Disc jockey: Job description and activities

Disc jockeys, or DJs, present, link and play records. DJs working in radio may undertake similar work activities to those of a radio presenter: e.g. hosting phone-ins and interviewing guests. However, the vast majority of DJs run mobile discos and perform in pubs and clubs at night, often in addition to daytime employment.

You need to be technically competent with the necessary equipment (vinyl or CD turntables, microphone, amplifier, sound mixer, speakers and lights, etc). Club DJs increasingly use laptops and other computer software to play and edit music live, so familiarity with music software programs can help.

DJs are mostly self-employed and need the organisational skills and capability to manage all elements of their business, including finance and promotion. At a higher level, most have an agent who books gigs and arranges travel.

Some DJs develop a set style, e.g. house, garage, or dance music; others play middle-of-the-road material suitable for weddings and family parties.

Other options include working on an in-store radio station, which an increasing number of large supermarkets and retailers now have, and hospital radio, which can be a good grounding for a professional career as a DJ. Many professional disc jockeys working for national and regional broadcasters began their careers in hospital radio.

To become a regular DJ on a music station you must know your subject from top to bottom; you have to be articulate and easy to work with, and be able to stay calm under pressure.

Various DJing courses are available, but you should research course content, tutors, any relevant industry accreditations and likely outcomes prior to committing yourself.

For more information see Broadcast presenter.

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