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Whether you’re a DJ just starting out or a veteran in the industry, marketing plays a vital role in getting your name out there and helping you stand out. Marketing as a musician allows your music to be heard, seen, and connected to the right audience. Knowing what kind of image and sound you want to show to the world helps make it easier to make your services known to the right people. It can be tough to figure out where to start, so here are five tips for marketing your DJ services:
Define your brand
Finding a competitive edge as a DJ can be challenging since the industry is saturated, but defining your brand can help set you apart. Do you envision playing at local clubs or festivals, or are you inclined towards weddings, parties, and other events? Maybe you want to be hired by certain people like nightclub owners, event organizers, or families—finding out what appeals to them and their demographics can help you align your services and branding towards their needs. The music you produce is also essential in branding, whether you go for top hits or more underground eats. Once you have a solid idea of your DJ brand, the rest of your marketing strategy can follow.
Take advantage of the online world
When it comes to marketing, one of today’s most powerful tools is the online world. Digital marketing is crucial for professional development in today’s digital landscape and can help DJs gain a wider reach. Data and growth marketing capabilities are being highly sought after across industries. Still, social media marketing and web design can be a good jumping-off point for a DJ. You likely already have social media accounts, but you should stay active as much as possible to boost your engagement with your audience and potential clients. Creating a website can bring important information to one place. Your services, rates, background, and more should be available on a functioning and visually appealing site to increase visibility.
Don’t underestimate word-of-mouth marketing
Though social media and websites are essential for marketing your DJ services today, word-of-mouth marketing can still be crucial. Reviews and testimonials can give potential clients an accurate idea of what you offer as a DJ and your service. People may trust you after hearing feedback from people who have already worked with you, which can be beneficial to leverage. User-generated content harnesses the online and offline world, which can expand your reach. Clients can create and share reviews online, helping you get your name out there. You can make online surveys and ask for reviews from the people you’ve DJed for, and you can post them on your website or use them on other marketing materials with their consent.
Network and collaborate
You don’t have to wait for your next gig or event to market your DJ services; networking with fellow DJs or your target audience and clients can open up more business opportunities for you. Attending events or forums for DJs, musicians, event planners, managers, and more can help expand your network and land you your next gig. You can create diverse connections with prospective clients or service providers. Collaborating with other DJs or musicians can also help you grow your network and audience and benefit other artists by increasing their reach. Don’t forget to offer help in return and prove your services are worth a referral.
Walk the talk
One of the best ways to market your DJ services is to showcase them effectively. If you can understand what a client or audience wants to hear, it can be an excellent way for you to secure business with others listening to you play. Even if you’re a new DJ who’s improving your skills, working with a beginner DJ setup with high-quality equipment can give you an edge over the competition. Knowing how to work with your gear and get the audience going can show that you know what you’re doing, which can attract more prospective clients and listeners.
Written by Kate Aliana McLeod
Exclusive for hollywooddj.com