I often see questions on social media about specific marketing channels like paid ads, online portals, and even cold calling.

We're often sold the dream that there's just one way to guarantee new business, but I’ve learned over many years that there are a lot of people out there happy to take your money but not quite so quick with guarantees.

So, what’s the answer? Well, for me the most obvious place to look is at that skill set we mentioned.
Think about the number of people you’ve performed for this year, the number of venues you’ve worked in, and the agents you’ve worked through. Now, ask yourself a fundamental question: were you the best DJ they’ve seen?

“Best” is a pretty loose term when it comes to DJs, and it encompasses a lot of things that have nothing to do with your technical skills. You could mix and scratch better than any DMC champion, or be incredible with a mic. But if your people skills are less than perfect, your chance of getting future work from that gig is slim to say the least.

Let’s start with the venue. You might think they want their customers to have the best party ever, but that's often not the reality. It’s very likely you’re the fourth or fifth DJ they’ve seen this week. The staff, from the F&B manager down to the newest recruit, just want to get through the event with the minimum fuss. There’s a blocked toilet in the ladies’, the gents has run out of soap, the busiest beer barrel tastes “off,” Dave has called in sick, and the bride’s mum is on a rant because the table covers are creased. I could go on and on.

The truth is, they don’t care if you mix or scratch flawlessly. But if you’re someone who has been a pleasure to work with, who helped rather than hindered, you’re going to be very popular. And just one venue could provide you with dozens of gigs for years to come.

There is no single way to be a success in our line of work.
I firmly believe that DJ skills are important, but just as vital are great customer skills, excellent communication, solid business plans, and no small amount of passion and drive.

And that is exactly why we run Pro Mobile Conference. It’s a chance for anyone who has an interest in progressing their DJ business, at any level. The first one I attended was nerve-racking. I knew of some of the attendees when I got there. By the time I left, they were friends and business allies, and that weekend changed my entire career.

If you have any questions at all, pick up the phone and call me.