Disc jockeys (DJs) present, mix and link recorded music for a live or radio audience. They use a wide variety of equipment varying in sophistication including turntables, mixers, tape decks, amplifiers, headphones, graphic equalizers, lighting effects, computers and multimedia & sound processors.

There are three main types of DJs:
Radio DJs are broadcast presenters that work at radio stations providing links between music tracks. Links are filled with, for example:
· conversation, anecdotes or jokes
· phone-ins
· adverts
· news, weather and traffic items
· interviews.
Radio DJs usually present a programme that reflects their personality and musical interests. They use mixing techniques, improvisation and work to a tight timing schedule.

Club DJs mix music and use other techniques to create a performance for a dance audience. They need to be aware of the venue’s music policy and their clientele. Techniques they may use include:
· pitch control
· scratching
· drop and MP3 mixing
· cross fading
· beat matching and juggling
· effects processing
· sampling and sequencing.

Mobile DJs provide musical entertainment at weddings, parties and other social events. They try to create a fun atmosphere by being the Master of Ceremonies (MC). They normally provide their own records (vinyl and CDs) and equipment.

Depending on the role, DJs may be required to market and promote themselves.

Hours and Environment –

DJs work irregular and varied hours depending on their time slot, for example a radio DJ may work a morning show or a club DJ will often work into the early hours of the morning. DJs are likely to spend some time preparing a play list, setting up equipment and traveling to venues.
The working environment varies. Mobile DJs might work in village halls, pubs, public buildings, or outdoors. Radio DJs may work in air-conditioned studios or occasionally at outdoor events. Club DJs normally work in hot, loud and smoky environments.
Some DJs work on a part-time or casual basis combining DJing with another source of income.
Skills and Interests
To be a DJ, you should:
· have a keen and well-developed interest in music
· be technically competent with your equipment
· have a confident and outgoing personality
· have some understanding of sound engineering and music technology
· be a clear and articulate communicator, particularly for radio
· have a good sense of rhythm
· be creative and enthusiastic about music
· have good timing and co-ordination
· have good business skills
· be able to work calmly under pressure and organise your own workload.

Entry –

There is no set career route for DJs and formal qualifications are not always necessary. However, commercial radio sets it’s own standards for recruitment and may require a good general standard of education, particularly a high standard of written English along with voice quality and other requirements.

Entry differs depending on whether a DJ works for an employer like a radio station, or is self-employed. It is important that prospective DJs can demonstrate their skills and knowledge of a particular area of music, technical equipment and DJing techniques. Freelance DJs will need to promote themselves as a business by, for example, designing and distributing flyers.

Prospective radio DJs can gain experience from work placements with the commercial radio stations, but will need to be good communicators and highly motivated as competition for places is strong. Some knowledge of digital audio editing software, like Cool Edit Pro or Adobe Audition, might be requested. It is important that new entrants do some research about their potential audience. Working in a related job such as radio production assistant, may be a useful starting point. Voluntary work with hospital, college or community radio is a valuable way of gaining practical experience.

Club DJs often start by building their reputation in bars, making contacts and moving on to bigger and more prestigious venues with the aim of establishing a residency at a club. They will often create a mix CD or demo and use this to demonstrate their skills.

Mobile DJs need to have their own equipment and music, and build their reputation through word of mouth or advertising.

Opportunities

Most club, radio and mobile DJs are either self-employed or are offered freelance contracts. It is important that they build their reputation, are successful networkers and are committed to self-promotion. Occasionally, DJs are employed by clubs and the hospitality industry. Successful DJs can find work opening events and giving personal appearances. There are also increasingly good opportunities for experienced club DJs to work abroad. It is possible for DJs to move into related roles in music production, music retailing and recording. They could become club promoters, agents, remix producers, record distributors or even musical artists in their own right.