DJ
DJs (Disc Jockeys) curate and play music at events, parties, or clubs, creating an energetic and enjoyable atmosphere by selecting and mixing tracks that suit the mood and preferences of the audience.
Your working environment may be long and unsociable hours but if you love music this could be the job for you.
Most DJ’s work on a self-employed basis.
Day-today Task
As DJ you might:
- play and mix records in clubs or bars to create atmosphere or keep people dancing.
- choose music to suit your audience's taste and the venue's music policy
- operate lighting and visual effects in time to the beat
- create your own sounds, manipulate beats, use samples and add music and sound effects
As a radio DJ or presenter you could:
- choose the music to be played
- interact with the audience through phone-ins, emails, texts and social media, and interviewing studio guests
- keep to a very tight timing schedule
- operate studio equipment to play music, pre-recorded news, jingles and advertisements (known as 'driving the desk)
Skills and Knowledge
- knowledge of media production and communication
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- the ability to use your initiative
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software