The Social Networking DJ
A lovely girl by the name of Amy (no relation or connection to that Amy) recently came up to me following a gig and asked me how she could get noticed. Turns out she’s a DJ as well but had been having trouble getting herself booked because she’s that thing we all are at some point in our careers ‘unknown’. Her question got me thinking hard (no small feat for me) and several answers presented themselves which I am happy to share on my blog.
Mobile phones are tools that pretty much everyone has in their pocket or bag these days. They are such a cool part of our life that I don’t think I’ve left home without mine in at least five years. Now that we have iPhones and internet available on demand, there has never been a better time to promote yourself or your work. I’m not just talking about Djing either – this advice applies to any business or person. Think about it, people are so plugged into their phones, laptops, iPods, iPhones, i-everything that it’s hard not to use the tech to reach them and promote yourself.
This promotion begins at home, but you have to be online and ready to connect everywhere you go. I recently got back from a holiday in Hungary where not only did I spend time chilling and enjoying myself, but I also used the time to keep connected with my followers on Facebook, Twitter and my blog. I did this by taking my iPhone with me and thanks to a company called abroadband I was able to share, talk and chat online for a minimum of cost. Your phone is your closest ally on the long road to success so make sure you have it with you at all times and that you have a good broadband connection.
The next question Amy asked me after I’d given her all those diamond tips was how to get noticed when you’re actually at a venue? If it’s your first booking at that venue then you have to make sure that you’ll be remembered in the right way. Some DJs think that shock choices and track tactics are the best way to get a repeat booking – they’re not! The only thing that will happen is you alienating the audience and the manager. Best thing to do is visit beforehand and study the styles of music that are being played. That way you can mix up your own selection beforehand whilst still adding in choices that make you unique without being arrogant.
Ever since I read a report earlier this year on The Guardian website about Activision cancelling their DJ series of games, I’ve been a little worried about the public’s interest in the art. That is why as a new DJ you have to be determined, patient and willing to sense a venue’s vibe. As I said to Amy, whatever happens don’t give up!
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