Many times when hiring DJ entertainment for an affair, clients ask, "What do you play?" or "How much do you charge?"
Hiring a disc jockey is far more involved.
Many of my clients are shopping for a disc jockey for the first time in their lives, 
and are not experienced in asking the right questions.
Unfortunately, the Mobile DJ Industry is littered with not-so-savory "fly-by-nights", amateurs and darn-right really mean people.
I encourage you to use these questions to your advantage in order to avoid being taken advantage of.
Administer these questions EVEN IF YOU PLAN TO USE A FRIEND OF THE FAMILY!

The following questions should be helpful:

• Do you provide a written contract?
  It is extremely important to have your booking confirmed in writing. Ask for a written agreement, especially if you are paying an initial retainer. The standard initial payment for entertainment services is 50%.

• Will I get to meet with and consult with my disc jockey?
  If you are expecting a specific entertainer, make sure you get it in writing as well.

• How long have you been in business?
  The best entertainers are typically the most experienced ones...and YES, they are also typically the most expensive.

• Are you Professional?
  We've found that 90% of the time when a "performer" is NOT professional, they tend to not show up to your event...mentally or physically.

• Are you Licensed?
  A professional does everything in his power to BE professional...Including staying on the Government's radar.

• Are You Insured?
  Many responsible business owners carry liability insurance to protect their businesses and the consumer. Many locations are beginning to require proof of liability. Ask for proof of liability insurance. Disc Jockey's receive a Certificate of Liability which can be used as proof.

• Will the DJ coordinate the party and act as Master of Ceremonies?
  The professional entertainer will have no problem coordinating with your other vendors way in advance AND will not wink a bit about speaking in front of a captured audience.

• Does the DJ have the knowledge, skill & talent to handle the proper protocol for my type of affair?
  A professional Disc Jockey will assist you with the planning of your special day. Most professional entertainers will coordinate, emcee and provide the music that you desire. Ask if they have experience with your type of event.

• Will the DJ take requests from my guests?
  A full-time professional DJ will have absolutely no problem taking suggestions from YOU or any of your guests (if you allow it).

• Will the disc jockey be able to provide diversified music selections to please my guests?
  The larger the collection, the better the chance your DJ will be able to accommodate your guests' wishes. 

• How much input will I have in the music selection? Will the DJ be flexible to my needs?
  A versatile Disc Jockey is willing to listen to your suggestions, give you feedback and play from your desired song list. A professional Disc Jockey will also accept the fact you may not want certain songs played. A professional Disc Jockey cannot know everything about your musical preferences and entertainment needs without communication.

• Will the DJ company provide references?
  Check your prospective DJ's references. Ask for feedback surveys. Take the time to read what their previous clients had to say about their unique skills and talents. If they have feedback surveys, but are not willing to share them with you, perhaps their feedback hasn’t been as glowing as they’d like you to believe. Or maybe they arc not currently seeking such feedback from their clients. A Talented Di will he consistently looking for feedback to help them continue to improve their services. Someone who isn’t requesting such feedback may be perfectly content with the level of service they are currently providing. However, their clients might not be as content with their services, so be sure to call their references.
  
  Here are mine: REFERENCES

• Will you be suitably dressed for our occasion?
  Specify the type of apparel that your Disc Jockey is expected to wear for your occasion. Formal attire or coat & tie are the most popular forms of attire. If you are having a "themed" event, make sure your entertainer is informed.

• Do you use the most professional equipment?
  Ask whether your prospective Disc Jockey works with professional audio equipment. If you are not sure, ask for their equipment list and check with a local music dealer or the A.D.J.A. to verify they are using professional-grade sound gear. Remember that professional gear does not guarantee an entertainer's talent or service level, but is simply a tool for building an exceptional event.

• In the event of equipment failure, is there a back-up system readily available?
  Although equipment failure is rare, do you really want your special occasion ruined because your Disc Jockey did not come prepared? It is also important to know if your Disc Jockey has a back-up plan in case of illness or an accident. Members of the local A.D.J.A. have many resources available to them in case of an emergency. You may also reach our Tampa Area A.D.J.A. Hotline number to get a Disc Jockey when you have an emergency. The toll-free number is 866-423-5911.

• Do you belong to a professional organization or trade group?
  Although belonging to an organization or trade group does not guarantee the talent or professionalism of a disc jockey, it may indicate the companies willingness to network, learn and grow. Disc jockeys can learn through local chapter meetings, national DJ conventions and seminars geared toward the entertainment professional.

• Have you committed yourself to follow the ADJA Code of Professional Conduct?
  Any responsible business owner will be committed to living by the ADJA code of Professional Conduct.
  This is just one of the commitments that legitimate entertainment companies will make to you.

If you know you have a conservative audience and would like an entertainer that interacts with your audience, make sure you ask what type of activities or dances your disc jockey can offer. Many disc jockeys simply play music, make announcements and keep things organized and that is OK, unless you are looking for more of a personality. There are exceptional disc jockeys that have acting/improve or musical backgrounds and have a knack for audience participation. These disc jockeys may cost more, but if you need more than music, do your homework and hire someone you feel confident with.

Follow your instincts and don’t be fooled. If your “gut” tells you not to book with a disc jockey because you have doubts or a bad feeling, follow your instincts. The most popular disc jockeys tend to be more expensive so if someone seems well below average, there is probably a reason for it. Do your homework and remember that surveys show that 80% of a party’s success usually falls in the lap of your entertainer. It is a big responsibility, so choose wisely and follow your heart. 

Questions Courtesy Marsdale Productions New Jersey.
Answers by DJ Dr. Drax / President of The American DJ Association
Final paragraphs by DJ Mark Thomas Peace of Awesome Entertainment Southern California.