Warning about DJ companies
Do you believe that a disc jockey can make or break your event? We’re here to say that they can. Just ask any banquet hall manager or photographer about the horror stories they’ve witnessed. There are many disc jockey services disguising themselves as professionals when, in actuality, they are not. These pseudo companies are damaging the reputation of our industry. The ability to download illegal music doesn’t make one a dj. Since there isn’t any licensing involved in becoming a dj, practically anyone can claim to be one. The only thing these individuals are concerned with is making a few extra bucks while not at all caring about the details of your event, let alone your complete satisfaction. They put relatively little to no effort into the preparation of what’s supposed to be a great event and they have no reputation to uphold.
Every year, we receive countless calls from frantic people who have hired disc jockey companies that fit this description. The company they hired had either cancelled on them or simply disappeared, many times taking their money. When I politely ask how much the company charged them, it’s usually the same story. They either hired a friend, acquaintance, someone just getting started or a person that just “does it on the side” and they received “a great deal”. I find that usually means ridiculously cheap. So when their so-called “professional” disc jockey service either found something better to do on the day of their event or booked a higher paying party, the client was left hanging. Their dj company didn’t even have the decency to find a replacement.
We hear many other stories about these types of disc jockeys, like:
- the dj got drunk at the event
- the dj didn’t even have the bride and groom’s first dance song
- the dj didn’t play what his clients requested
- the dj didn’t honor requests from the guests
- the dj played the music so loud that the older folks left early
- the dj was flirting with the opposite sex all night
- the dj used offensive language over the microphone
- the dj hardly said anything during the event
- the dj forgot to incorporate certain events that were previously discussed, like the father/daughter dance or the dollar dance
- the dj mispronounced names at the grand introduction) the dj cut in front of the parents in the buffet line
- the dj had inappropriate attire
- the dj’s equipment looked like it was 20 years old
- the dj’s equipment broke down during the event and the party ended early
Trust me; there are MANY MORE horror stories. These are just a few that I recall hearing from reliable sources. I just can’t emphasize enough how many bad disc jockeys are out there and if your event is really important to you, you need to choose your entertainment company carefully!
Characteristics of a “Bad” DJ Company
You’re probably wondering how you might recognize these types of dj companies. In your initial conversation, there are several “red flags” to look for…
If you notice unprofessional phone etiquette or a lack of knowledge in regard to your event, consider that a forewarning.
Many of these companies don’t offer an agreement or contract. Anyone that operates a business on a handshake should be considered a risk.
These companies usually don’t offer a detailed planner, comprehensive music list or a pre-event consultation. How will the dj know exactly what you want?
If the company you’re interested in asks for the whole amount up front, usually in cash, I would be suspicious. All you should pay is a minimal deposit and the balance when services are rendered.
If you constantly leave messages and don’t receive a return call promptly, that’s a sign of someone who doesn’t take their business seriously.
What You Do Know Won’t Hurt You
Now that you know what not to look for in a dj company, here are a few of the more important items you should explore.
Get references from people that have first-hand experience working with disc jockeys with an unbiased opinion. For example, banquet hall managers and photographers would be my first pick. They will give you their honest recommendation since they don’t want to see you end up with a disappointing dj. If they are willing to stick their neck out recommending a company, then you know every aspect of that company must be 1st rate.
Ask for testimonials. If the company you’re interviewing produces hundreds of positive feedback letters, you can feel pretty confident that they’ll do a fantastic job for you too.
Make sure the company offers back-up equipment and back-up disc jockeys. Most single operators don’t have back-up, so if the dj gets sick or hurt or their equipment breaks, you could be out of luck.
Find out what their disc jockeys do to improve their craft. Ask if they attend disc jockey conventions, read related articles or belong to any organizations.
Last but not least, contact the Better Business Bureau to see if the company has any negative feedback. If the company is committed to excellence, you’ll find a clean record.
In your quest for the perfect dj, keep in mind that in terms of pricing and promises assured, if the offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. My suggestion to you is to do yourself a favor and really research the disc jockey company you’re interested in before you hire them. Disc jockeys do make or break events – that’s a fact! Don’t treat your choice like a blind date – you may be disappointed. No other company will make your party better. So what are you waiting for? Call us today at 616-437-2800 or contact us online and hire Michigan Pro DJs. You’ll be glad you did!