In a recent post on his blog, my fellow DJ Nick Logan commented “If you’re looking at a photographer who “has great pictures but is much cheaper than everyone else”, ask yourself WHY that is”. I found this comment extremely poignant and it really holds true for any service provider, DJs included.
If a DJ says he does everything for you that the recognised professional DJs do, but for a fraction of the price, perhaps ask yourself how and why? If he could do everything the pro does, wouldn’t he also charge a professional fee for his time, effort, learning, expertise and talent?
Has he taken time out of his busy schedule and day job to learn more about his craft? Has he invested time and money in attending seminars, workshops, training, courses and conventions relating to the art of entertaining? Has he dedicated himself to helping you form a proper written plan to make your event a success? Will he even guarantee in writing his personal attendance on the day?
In short, if he was doing everything the pro DJ does, why isn’t he charging a professional rate? Doesn’t he value his own service highly?
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As for me, I am constantly striving to learn more. I want to consistently offer my clients and their guests the absolute best that is available in quality DJ entertainment. I’ve subscribed to MobileBeat Magazine, attended the MobileBeat DJ Convention
in Las Vegas in 2006, 2008 and 2009, I own copies of Randy Bartlett’s 1% Solution DVD set for DJs, Scott Faver’s GameMaster DVD series, Peter Merry’s ‘The Best Wedding Reception EVER‘ and dozens more books, CDs, DVDs and other materials all acquired to help me improve my craft.
I completed the Advanced Master of Ceremonies workshop in Las Vegas in 2008 and am one of only two DJ/MCs in New Zealand with this certification. Even the best actors, sports people and business people keep practicing their craft, getting coaching and getting direction from others. Do I wonder what work the cheaper guy is doing to improve his service to his clients? You BET I DO!
The Marbecca Method MC Workshop graduates in Las Vegas, February 2008.
May 11th, 2009 at 4:00 pm
But wait – there’s more! Training and education sure could help open the minds of a lot of Kiwi DJs. Many of them already have the key ingredient that makes all the DVDs and seminars worth while.
May 11th, 2009 at 8:02 pm
Hi Richard, looks like I may be in Vegas in 2010, finally got wife approval for the trip !!
May 12th, 2009 at 12:45 am
Paul that’s awesome. I guess I’d better think about blocking out the dates myself and working out how I’ll raise the funds THIS time. I’d recommend speaking with Sandy and Paul about their experience- I’m certain they’ll have some poignant advice for you.
Nick, You’re right. As DJs we should already have the basics covered, but there are three critical ingredients missing that are holding them back in my opinion:
1. Attitude. The desire to really do what’s right for their clients and to strive for excellence. Laziness and apathy abound in our industry.
2. The understanding that no matter how good they are, there’s still SO much left to learn and to improve on.
3. Ego. It gets in the way. Once I realised that I actually wasn’t that good compared with some of the DJs I communicated with (mostly in America), I was able to put my dented ego to bed and start listening, watching and learning.
I was guilty of all three of these things.