How to Become a Disc Jockey

Disc Jockeys typically work for radio stations playing music, reading the news or weather, and even interviewing guests. Experience is vital to landing a job in this field, but radio stations also look for individuals with good speaking voices, proper grammar, and writing skills. Obtaining a job as a disc jockey is very competitive, and while some individuals quickly land a spot right out of schools, the majority with have to work their way up the ladder to eventually hosting or co-hosting their own radio show. Instructions

Step 1
Find a college with either an excellent communications department or look into trade schools that specialize in broadcasting. Visit the school and ask the enrollment advisor about the campus radio station, career placement, available internships, and possibly even sit in on a class. Find out where alumni of the school have landed positions and what coursework must be completed in order to earn a degree or certificate.

Step 2
Get as much experience while in school as you can. Start as early as high school volunteering to read announcements or participate in the schools broadcast journalism club, if there is one. In college, volunteer to take any shift available for the campus radio station. Seek internships for various radio stations and deejays, even if they are outside your area of interest or in an undesirable location. Experience is the key to landing a position as a disc jockey. Work on your spoken and written communications skills including proper grammar and delivery. Many deejays hone their skills and make extra cash working events such as parties and weddings as a self contractor or for an established company.

Step 3
Seek employment after obtaining your degree across a wide range of geographic locations and types of radio programs. You may not immediately land a job as a disc jockey on the radio, but you may be able to find a position producing radio or working with equipment that will allow you to network and eventually land a position hosting or co-hosting your own radio program. If you want to work for an all music station, stay up to date on the relevant music and new and upcoming bands.

Step 4
Polish your demo and your resume as you gain experience and improve. If you are not receiving any interview offers use the resources you have to rework your demo reel or aircheck and have a mentor or professional review it for feedback.Skill

Things You'll Need
*Broadcast journalism or communications degree or certificate
*Demo reel or aircheck
*Resume

Tips
*Earnings for a disc jockey are higher in large cities than small towns.
*Taking classes in English, public speaking, and drama are useful for aspiring disc jockeys.

Warnings
*According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics The number of disc jockey positions is expected to decline moderately between the years of 2008 and 2018.Reference

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Disc Jockey
• Connecticut School of Broadcasting: Career in Radio & Television
• Connecticut School of Broadcasting : Career Zone