Disc jockeys use vinyl records, CDs and digital devices to play music on the radio.
DJs, also known as disc jockeys, are professionals in the radio industry who play recorded music to a particular demographic. Strong candidates for DJs have an interest in radio broadcasting and music, strong communication skills and a pleasant voice. Disc jockeys must interact well with guests and callers, and they need an advanced knowledge of the technology associated with putting on a radio program.
Career
Disc jockeys can play multiple kinds of recorded music, depending on the type of radio station. The station's management determines the music that is played at a given time. DJs also comment on sports, traffic, weather and news, and they tell listeners their personal thoughts. Disc jockeys sometimes interview guests, respond to listeners and manage contests. Some of the equipment that DJs should be familiar with are headphones, computer software, microphones, sound systems and audio mixers. A few of the music media DJs use are computers, digital media devices, CDs and even vinyl records.
Requirements
Most radio stations require that a disc jockey have a high school diploma and some experience in the industry. Many DJs are trained at community and technical colleges. There are various college degrees in the field of broadcasting and communications that can improve your chances of getting a DJ job. Some courses that are helpful are radio broadcasting, communications, public speaking and broadcast journalism. While studying to be a DJ, students can take internships at radio stations. To get their foot in the door, some DJs will take any position at a station in hopes of moving up to being a DJ.
Outlook
The prospects for radio and television announcers are bleak, compared to other positions. Jobs are expected to decline in number by 6 percent from 2008 to 2018, reports the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This is partly a result of the improvement of technology in the industry, the recording of late-night programming and the consolidation of broadcasting companies. To get a position in the industry, DJs sometimes accept volunteer or low-paying positions in hopes of working up to a higher-paying job.
Annual Income
As of December, 2010, the salary of a disc jockey ranged from $23,596 to $40,539, according to a survey conducted by Payscale. This is similar to the figures for the middle 50 percent of all radio and television announcers, compiled by the BLS, which was from $18,824 to $42,245 as of December 2008. The top 10 percent of these announcers made more than $75,754, and the bottom 10 made less than $15,496. Salaries vary for this position as a result of location, experience and the type of DJ job.
Tags: broadcasting communications, disc jockey, Disc jockeys, Disc jockeys, radio broadcasting, radio stations, radio television
