How to Get Started Being a DJ

When you listen to a DJ on the radio, it all sounds so easy, doesn't it? Well, getting started in the business is absolutely the toughest part. The following steps will help you get your foot in the door at a radio station and teach you how to work your way up to the top spot on the air.

Instructions

1. Do you have a degree in broadcasting, or any related degree or experience? If so, you're off to a good start. Either way, you will need to put together some sort of work resume ... and don't worry if it is too short or lacking in substance. Anything you can put down on paper will help. References are key! Even if you have only worked in a restaurant, or as a cashier, you need to have some references you can count on that will give you a solid referral as a good, reliable worker. If you have been a full-time student, then use teachers and professors as references.

2. Scout out all of the radio stations in your area. This is easy to do on the internet, as these days, most stations have websites. Research their format and style. Do not be discouraged if they are not listing employment opportunities. Some of them don't mention it even when they have job openings. And remember, this is a business with a constantly revolving door. Employees come and go quite often. So plan to submit a resume, even if the person you contact at the station tells you they are not looking for anyone at the time.

3. Record your voice! If you are a college student, this is easy to do. If not, its easy to find a recording studio that will charge a reasonable fee to record you. Come up with a "bit" ... listen to other DJs to get ideas. All you need is less than four minutes on tape, so your potential employer can hear your voice and get an idea of what your personality is like. This recording should be in an mp3 format so that you can easily email it. You should also have copies on disc to drop off to radio stations.

4. Flood the market now with your materials. Knock on doors, send emails, make phone calls. Know that, at this point, a station is very unlikely to just put you on the air. If you get hired, it will likely be as a production assistant or something of the sort. And often, it will be during the really rough overnight hours! That's okay; it's how many successful DJs get started. Be willing to take whatever job you can get, just to get into that station. Show enthusiasm (not desperation), and make it clear you are willing to work weekends, on-call shifts, etc. When you get your foot in the door, you will be surrounded by people who can teach you, and you will begin your climb up the ladder to the on-air position you want.

5. Don't dismiss the idea of starting as an intern. Sometimes these positions pay, sometimes they don't. But they can pave the way to your on-air career. Once you are hired, for whatever position, learn everything you can! Don't just try to become the voice on the air. Learn how to run the production board and how the promotions department works. Get to know the salespeople; help out on live remotes. This will not only show that you are willing to do what it takes to get the job you want, but you will have all of that extra knowledge once you get there!

Tips & Warnings

• Don't give up. This is a very competitive business, and it might take some time to get in.

• Practice at home. Record your voice and listen to it. If you can afford it, take some voice lessons.

• Listen to your local DJs! Learn from them.