How to get more bookings

In a world where many want to be DJs, you need to stand out from the crowd. There are far too many average wannabe DJs out there and they’re probably getting more gigs than you do. Not only that but the rise in popularity of DJing from hobby nerd to ultra-cool celebrities means there’s more competition than ever.

It’s almost as if there’s a formula that everyone thinks you need to stick to. Play the crowd pleasures, wave your hands in there are and fiddle with as many buttons as you can. Nothing could be further from the truth!

DJing isn’t just about beat-matching and mixing. It’s about curating the ultimate party playlist and thrilling the audience by taking them on a musical journey, building them up with audio intensity, taking them from one musical style to another with creativity and flare. So just playing “the hits” isn’t enough to surpass credible expectations.

Some of the best world-class DJs are known for their unique mixing styles. One that is almost their signature mark move from gig to gig. It might be a specific type of playlist or the way they mix between tracks or involve multiple tracks at once. If you’re looking to stand out from the crowd you’ll need to come up with your unique move. Your sets should always be memorable.

DJing is so much more than just mixing and blending music you need to be a professional business person too. Running an event of any sort that requires a DJ is not easy. It takes a lot of organisation and professionalism to pull it off. Your potential clients expect you to exhibit at least, the following professional qualities;

Be polite – Don’t try and win an argument with a client. Usually, it sends across a bad impression.

FG considers excise duty on soft drinks

Be generous – Go the extra mile to making the event or gig a success Make sure you meet the client’s expectations and exceed them if you can

Offer your services as a backup – let your clients know you can stand in last minute if someone lets them down

Be on time – Don’t let a client down, be early, be ready

Bring backup equipment – Equipment break down at the worst possible moment so be prepared.

Remember you’re responsible during your set to entertain and do the job you’re being paid for. Professional DJs get more bookings.

Finally, represent your brand when meeting people. Whether you’re DJing at a corporate event, festival or wedding, you are your brand so be sure to promote yourself well. Be friendly and polite, smile and be happy even if you’re not feeling it.

The moments spent with those you meet will set first impressions that could last a lifetime. Don’t be remembered for being ill-tempered, quiet or unprofessional. If people are paying to see you or might consider booking you then present yourself in the best possible way.

Throw-back party pace pusher for this week is 9ice– Gongo Aso

David Olagunju