Keys to Finding A DJ Manager
February 6, 2018
Most DJs know that there’s more to their business than actually playing music. Many busy DJs may be thinking that hiring a DJ manager may help take some of the extra responsibilities off their plates. The question is, what are the keys to finding a DJ manager? Consider these suggestions before you set out to hire the perfect professional help.
If You Build It, They Will Come
One of the first keys to finding a DJ manager is being manager-worthy. What does that mean? Simply put, it is neither a manager’s job nor responsibility to create your business. You need to make sure your business is already working for you, and that you have already put in the work to be successful. In other words, make sure you have enough affairs to “manage.”
That said, before you start looking for a manager, make sure that you’re pulling in crowd numbers that show you have a solid following. You should already be creating a buzz with your performances. Though a manager may help you with that, (s)he won’t necessarily do that for you. Also, have your digital persona and business profiles up-to-date. Good managers will want to capitalize on good social media numbers–both followers and engagement.
Impressive business acumen and analytics will help you stand out and show you as a talent who is serious about his business. It will show that, while you want assistance with organizing your business, you are not dependent on someone to run anything for you.
“Don’t Call Us, We’ll Call You”
Here’s the reality: finding a DJ manager isn’t easy. But, here’s another reality: if you’re making big enough waves, chances are higher that professional managers will actually come looking for you. Believe it or not, most managers are looking for new talent. But they’re not looking for just any talent. They’re scouring the places where you should be–digital music spaces, YouTube, social media and independent music/artist sites–and searching for the names and brands that are getting the downloads, mentions and feedback.
If you’re plugged in all of the places and spaces making your mark with updated mixes and music, you will be found. Your reputation, work ethic and name should speak for themselves. Make yourself and your brand something to be noticed. Grind, visibility and consistency are crucial to getting noticed by potential managers. But when they see raw, untapped talent making moves, they will want you more than you want them.
Hire the Hungry
It’s easy to assume that proven and trusted is the way to go for almost everything in business. While this is true most of the time, finding a DJ manager may require less traditional methods. After determining that your career could benefit from additional support, the road to professional management can feel overwhelming. Perhaps you don’t have the popularity to draw the attention of most managers. Maybe you’re new in the DJ game, and your numbers aren’t where you’d like them to be. It’s no secret that the market is saturated with people who are all plotting to be the next big thing. How do you compete with that? The answer is simple. You don’t.
Instead, consider someone a bit more green, a newbie. There are just as many people who have dreams and goals of becoming a force within the industry as an entertainment manager. You, DJ, could be great for their resumes. Consider finding someone straight out of college, someone without the experience of a more seasoned, “big time” manager. The advantage here is that (s)he will often be just as hungry and eager to make a mark as you are. You can grow and learn together. Chances are, the cost will be much lower than that of a veteran management company. Hire a tenacious rookie and begin the joint journey of growing your empires together.
Ask and You Shall Receive
As cliché as it sounds, closed mouths don’t get fed. In other words, don’t be bashful about inquiring online about management leads. A simple internet search yields more suggestions than you can imagine for resources to find management. DJ forums are an awesome place to begin. They are virtual gathering spots where DJs of all experience levels and from all walks of life exchange ideas, knowledge and advice regarding various aspects of the culture.
Join a well-known forum and become a frequent poster. You’ll find that simply inquiring about management may be the key to getting tons of helpful tips and perspectives that will push you in the right direction. Remember that as a DJ you are also considered an artist. Expand your information horizons by visiting independent artist forums, as well. Take advantage of all the leads you can. You have questions, and they have answers. This is the first step in what will ideally be a symbiotic relationship with another individual who will further your DJ career. Don’t accept limitations.
Finding a DJ manager is often the first of many steps towards a DJ’s biggest goals. However, hiring one isn’t something to take lightly. Polish your professional persona and use these tips to help guide you to the person to take your DJ business to the next level.