Every year I attend or speak at multiple DJ conferences around the United States (and recently I wrote about them all here). At these industry-focused events, not only do I get to meet and network with DJs from all over the world, but I also make it a point to maximize my time and learn some new things. For example, I attend every seminar I can, take quality notes, and try to implement the things as I get back to my North Carolina office.

Before attending your next (or first) DJ conference, refer to the list below and make the most of your experience!

1. Come Prepared

Load up on business cards! You are going to need these. Some of the best “nuggets” or takeaways from DJ shows are discussed in the hallways between seminars or at night. Don’t walk away from a conversation and not exchange cards!

2. Research the Gear

You never want to hit the trade show floor and start buying everything in sight. Do your research online before the show and then once you arrive seek out those specific items. Put your hands on those turntables, DJ on that new controller everyone is talking about, listen to those new speakers, and THEN make your purchasing decisions.

3. Take Notes

When you go to workshops or seminars, bring an old school pen and paper or your iPad/laptop with you. When the speaker hits a nerve, make sure to jot that down. You will be flooded with information during the week. It’s just not possible to remember it all.

4. Be Social

Hanging out in your hotel room is NOT an option. As I said up top, some of the best takeaways are going to be shared by your fellow DJs. Even if you go to a conference solo, get out there and meet some other DJs who share your passion!

5. Buy the Speaker’s Stuff

If you see a seminar that “speaks” to you, and that speaker is out in the hallway afterwards selling a book or video on that subject, BUY IT! Don’t even think twice. These people have spent years in this business. If they are selling a product, it’s definitely going to help you grow your DJ company.

6. Use What You’ve Learned

When you get back home, sort out your notes. You should put the most important ones at the top and then implement them into your company! Notes are just notes unless you do something with them!

I’m looking forward to meeting some of you at an upcoming DJ conference. DJ Expo in Atlantic City perhaps? Let us know if you plan to attend any DJ conferences this year and see you there!

About Joe Bunn

Joe started his DJ career at the age of 14 in his hometown of Wilson, NC. He did shows all throughout high school, college at UNC-Chapel Hill, and eventually moved to Raleigh, NC in the late 90s where he started Bunn DJ Company. The company grew from a couple of DJs to 15 of the area’s best mobile DJs. Over the past few years, Bunn DJ Company has expanded to Charleston, SC, Charlotte, NC, and Richmond, VA. The company performs at over 800 weddings a year and another 400 private, corporate, and charity events.

In addition, Joe is a writer for many national DJ publications such as Disc Jockey News, Mobile Beat Magazine, and DJ Times. He has given seminars at Mobile Beat Las Vegas, Wedding MBA, DJ Times Expo, local/regional organizations, NC State and UNC-Chapel Hill. Joe has also been hired by DJs all over the world to help their businesses in every aspect from branding to sales.