DJ Owner
If you are out there on your own as a DJ, running events, you know what it’s like to try to manage an event while you are DJing. There are so many things going on, so many people to talk to and make happy, that sometimes it can make your head spin. Plus, all that logistical thinking is taking you out of your DJ flow. The easiest way to take all of that worry off of your mind is with a Wedding Planner Worksheet.
If you want to run a successful business, you need a business plan. It’s pretty much Business 101. You need something written to understand if you are working on something that’s going to pay off, or if your time is just being wasted. And, once you’ve determined that your DJ business is viable, you’ll use your business plan to figure out what to work on next. A business plan is so useful for a small business owner. And, think how many DJs actually sat down to write out a plan for their DJ business. Basically none. You will be light years ahead of your competition.
Ugh, taxes! Nobody likes them, and it’s the last thing you want to think about as a DJ. But, you know what worse than paying taxes? Getting in trouble for NOT paying taxes.
So repeat after me: I am a professional DJ running a professional DJ business, so as a professional, I will pay my taxes.
So, you’re running a DJ business. Things seem good, you’re booking events, you’re making money. But, how do you know if you’re actually doing well enough to meet your goals? How do you know if you are going to succeed, or if your DJ business is on the road to failure?
What happens if the client wants you to keep going? Do you do it for free? Do you have an awkward negotiation? Do you just say no?
Tipping can be a sensitive subject as a DJ. Of course, we love them. You can earn some serious extra money if you are consistently earning tips. But, it’s not like you can just come out and ask for one. Or can you? Like Salt-n-Pepa said, “Let’s talk about [tips], ba-by!”
If you think about a professional concert venue, there’s two main areas for the performers: on stage and backstage. At a mobile DJ event, though, you are almost always on stage. Any place a guest can see you is “on stage” in our world, and that includes the bathroom! If you are not aware of how you appear to your clients and their guests, you could be costing yourself thousands of dollars in lost referrals and future events!
There are a great number of places you can play as a DJ. Some of them will make you lots of money, some of them will be a ton of fun, and some of them won’t be worth the hassle.
Here’s my ranking from least to most favorite in terms of profitability and overall enjoyment as a DJ.
If you are going to be a professional DJ, you have to be a professional. Professionals don’t steal (unless they are professional criminals). You need to be above board.
Okay, so I’ll admit it. This one’s really nit-picky. But this blog is all about being professional. So, this falls into that category.
I never, EVER, use the word “gig” to refer to a client’s event.