DJ Training Checklist

I'm typically not a checklist person.  I know some people who swear by checklists and I can see why.  They provide structure to otherwise complex processes.  So, as I consider how best to train multiple DJ's as efficiently as possible, I have decided to create a checklist of things that I want my DJs to know and demonstrate before I send them on their own solo gigs. I'm sure this list will change many times before I feel it is comprehensive.  But for now, you can get a sense of what you'll need to learn in the coming months by reviewing the list below.

As DJs shadow me and complete their field training, I will be using this checklist to determine how well they are progressing.  We'll cover all of these topics in detail in future articles.  Fasten your seatbelt, it's going to be a fun ride!

Can the DJ name all of the components of a PA system?

Can the DJ wire the PA system?

Is the DJ thoughtful about where to place speakers?

Is the DJ thoughtful about where to run cords & tape?

Can the DJ thoughtfully wire PA system, run cords and prepare workspace?

Can the DJ work the mixing controls?

Is the DJ familiar with all of the controls on a mixing board?

Can the DJ dismantle the PA system and put it away?

Can the DJ work dance floor light(s)

Can the DJ program and place LED par can uplights?

Can the DJ set up the gobo light?

Is the DJ familiar with his/her own music storage & delivery system

Can the DJ plug his music into the PA system?

Can the DJ access Gigbuilder software to view event info?

Can the DJ access Gigbuilder software to print out song requests, timeline, & event notes?

Is the DJ well dressed for semi-formal event (suit or dress clothes)?

Does the DJ have a dependable vehicle?

Does the DJ keep a calendar of sorts to remember appointments & gigs?

Does the DJ love music?

Does the DJ enjoy interacting with people?

Is the DJ polite and well mannered?

Is the DJ well spoken?

Has the DJ facilitated mini sets of music (15 to 20 minutes) at a gig?

Has the DJ facilitated half the music sets at a gig?

Has the DJ facilitated most or all of the music at a gig?

Can the DJ effectively make simple announcements on the mic?

Can the DJ speak effectively at length on the mic?

Can the DJ effectively multi-task during an event?

Has the DJ facilitated a sales phone call with a prospective client?

Has the DJ observed a sales meeting with a prospective client?

Has the DJ actively participated in a sales meeting with a prospective client

Has the DJ observed a planning meeting with a client?

Has the DJ actively participated in a planning meeting with a client?

Can the DJ facilitate an entire event  - sales/booking, planning & performance?

DJ has shadowed at least 1 event

DJ has shadowed at least 5 events

DJ has shadowed at least 15 events

DJ has shadowed at least 20 events

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