Recommended? If your prospective DJ/MC was recommended to you by a banquet hall manager or caterer, you can be 98% certain of solid service. Caterers and hall managers have found out first-hand who are the best DJs. They know what works well, and what doesn't. Following a recommendation, it is wise to cross-examine your prospective DJ/MC, but probably you will only need to determine if he/she can handle the special extras that you envision.

The caterers and hall managers know that your DJ will arrive early to set up, before guests arrive, ready to start on time. They know that your DJ will be appropriately attired, congenial, flexible, easy to work with, charming, focused on pleasing the guests, and on pleasing those who hired him/her. They know that your DJ/MC will maintain comfortable volume levels, by regularly going out and checking the sound. They know that your DJ/MC has a huge comprehensive music library, and will play the right tunes for the right moments, keepng the crowd going if that is their mood, or taking it down for a mellow moment. They know that the DJ/MC will take requests happily, play them promptly, and honor any "must play - don't play" lists prepared beforehand. They will have seen your DJ/MC handle unexpected situations comfortably. They know that your DJ/MC uses the microphone to call attention to the party guests, and not to him/herself. They have seen he/she coordinate with bridal party members on correct pronounciation of names to be announced: he/she cares about your guests! They know that he/she has pro equipment, and knows how to get great sound. If your DJ plays at Cornell University, then you can be certain that he/she is fully insured: Cornell requires it.

Cold-calling? But, if you are cold-calling from a web-search, or the yellow pages, what to do? I assume that you have already booked your hall: you have a date. First, you need to know that your prospective DJ/MC has that date available. If your caterer/ahll manager does not know your propsective DJ/MC, you might want then want to check on issues mentioned in the paragraph above. References will help you, but your own sense of personality will be a good guide. Will he/she meet with you, at no charge, to help you decide?

Below is a reprint of some guidelines from American Disc Jockey Association. It may help give you a better sense on the hiring issue.

The ADJA strongly recommends that you ask the following questions of any Disc Jockey service that you are considering hiring.

1. Are you insured? Can you supply me with proof of liability? 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. 2. Will you be willing to play requests and discuss music ahead of time? 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. 3. Do you use 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. 4. Do you provide backup equipment at my event? 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 A.D.J.A. have many resources available to them in case of an emergency. You may also reach our Hotline number to get a Disc Jockey when you have an emergency. The toll-free number is 888-723-5776. Booking a reliable Disc Jockey is a very important decision for the success of your party.   Selecting a Disc Jockey who is an active member of the American Disc Jockey Association will provide you with the confidence that you have selected a trained professional. A.D.J.A. members are more likely to be involved with other Disc Jockey's who can help them out with an unexpected situation. 5. Does the Disc Jockey know the proper etiquette for your type of party? 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. 6. How much time do you allow for set-up? Punctuality is a necessity. Most Disc Jockey's arrive at least one hour prior to the start time you've given them. 7. 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%. If you are expecting a specific entertainer, make sure you get it in writing as well. 8. 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. An A.D.J.A. member is responsible to the Association, as well as to the customer.