How to Prepare to Be a Disc Jockey

DJs mix music and create sound effects.

Disc jockeys, often referred to as DJs, work for radio stations or nightclubs. Radio disc jockeys choose what music to play, conduct interviews, deliver news and answer calls from listeners. Disc jockeys who work in nightclubs choose songs, mix music, create sound effects and speak between songs, usually to make announcements or pump up the crowd. While no specific degree is required, the coursework and experiences you choose can help you prepare for a career as a disc jockey.

Instructions

1. Develop your written and oral communication skills. Take courses during high school in communications, journalism, speech and English. Join your school's drama club to enhance your public speaking skills.

2. Enroll in a relevant degree program at a college or technical school. Communications, English, journalism, music and drama are all appropriate choices.

3. Work at your school radio station. Learn about the equipment, conduct live interviews, deliver news and choose music to play. Save clips of your interviews, news broadcasts and commentary. These clips can be used to help you get your first job as a disc jockey.

4. Complete an internship at a radio station, while you are a student or after graduation. You'll learn more about the equipment used and you'll learn from watching established disc jockeys. Save clips of your broadcasts.

5. Work at a nightclub. Learn to mix music, create sound effects and use lighting to create the right atmosphere for the crowd. Many disc jockeys start out working for free in nightclubs on slower nights, gaining experience and meeting people in the industry. Once you build up your reputation as a DJ, you'll be able to find paying work.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep up to date with music trends and popular musicians. Whether you work for a radio station or nightclub, you need to know what your audience wants to hear.

References

• Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011: Disc Jockey
• Princeton Review: Disc Jockey