DJ
Entertain people and get them dancing by playing music in clubs, at events, or on the radio.
Also known as: disc jockey, radio host, radio presenter
About the job
A day in the life – Radio DJ
What it's like
You’d entertain people and get them dancing by playing music at in clubs, at events, or on the radio.
You’d select music you think the audience will like. You’d use different formats including vinyl, CD or MP3, and a range of equipment such as turntables, mixers, microphones and amplifiers to play it.
You’d need to play the music, get the next tracks ready and perhaps respond to requests or chat with radio guests, while operating the equipment.
As a club DJ you would play and mix records in clubs or bars, to create a fun atmosphere or keep people dancing. You’d choose music to suit your audience’s taste and the venue’s music policy.
You might:
Operate lighting and visual effects in time to the beat
Create your own sounds by manipulating beats, using samples, adding extra music and sound effects
Work with an MC who raps or sings over the music
As a radio DJ or presenter, you would present a radio programme in your own style.
You would
Choose the music to be played
Keep up an entertaining and natural flow of chat
Interact with the audience through phone-ins, emails, texts and social media
Keep to a very tight timing schedule
Interview studio guests
Operate studio equipment to play music, pre-recorded news, jingles and advertisements - known as ‘driving the desk’
Discuss ideas with the producer, write scripts and prepare playlists for future shows
Many radio DJs also perform live as club DJs.
As a mobile DJ you would play music at social events such as weddings and parties. You would take your own equipment and music to each venue you played at. You’d probably discuss the music choices with the people organising the event.
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Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- creative
- researching
- verbal communication
- working with technology
- developing a plan
- self esteem
- taking initiative
- time management
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Music
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Music Technology
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Skills for Work: Creative Industries
There are no set entry requirements but it helps to have some subjects at National 4 or 5 (SCQF level 4/5).
Some applicants undertake courses prior to applying to help develop their skills in this area.
Some applicants have undertaken a course within a relevant area. You can enter sound production, music technology or Sound Engineering National Certificate or National Qualification courses (SCQF levels 2-6) with no formal qualifications but most courses ask for National 4/5 qualifications (SCQF level 4/5).
You can enter Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or Higher National Diploma courses (SCQF level 8) with National 4/5 qualifications and one to two Highers or equivalent qualifications.
You will need a love of music, and to build up knowledge of music technology and what the current music trends are. You’ll also need to start building your collection of music and equipment.
You will also need to develop your own style as a DJ, based on your personality.
Qualifications and experience that show industry knowledge and technical expertise such as:
Skills for Work Creative & Digital (SCQF level 4 )
Creative Industries (SCQF level 5)
a National Certificate in Sound Production (SCQF level 6)
Getting experience will help you to develop your skills and start to make contacts in the industry.
Technical training can be useful.
Producing a demo disc or mp3 of your work to send to prospective employers is useful.
Mobile DJs must have a driving licence and it is also useful for other DJs.
If you will be working in a licenced premises where alcohol is served you need to be at least 18 years old.
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