ could be the ideal venture for you. Since DJs are hired for a range of different events, music styles, and more, it’s a great career for those who want flexibility and the option to do what they love the most.
