If you were only to buy one book for your mobile DJ business, this would be it.
There are only a few books written for the mobile DJ market. Some are OK, some not. The one book that I highly recommend is “The Mobile DJ Handbook” by Stacy Zemon.
Stacy has been a DJ for over 25 years and her experience really shows through in this fine book. While I don’t agree with everything she says, most of the information is so valuable that it’s a “must read.”
I disagree with is the chapter called “The Interactive DJ.” A DJs style is a personal one. Not all DJs are of the type that plays constant games and gets out and dances with the crowd. Also, a lot of clients don’t want the stereotypical DJ who dresses up like Humpty Hump and runs around with a plastic, inflatable guitar. If that’s you, great. If it’s not, that’s great too. When learning your own style, study really good DJs who you like and emulate what they do. Eventually your own style develops.
You are also not going to get the best equipment advice, as most of it will be outdated by the time a new version hits the shelves. The part about lighting is very limited.
But, the rest of the book is packed with information about how to be a good mobile DJ and run an efficient mobile DJ business. The business section alone is awesome with DJ tips on setting up your accounting and bookkeeping, advertising, insurance and all of the other office things you need to really be good at running your business.
Information on preparing for events is helpful, as is the chapter on selling your services. She’s a little light in the internet department, as many DJs get 80% or more of their business from online searches and a great website. But that would be a book unto itself.
The sample contract she provides is a great starting point, which you can tweak to fit your own particular situation. She also includes a sample “wedding party introduction sheet” which is very good. These aren’t the only forms you’ll need if you are a wedding and party DJ, but it’s enough to get you pointed in the right direction.
Whether you are just starting out, or you want to tighten up your DJ business that’s developed organically over the years, pick this thing up now. I can almost promise you that your competition already has. I got mine from Amazon for about 20 bucks.
