Chances are this is your first time hiring a Mobile Disc Jockey Service. Many people are tempted to ask "What is your price?" for their first question when interviewing a prospective mobile disc jockey service. This is not the best way to start your interview. Price is important but not the determining factor. You want to get all of the information and the most for your money. One potential DJ may charge less because the company is less experienced or is not as well equipped to handle your function. Some DJ services charge more because their service has a great reputation and may have many bookings. They may also have an exceptional sound and light show and many years of experience. Remember the law of supply and demand. Shop around and look for the best over all package that fits you and your budget. We have put together this list of questions to help you interview prospective Mobile DJ services. We hope you find the professional that is right for you!

1. Do you use professional pro audio gear? What are some of the brand names you use?
   If a Mobile DJ service tells you name brands that you can buy at the local electronic store (Best Buy, Circuit City etc. ) chances are they are not using pro audio gear. Home Hi-Fi gear is not made to hold up to the demands of repeat performances of professional use.
2. Do you provide back up equipment on site in case of an emergency?
   Chances are nothing will happen at your event, but if it does, is your DJ prepared to trouble shoot the problem? Do they have back-up equipment on location to get the party back on track? (They should have extra cables, fuses, basic tools, CD player, amplifier, mixer, etc.).
3. Ask them if their DJ service is insured?
   If the service is professional and reputable, they will be insured. Most DJ services will at least have liability insurance for $1,000,000. Some will also have their equipment insured.
4. Are we guaranteed the DJ of our choice the day of the event?
   Some DJ companies have more than one DJ working for them. While the company may have been in business for years, your DJ may have been hired last week, so be sure who you are getting. Most companies have references on the specific DJ who will be assigned to your event.
5. How many years of experience do you have?
   This is a commonly asked question. The question should be how many events have you performed at? A seasoned DJ will have performed at hundreds of events.
6. May we call three of your references?
   A good Mobile DJ service keeps current references. The list that they provide for you should have at least ten or more names and not be more than six months old. This is a good indicator of the quality you can expect. If you are not comfortable with calling strangers, ask if they have any banquet halls, photographer, or video services that recommend them. Most banquet halls, photographers and videographers work with a lot of different DJ services every weekend.
7. How will you be dressed?
   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. Of course being in Hawaii, most Mobile DJ Services do understand what "Aloha Attire" is.
8. How early will you be Set-Up?
   Most DJ services like to have the opportunity to do a sound and light check before any guests arrive. The last thing you want is a DJ hauling equipment through your receiving line and or guests.
9. Ask if they allow requests from you and your guests?
   Ask them about their policy of how they handle requests. The best DJs will take requests form the audience and work them into their routine. But don't expect the DJ to play every request. An excellent DJ blends requests with songs that will get your guests up and moving.
10. What type of music is available?
    Remember it is not the number of CDs, Tapes or Albums they carry but the content of the media. Ask them how many hit songs they carry and what type of music they have. Ask them how do they stay current with the new hits. A good DJ service will carry a wide variety of music and will have as many as 2000 hits or more. There are professional DJ services like Promo Only and Hot Hits that are available to professional DJs. These services provide the latest hits played on the radio stations with new additions released monthly. Remember that during the dancing segment of your function, a DJ will average 65 to 75 songs, so you should hear nothing but hits all night long. This will keep your dance floor full all night and everyone will have a great time.
11. 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 between 25% and 50%. If you are expecting a specific entertainer, make sure you get it in writing as well.
12. Do you belong to any professional association or trade groups?
    An involved Mobile DJ Service or business shows a willingness to learn, network and share ideas.  Belonging to a professional trade group such as the American Disc Jockey Association reflects a caring attitude and respect for their trade.