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So You Want to be a Pro DJ? How to Tell if the Professional DJ Industry is Right for You

A life as a pro DJ can be rather attractive. No bosses to answer to (well, except for clients) on the road all the time, playing the music you love and making new friends along the way. Being a DJ can seem like such a glamorous job, and while it may be that it has its drawbacks like any other type of employment out there.

DJing can start off as a hobby, as a part-time business, and then turn into a full-time biz.

Frankly, some folks think being a DJ is not nearly all that it is cracked up to be, and if you are wondering whether or not being a professional DJ is right for you, you must consider pros and cons.

For those out there who may need that little bit of extra help in deciding whether or not being a pro DJ is the right thing for them, here are a few tips to help you make that decision.

Can You Afford to Be a Professional DJ?

Deciding to be a pro DJ is a big step, but half the battle is affording it. There are certain pieces of equipment that every good pro DJ should make sure that they have, like a set of turntables and speakers and good lighting and microphone equipment.

A good DJ also has to have a way of making sure that all of this equipment is able to be transported, usually with the use of a van or an SUV or something of that nature. It isn't always easy to get these things together, especially if you don't have much start up money to speak of.

Can You Handle the Pressure?

The pressure of certain gigs is the type of thing that many people use to decide that being a pro DJ is not the right thing for them. People handle pressure in different ways and the pressure of a DJing gig can be a bit too much for anybody to handle. You don't have the right music, you can't find the location, the people who hired you are getting on your nerves.

Whatever it is, it can be extremely difficult to overcome. If you are sensitive or don't have much room for criticism that's okay; some people handle criticism and pressure better than others but if you are going to be a pro DJ then you have to know how to handle things.

And you should know this... The last DJ who worked at the club you just booked a gig in? Well, he didn't do you any favors, so the bar owner is expecting you to be a goof. Be a pro and word will get around. Just ask Norm at Nightclub Pros.com.

Are You In It for the Long Haul?

If you know that the DJ business is something that you want to do for the rest of your life (or at least for a long time), being a pro DJ may be right for you. Unfortunately being a professional DJ is not the type of thing that everybody wants to do.

Maybe it's more of a hobby for you.

If you aren't in it for the long haul you could be losing a great deal of money on equipment if you are unable to resell it, although those that rent it have the advantage in that case. It is never advisable to waste money renting DJ equipment if it can be avoided, but if you are not planning on being a full-time DJ you should consider a rental.

It's About Loving What You Do

Whether you decide to go pro full-time, or just do the occasional gig, do it for the fun, for the glamour, for the music.

Consider adding a theme to your show. For example, you might be known as the DJ who raps between sets, or even while you mix. Put on a great show and you'll have a good time (and so will your audience!).

For those of you interested in becoming a professional rap artist we suggest the Rap Fundamentals course.

Also, you can check out suggestions for running your DJ Business here.

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