DJOC: Talent Agency & Management Company

Ready to Launch: DJOC to Become Automated with a Twist!

Over the last decade, DJOC has been recognized as the premier provider in professional and talented DJ entertainment for all events in the greater Washington DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia area. That rep has been built upon tireless work and a commitment to excellence. DJOC is a service developed on the professional expertise of celebrity DJ Aaron Couch. He takes an innovative approach with DJOC which encompasses music knowledge, performance experience, deep understanding of the industry, event planning, and client relations. It was recognized early on that in order to provide the most reliable and outstanding service, DJOC would need to prove itself to be more than simply a place to hire a DJ. It would need to be a resource that put the best talent in contact with those looking to hire and vice versa. This meant developing and implementing the concept of “Music Profiling,” which goes far beyond simply reading the crowd. DJOC also worked to produce a vetting system for talent which resulted in an ever expanding roster of high quality DJs suitable for any budget or event. Couch also recognized the need to be able provide entertainment for a variety of events and venues. From corporate functions, to weddings and bar mitzvahs, to birthday celebrations and private parties, to bars, clubs, lounges, and all events and venues in between, DJOC worked to develop a system which would bring appropriate talent to all scenarios.

DJOC operates its service with a strict code of ethics and unfailing commitment to excellence. This is reflected in the way DJOC works with prospective clients in regards to providing entertainment for specific events. DJOC will conference with the client to gain an understanding as to what the client envisions as the ultimate successful event. This includes understanding the theme of an event, the constitution of the prospective audience and the setting. With this knowledge in place, DJOC develops a “Music Profile” for a specific client, event, or venue. DJOC and the client will then work to select DJ entertainment that is a good fit for the event and individuals who can analyze the audience and its response and conduct a performance which will keep even the most diverse crowds satisfied.

Because DJOC has provided high quality entertainment for such a wide variety of events and venue types, their knowledge of the requirements for specific events is unrivaled. They will work to ensure that the entertainment provided will have a clear understanding of the expectations for the event and tailor their performance accordingly.

Also included in this commitment to excellence, is a sincere respect and understanding for the client’s budget. DJOC will not attempt to force talent that may be out of the price range for a client upon them. Nor will they undersell or cut corners on their end. They can be trusted to simply supply the very best talent that is available in regards to the budget.

Equipment is another area in which DJOC maintains its commitment. As the technology for archiving and playing music continues to progress, it is necessary to stay at the forefront of the changing trends which simplify and streamline the process. In addition to the storage and playing of music, DJOC also makes sure to stay on top of the latest advancements in sound equipment to be sure that they have the proper sound system for any room or venue.

DJOC also expects the commitment to excellence which it extends to its clients to be reflected by the stable of talent on their roster and they bring that commitment to their talent from their end. The DJs DJOC chooses to work with undergo a careful vetting process to ensure they are capable not only as talented performers but that they exhibit the level of professionalism that DJOC brings to all its client relation procedures. This means that they possess musical skill and an ability to work the crowd as well as the versatility to excel in any conceivable scenario in which they may be called upon to perform. DJOC also wants to help them manage their scheduling and provide them with the highest amount of work they are capable of handling. Some of these DJs are full time pros who wish to have a full schedule at all times, others have full time jobs and DJOC recognizes this and strives to provide them with work at a frequency they desire. Therefore, DJOC is an invaluable resource for talented DJs to help them balance workload and provide high quality management for DJs looking to fill their schedules. Above all, DJOC will bring their commitment to excellence and expect the same in return from the DJs on their roster.

So it is at this juncture, that DJOC plans to launch an automated system which will make it easier, efficient and tactical for clients to select and to secure the proper DJ entertainment for their event. With the new system in place, clients with budgets from $400 to $4000 will be properly matched with a DJ suitable for their needs while also insuring that the entertainment selected will give 110% in effort, energy and excitement. Each DJ has a unique skill set, level of experience, and characteristics regarding their approach to providing entertainment. Also, each DJ has a set value for their time and effort and DJOC will only put DJ’s in place where not only their talent will shine, but where they feel their value is greatly and highly appreciated. Believe it or not, this is a key element in this equation and one that DJOC, as the agent and manager of the talent, takes very seriously. In knowing this, with this level of diversity of talent, it ensures that the entertainment chosen will be a solid match for the client and the event and users of the system can trust that they will receive the same level of service and commitment to excellence that DJOC is renowned for.

DJOC has continued to expand even in these sometimes trying financial times. This automated system represents the next level of expansion and ensures that DJOC is poised to continue its growth and maintain its reputation for providing the highest quality entertainment solutions. It’s an exciting time at DJOC and the future holds great promise.

Event Planners Are Worth Every Dime!

How Did They Do That?

You remember that event you attended that at some point you just looked around and thought...WOW...this is incredible. The setting was perfect, the decor impeccable. The attendees (yourself included) were feeling good, obviously enjoying themselves, the food and beverage were spot on. The music was happening and people were dancing.

Yeah, you remember. At the end of the night you couldn't help but thinking. Damn...that was a good time.

You made sure to take the time to get with the host or hostess and sincerely thank them. And you should have. But there's someone else you should have thanked if given the opportunity...the event planner.

They are the unsung heroes of every great event.

The sheer number of factors that go into throwing a successful event are numerous enough to make most folks' heads spin. Yet the event planner is called upon to juggle these variables and make it happen. From the location, to the wedding DJ, and all things in between, the event planner must arrange and execute.

Good event planners are worth every single dime and frequently more. They must have administrative abilities, financial knowledge, communication skills and a creative aptitude.

Think about it.

They find the proper venue and prepare a contingency plan if there is a problem (i.e. an outdoor event that could be hampered by weather).

They work with the client and use creative skill to develop and implement a theme for the event.

They help with promotions or invitations.

They put clients in contact with quality design people, food and beverage professionals, staffing groups, and entertainment agencies such as DJOCfor music.

When you consider the details each one of these factors entails you begin to have a glimmer as to just what an incredible feat an event planner is required to pull off.

The best event planners are well connected in all these facets and have vendors and service providers on lock for all scenarios. For these reasons the event planner should be trusted to assess the client's needs and desires and put together an event that is exceptional.

Event planners also understand the limitations of mediocre budgets and the potential of large budgets.

If funds are limited, a great event planner will look for areas where costs can be cut to a degree without sacrificing too much quality as well as maximizing in the areas which may be of particular importance.

Conversely, a large budget in the hands of a solid event planner can make a client's dreams come true, sometimes even beyond expectations because these planners take the time to listen to the client, assess the budget, then work tirelessly to ensure that every last detail is taken care of to the best of their abilities.

So the next time you're at that great event, and you're looking around, noticing how everything from the venue, to the design, to the bartender, to the wedding DJ, all seems perfectly coordinated, and working in concert, remember that you have the event planner to thank for the great time.

Listening & Giving The Client The Goods

Just What You're Looking For

When hiring someone, an employer takes time to interview the potential employee. This allows them to learn more about the individual, discuss their qualifications, learn about their skills, what their strengths are and areas to develop. This way both the employer and employee have some expectations upon which to gauge performance.

Although it may seem like a forgone conclusion, those looking to hire a DJ might not even think to take steps similar to those they'd take when hiring an employee so when booking a corporate DJ they need to consider what it is they really want and how they can evaluate the quality of the entertainment they are receiving.

That is why working with professionals like those at DJOC can prove to be such a valuable asset.

They take an innovative approach by fusing deep knowledge of music with that of the industry and by constantly striving to learn more about what the client is seeking.

One key question asked when consulting with a potential client is: what does "good" look like to the client? That is...what's their overall vision of a successful event.

This exercise provokes thought on the part of the client and allows DJOCto develop a foundation upon which to build.

Once the initial foundation is in place DJOC will bring its extensive experience and knowledge to build upon the structure. They have put on innumerable successful events and the client can take comfort in knowing that the corporate DJ's they are hiring got to where they are by operating as consummate professionals. In every aspect of performance, preparation, and equipment professionals bring the goods.

This is what sets DJOC apart.

There is no question that there are plenty of performers who are talented individuals with deep knowledge of many genres and sub-genres. They may have professional equipment and be responsible when it comes to arriving on time and setting up properly. But do they take the time to listen and consult with their clients to develop a relationship and build a foundation upon which a successful event can be structured?

Unfortunately, this is often not the case. On both ends. Some performers think that they have it all figured out and their vision as the talent is more important than the client's. Conversely, sometimes a client may preconceived notions about performance which are incorrect.

With DJOC these pitfalls are eliminated because the experience level and knowledge on both ends is superb. The talent is precisely that..."talented" and DJOC consults with the client well ahead of time to understand the vision for success and implement and ultimately execute a plan.

At the end of the day both parties want the event to be a success. They want the crowd to be entertained and satisfied. Conferencing ahead of time allows both parties to discuss the event and develop some reasonable expectations. This type of communication occurs in nearly every other business scenario and hiring a corporate DJ should be no different.

The Importance of a DJ For Your Corporate Event

Don't Worry, I'm a Professional

You put in the time and effort getting your education. You got the job and worked hard to learn and grow in the position. You steadily moved up due to your diligence and commitment. You have earned your designation as a professional.

A professional corporate DJ is essentially no different. They started with a spark of interest in the music and explored it. They listened and learned and developed a collection. They made an initial investment in equipment, continually upgraded and stayed abreast of the ever changing trends in technology. They probably got some of their first gigs DJ-ing at house parties or small venues. They honed their skills and moved up to bigger venues and events. They too, should be designated as professionals. They've earned it.

This is their job and they take it very seriously. They are expected to perform at a high level and expect this from themselves as well.

Just as a corporate professional is expected to be punctual, informed, and prepared, a professional corporate DJ knows all the components required to perform their job.

The best take steps to continually evolve and grow as professionals. They take the time to become acquainted with their clientele and what they expect in the form of music. They meet or conference ahead of time to become familiar with what types of music are the most suitable for events. They check out venues to learn about acoustics in different rooms and what may be required as far as equipment goes. After all this preparation, on the day of the event they will arrive when expected and allow ample time to assemble the equipment and prepare for any contingencies. They know that scenarios can develop on the fly and they are prepared to deal with them. Oh, you need to use that wall outlet for the additional lighting? No, problem I've got another longer power cable so I can use that outlet across the room. There's going to be some people that will be hanging out outside? No problem. I'll run an extra speaker out there so everyone can hear the music.

This is all before they even perform.

High level DJ's got to where they are by having serious skills. They have an idea of what to expect from the event. As the event progresses they are constantly monitoring the audience and its reaction so as to choose the best songs to play at the appropriate times. They're entertainers.

That's why the best corporate DJ's want to work corporate events. They recognize that these events are comprised of professional people and it will be a mutual respect situation. They value these clients because they know that they are working in a capacity where the other aspects of the event are well planned and executed in the fashion in which they have prepared and executed. Finally, they know that by being part of successful events increases the chances of being hired again by the same clients, ensuring future work and greater success.

Book Now For Your Corporate Christmas Party!

The Most Wonderful Time (and Party) of the Year

Mangers and HR personnel in charge of holiday parties have a lot on their proverbial plate when it comes to planning the event. One area they can get a jump on is providing the entertainment.

They don't want to get stuck plugging in the iPod, pulling out the Christmas music compilation CD's, or worse yet tuning into the holiday radio station playing the same old songs.

Hiring a corporate DJ can alleviate the stress of worrying about the entertainment factor and planning ahead by booking early can ensure locking down quality talent at a solid rate.

Run DMC, Paul McCartney, Bing Crosby, or All Three

In the case of the Christmas party, managers and HR folks are required to play the role of event planner, a role they may not be terribly familiar with.

However, they already possess a major advantage: they know their audience extremely well. The audience will essentially be made up of their employees who they work with on a regular basis, and their employees' friends and families. Using this knowledge, they can make some determinations regarding the music entertainment.

In charge of a hip, young upstart tech company? The employees may want Run DMC's"Christmas in Hollis Queens." Are the majority of the employees a bit more seasoned? Maybe they want Paul McCartney's "A Wonderful Christmas Time." Or are the employees the wise elders that prefer Bing doing "White Christmas" and other traditional tunes?

There might be a combination of all these and the entertainment may require versatility to cater to all these tastes. Fortunately, good managers and HR people know their employees and quality talent knows how to satisfy the crowd.

DJOC Provides Solutions

Managers and HR people can take advantage of resources like DJOC(http://www.discjockeysoncall.com/index.html), to create a music profile of their employees as well as researching DJ's to find the best fit for their events.

Of course another important factor is the cost. Fortunately, those looking to get a jump on their planning can reap the rewards of booking a corporate DJ early.

During the holidays, quality talent will have full schedules and booking at the last minute can be extremely difficult and very costly. DJOC offers some early booking packages that will help offset some of the cost and ensure quality talent is already in place well ahead of time.

Another consideration should be which day/night of the week they want to hold the Christmas party. Weekend rates are always higher and the best talent is often in high demand on those nights to perform at clubs, bars, and lounges. Choosing to hold the party on a weeknight might be the right decision as it can ensure that quality talent is available at the best possible rate.

The best managers and HR personnel expect the best from their employees year round. They can return the favor by throwing a great event to show their appreciation. Using a resource like DJOC (http://www.discjockeysoncall.com/index.html), can make it easy to hire a high quality corporate DJ.

How To HIre A Bar, Lounge, Club DJ

Hey Mr. DJ! vs. Excuse me, Bartender?

Club, bar, and lounge owners need to be aware of certain factors when hiring a club DJ. One of the most important of these factors is the importance in remembering they are hiring talent, not just a service.

Services are aspects that need to be provided in an efficient business-like manner that focus on the task at hand and completing it in a professional manner. You ask the bartender for a drink and expect that shortly you will be provided with the said drink accurately prepared.

Owners who choose to view venue music as a service are essentially looking at it in the manner of the bar tending analogy: people want music, now lets quickly supply it.

A DJ does so much more than simply supplying the music. Jukeboxes and satellite radio services can "supply" music but is this entertainment? Certainly not.

Owners who can begin to delineate between DJ's as hired talent and not just a service will quickly learn to appreciate what the DJ can do for the venue.

Music Profiles on DJOC-An Invaluable Resource for Owners

So the owner now recognizes that the DJ is providing talent and not simply a service...what's the next step? Finding talent that is an ideal match for the venue.

Savvy owners already know their clientele and what the clientele is looking for. This knowledge explains and informs everything they already do in ensuring their venue is attractive to its clientele. From lighting and design to menu and beverage options.

Choosing talent should be no different. Is the venue a chilled out lounge that needs some music that enhances the mood while not detracting from the atmosphere? A busy bar packed with college kids on the weekends? A high energy dance club with a monster sound system? A resource like DJOC (http://www.discjockeysoncall.com) is invaluable for DC area owners in finding a club DJ.

Developing a "Music Profile" makes it simple to find talent that is suitable for the venue. Just as owners have paid attention to the clientele in providing the services mentioned above, providing talent and entertainment should be suited to the venue and clientele.

Understand the clientele and what they are looking for in entertainment. Focus on the dynamics of specific nights throughout the week and what considerations must be factored in when making the decision regarding entertainment.

Study the profiles of DJ's available and determine which ones are most likely to be suitable.

Putting It All Together

So an owner now recognizes the difference between music as a service vs. talent/entertainment. They've taken the time to study the clientele's requirements and feel they have a profile for their venue. They've checked out some DJ's they think might be a good fit.

It's time to put it together.

Contact DJOC ((http://www.discjockeysoncall.com) and discuss the options. Keep in mind the factors reviewed above so as to make a decision that will benefit the venue and provide you with a talented and professional club DJ that is perfectly suited to your needs.

Service Value Part One

In the past DJOC had an ongoing battle in defending our prices. Potential customers usually call with their primary concern being our price. This question is asked without us knowing what type of event, where it is taking place and most importantly, the talent level desired in a DJ.

Over the past several months DJOC has been going through a restructuring. We looked at what clients needed and wanted in order to feel good about selecting a DJ. Speaking with over twenty brides with weddings either taking place during the latter months of 2011 and the earlier months of 2012, many of them have become wary, or should I say skeptical, over what they read on message boards and review sites. "Everyone with ratings have outstanding ratings!". "No one has anything lower than (the top rating)", stated one client. So I asked them to tell me, "What does a good DJ for your wedding look like?"

Everyone had a different criterion for making their selection. The one time, aside from price, that was consistent throughout our survey was the need for the DJ to be professional. Talent was not an immediate requirement. In fact, many who we surveyed stated that meeting with the DJ to "see if his or her style fits what we want" was a necessity. So I then asked, why is that the case and more than half said, "because I read that in a bridal magazine".

Let me say this, bridal magazines know just as much about entertainment and the process of producing great entertainment as DJ does about being a world class photographer. Meaning, they rarely know all that is involved in insuring that the entertainment is above and beyond expectations.

Continuing the discussion with my focus group I presented them with the following questions:

• Is having a talented DJ with an extensive resume a luxury
• Should your entertainment have full knowledge of the venue
• Aside from not showing up, what is your biggest fear about the entertainment

To the majority of them, having a talented DJ with an extensive resume, was merely a second thought. Many looked at the reputation of the company via their website and the guidance of a bridal or party site. They were more willing to take the word of an event planner or another vendor with whom they had already secured and had built a level of comfort in their product and knowledge of their event.

They also wanted to make sure that the DJ had performed at the venue previously. Why? Because the magazine's said this is important. Let's be truthful, with today's technology and the ability to pick up the phone and talk to the manager of a venue, about the venue, this should never be a requirement.

But it is and to top it off, they just want to be sure that the DJ knows how to read the crowd. Now, I am going to say this as delicately as I can without sounding harsh:

ALL OF THAT IS 100% BS!

When securing entertainment for your event, they should be professional, talented, ask questions and above all else, have an agenda on getting to know you. The events that are successful and the energy is great is because the entertainment knew the crowd. They discover their likes and dislikes the night of the event. It was done prior. If it is a club, we get to know the crowd, the people who like the scene and what makes them dance prior by sitting, observing and embracing the culture and ambiance of that venue.

Clubs, lounges and bars are marketed towards specific demographics, i.e., advertisement through specific radio stations. With a wedding we have got to build a music profile and get to know the client so that we understand what they mean when they say 80's and 90's and nothing cheesy. There is so much to do prior to the event that insures a successful event that it carries with it an element that most people fail to recognize: VALUE!

As a consumer, you have to take the time to ask yourself questions. Questions that we, the entertainment provider, should be able to answer quickly and clearly. 1) Why is your price as presented and 2) What do you do to get to know me and my musical preferences?

An entertainer's style and approach should never be a question because 1) You know what you like and 2) Once you have explained what you like, they should be talented and versatile enough to be able to do your job and professional enough to say no, I am not the entertainment for you.

IT'S YOUR EVENT, YOU SHOULD GET WHAT YOU WANT!

When looking at references of any entertainer, have a list of questions for the reference that addresses the entertainers personality, ethics and did everyone dance. Be sure to know what the client preferred in terms of music genres and be sure to ask how flexible they were in their working within your means. All of this determines the value of the entertainment along with one other key item, EXPERIENCE!

The bottom line, what a DJ does prior to the event, time spent and process preparing, their talent, resume, the company's infrastructure and code of ethics all pay a part in the value of the DJ. If they are able to convey this to you in a clear and concise manner, then their price will be more than justified