The new DJA are you having a laugh guys

[Have a disco]

As copied from their website

Full Membership – £325, less any discount from promo code. For the D.J. who takes themselves and their career seriously. The D.J.A. has been set-up by D.J.s for D.J.s, so we have catered for every aspect of your profession. This is an exclusive package specially tailored for the professional D.J. that you will not find anywhere else.


OUCH that hurts just whom is going to join at this extorsionate rate ???

How about a basic package rate added to the site for mobile DJ's which honestly outnumber all the professionals 20 to 1 if not more why do I feel that this site is just another site trying to rake money in from wannabees:bang: Strikes me that these guys are just behaving like a rogue model agency expecting guys as professional as us to pay through the nose???

Please note there is a student rate and 2 other rates of package but ouch even they hurt £170 with the discount and another package for venues with no price which sounds very expensive checkout the site and the benefits does it seem worth joining??? http://www.thedja.com

[Nathan Fleming]

Makes NADJ membership at £50 seem excellent value for money.

[ian8limelight]

Makes NADJ membership at £50 seem excellent value for money.


Hear, hear.

[mikeee]

They have been around for a year or two now.
There is a very subtle difference, they are aiming for DJ's that will work anywhere in the world, not just the UK. A lot of what they offer is financial based, Accountance, Insurance (of all type), savings (just to make sure you have something left at the end of the year), Travel so on and so forth. I would say their membership fees are more akin to that of a professional body (BECTU, Equity and the MU). Now use your imaginations, if the NADJ charged that, just think what they could offer.

If your interested give Tony a bell, I'm sure he will be happy to talk to you.

[Flex]

I think the subscription fee is too high as well. Although I have seriously given it some thought. Ive been a member of NADJ for two years now and can honestly say other than having the logo on the website to add a bit of gravitas, I not at all sure if my membership has added anything to my business. The attraction of being a member of an association that potentially has some 'heavy hitters' within the industry is quite appealing. There are only five members of NADJ in Scotland just now and most of the bigger outfits are not represented amongst them. I'm pretty sure that DJA will attract more Scottish members than that. I think that a membership that spans the various DJ disciplines is a good thing and will strengthen the industry's image amongst the public. I'm pretty sure that as a body it will have a stronger voice because of this when dealing with issues such as digital licencing etc. I for one would pay more than £50 for NADJ membership if it A) improved its membership in Scotland B) Raised its National profile C) Improved its membership benefits. I hope I don't sound like I'm bashing the NADJ committee, as I know they work very hard and are passionate about improving the industry. However I do believe that there is a bigger opportunity to be had and at the moment the DJA look like they might get to the prize first.

Controversial Moi?

[mikeee]

The DJA, is aimed more towards the club DJ, who earns up to 10x more than a mobile, so the fees are cheap.

I don't think your knocking the NADJ. All organisation need comments good and bad, it's how they use the information that counts.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

The DJA, is aimed more towards the club DJ, who earns up to 10x more than a mobile, so the fees are cheap.



Are you sure?

Do you have figures to back that up?

I'd be very interested.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I think the subscription fee is too high as well. Although I have seriously given it some thought. Ive been a member of NADJ for two years now and can honestly say other than having the logo on the website to add a bit of gravitas, I not at all sure if my membership has added anything to my business. The attraction of being a member of an association that potentially has some 'heavy hitters' within the industry is quite appealing. There are only five members of NADJ in Scotland just now and most of the bigger outfits are not represented amongst them. I'm pretty sure that DJA will attract more Scottish members than that. I think that a membership that spans the various DJ disciplines is a good thing and will strengthen the industry's image amongst the public. I'm pretty sure that as a body it will have a stronger voice because of this when dealing with issues such as digital licencing etc. I for one would pay more than £50 for NADJ membership if it A) improved its membership in Scotland B) Raised its National profile C) Improved its membership benefits. I hope I don't sound like I'm bashing the NADJ committee, as I know they work very hard and are passionate about improving the industry. However I do believe that there is a bigger opportunity to be had and at the moment the DJA look like they might get to the prize first.

Controversial Moi?

I don't think the DJA will get to the prize first as they obviously don't understand what all DJs earn and what they think.

[Flex]

Darren, nobody knows what mobile djs earn or care to be fair. Otherwise people wouldnt phone round and then book the cheapest disco they can find.

Actually I'm starting a full time undergraduate course in September so I might just take up their student membership, its half the price. Ya boo sucks. Ill then go and get a residency in some basement bar and play obscure funk but only if its from least known soul label ever to come out of Ohio. I will just be able to stand and nod my head sagely to 12 min long sax solos. Nice.

[CRAZY K]

Darren, nobody knows what mobile djs earn or care to be fair. Otherwise people wouldnt phone round and then book the cheapest disco they can find.

Actually I'm starting a full time undergraduate course in September so I might just take up their student membership, its half the price. Ya boo sucks. Ill then go and get a residency in some basement bar and play obscure funk but only if its from least known soul label ever to come out of Ohio. I will just be able to stand and nod my head sagely to 12 min long sax solos. Nice.

Luckily round the Midlands/London not everyone books the cheapest entertainment in town as they want quality and entertainment value --in my experience recently :D

When your doing that Residency just make sure you charge 10x the Mobile rate:Laugh: :Laugh: :Laugh: :Laugh:

CRAZY K

[soundtracker]

I think the subscription fee is too high as well. Although I have seriously given it some thought. Ive been a member of NADJ for two years now and can honestly say other than having the logo on the website to add a bit of gravitas, I not at all sure if my membership has added anything to my business. The attraction of being a member of an association that potentially has some 'heavy hitters' within the industry is quite appealing. There are only five members of NADJ in Scotland just now and most of the bigger outfits are not represented amongst them. I'm pretty sure that DJA will attract more Scottish members than that. I think that a membership that spans the various DJ disciplines is a good thing and will strengthen the industry's image amongst the public. I'm pretty sure that as a body it will have a stronger voice because of this when dealing with issues such as digital licencing etc. I for one would pay more than £50 for NADJ membership if it A) improved its membership in Scotland B) Raised its National profile C) Improved its membership benefits. I hope I don't sound like I'm bashing the NADJ committee, as I know they work very hard and are passionate about improving the industry. However I do believe that there is a bigger opportunity to be had and at the moment the DJA look like they might get to the prize first.

Controversial Moi?

Not bothered about controversial - You say your NADJ membership has not added anything to your business, what is it that you are looking for? I've been asking for suggestions as to what extra member benefits are wanted/needed for 12 months - I've had very little input! At the AGM we asked for questions from the membership - we didn't get any - how many e-mails have I had from NADJ members in 12 months regarding benefits? NONE.
The voice that we have with the Licensing authorities is heard - they are acting on our suggestions albeit rather slowly. Our National Profile has been raised significantly following our Trade Show - the response that we have had from manufacturers etc has been phenomenal, and we will be capitalising on this. The number of membership enquiries and people interested in starting local branches is gathering momentum. Interesting that you would be willing to pay more for your membership- every week on one forum or another I have to justify £45 quid! What do I get for my money! Goes out the cry. The marvelous thing is, as in most things in life- you get back what you put in!

[soundtracker]

Are you sure?

Do you have figures to back that up?

I'd be very interested.
So would I, in my experience, apart from the absolute top end, club DJs are totally exploited. I have a mate that earns the same level of fees as me, but has to travel to places like Nottingham, Derby, Watford and Swansea, and playing to 1000 people to achieve it - the guys locally who do 10.00pm to 2.00am get between £75 & £125.00! I'm sure they'll be delighted to sign up!

[mikeee]

So would I, in my experience, apart from the absolute top end, club DJs are totally exploited. I have a mate that earns the same level of fees as me, but has to travel to places like Nottingham, Derby, Watford and Swansea, and playing to 1000 people to achieve it - the guys locally who do 10.00pm to 2.00am get between £75 & £125.00! I'm sure they'll be delighted to sign up!

OK, look into the DJA, the people behind it, and their "real" target membership, whilst, as a business, they will take anyone, I can say that they (did) specialise in the guys that get flown out to a venue / country to do a 1 hour "guest" spot, so 10x more is not that far off the mark. And as an asociation, they will probably train up and coming DJ's to be the next Pete Tong, Norman Cook or whoever.

But you have made a very interesting point in as much you state that guys you know only get between £75.00 to £125.00 - so where has it all gone wrong, that money is on a par with the 1980's. In 1981 I used to do some work at Henrey's Niteclub, Burnham Beeches Nr Slough, it paid in the Ann Bolyn Bar (8.00 to 11.00) between £30 and £70 depending on DJ and night, in the main club (9.00 to 11.00 warmup) £20.00 / £40.00, and (11.00 to 2.00am) £90 to £120.00. Ragamuffins in Camberley was paying £120.00 a night. In 1978, La Masion Royale, Bournmouth 8.00 to 2.00, £50.00 a night. So I ask the question again - Where has it gone wrong now.

[soundtracker]

When I used to be a foreign clerk in a high street bank, I was responsible for paying Juliana's DJs and they were on similar amounts- except those working abroad! So I know where you're coming from, and I was picking up £45/50 in the late seventies for pub/club walk ins. I was recently offered an 80s night on a thursday in a local club- and they were willing to go to £100! Some of the guys down in South Wales are struggling to get more than £80/100.

Maison Royale Mikee - that brings back some memories!!!!

[PropellerHeadCase]

Where has it gone wrong now.


A near endless supply of bedroom DJs who are good enough for the night (and the money) but not good enough for a residency, all fighting each other to get that measly poundage. Market economy, eh?

[mikeee]

A near endless supply of bedroom DJs who are good enough for the night (and the money) but not good enough for a residency, all fighting each other to get that measly poundage. Market economy, eh?

Whilst I would love to agree with you, and yes it is a problem, do we use the "Bedroom Boys" as an excuse?? Lets shift some of the blame on to....The Mobile Disco, there I said it.

People come into this industry for lots of different reasons, They like the music (not money), They like kit (not the money), a little bit extra (the money) and any combination of the above. A lot of DJ's work during the day and do this as a second job (please note: Not hobby), so charging say £250.00 keeps them in a "Comfort Zone". The daytime job pays the mortgage etc ect. It's a second job, don't really want to pay tax if I can help it, buy more kit, or a new vehicle. The money is for "perks".

What if, we now take the DJ out of the "Comfort Zone", and say, right you now have to pay your mortgage, utilities, food, clothes etc ect out of your DJ'ing, I wonder 1) How many would give up, 2) How much the "average" price would go up by, 3) How many would carry on, but squeal because they can't afford to live.

I would like to point out that this is my generalisation, and is no way intended to cast doubt on any members of this, or other forum, association or knitting circle.

I think the word is - discuss.

[soundtracker]

I think I agree with you both, and its probably a combination of all of these factors, plus greedy club owners knowing they can get away with paying peanuts as the wannabees are just happy to have somewhere to play on their journey to become the next Pete Tong!

[rob1963]

So would I, in my experience, apart from the absolute top end, club DJs are totally exploited. I have a mate that earns the same level of fees as me, but has to travel to places like Nottingham, Derby, Watford and Swansea

Absolutely!

Many years ago, I did some club work.

The money was more or less the same as my mobile work, except I had to work until 2 or 3am!

[flatliners]

talking of pete tong he started out as a mobile dj along with alot of the pro club djs i think the legend norman j did aswell as did x danny rampling

[rob1963]

Darren, nobody knows what mobile djs earn or care to be fair. Otherwise people wouldnt phone round and then book the cheapest disco they can find.

The vast majority of people DON'T phone around & book the cheapest disco they can find!

Otherwise, those of us who charge at least several hundred pounds would have gone out of business AGES ago!

[rob1963]

talking of pete tong he started out as a mobile dj along with alot of the pro club djs i think the legend norman j did aswell as did x danny rampling

Flatliners...what about Techno T? :p

[Have a disco]

The vast majority of people DON'T phone around & book the cheapest disco they can find!

Otherwise, those of us who charge at least several hundred pounds would have gone out of business AGES ago!

Rob I hate to say your in the wrong like people whom shop in discount shops in this day and age Im afraid to say people shop around for the cheapest quality disco about, usually below £150, and then to top it off most DJ's working for a bigger mobile is only likely to be paid £60 tops per nights work say 7pm - 11.30pm in general

Even around where I live most DJ's working in pub venues are only getting abou £60 - 80 for a 1am finish the agencies or disco owners have there cut ontop for the gear hire and or DJ hire

It still leads to the basics that we are still being underpaid for providing expertise of playing and mixing music

But Back on track I cant see The DJA working unless your one of the top 300 DJ's whom are just going to laugh at joining something like this site, just to gain another feather in there cap. I dont thinks so its aimed at wannabees whom want to join this rank of professionals whom earn 1'000 to 50'000 a night. I feel that this site although very professional looking and provides many benefits I feel the NADJ does much the same or could do exactly the same for £100 a year. and no Im not joining NADJ. I like being an outside voice I may join upon merger of all local Disco associations to a one bigger voiced union

[soundtracker]

Rob I hate to say your in the wrong like people whom shop in discount shops in this day and age Im afraid to say people shop around for the cheapest quality disco about, usually below £150, and then to top it off most DJ's working for a bigger mobile is only likely to be paid £60 tops per nights work say 7pm - 11.30pm in general



Absolute nonsense - I hear this rubbish all of the time - The same DJ has told me 3 times in 3 weeks - you'll never get £200 for a disco around here! What he means is, He'll never get it! and he won't because his mind set is wrong - he's fishing in the wrong pools. This is where you would benefit from NADJ - training and education is a vital part of what we do - we've now got half a dozen DJs in Merthyr Tydfil who were on £50 a gig, going out for between £200 & £300. and 12 months ago they told me it would never happen.

[Have a disco]

come live in Haverhill for a while please LOL

Look I know what your saying soundtracker I am standing my own ground on price alone I will not go out for less than £200 a night for even the smallest set up but there are plenty whom will work for less and Im not going any further than saying that we know each area has the same blooming problem. These guys will do it and the disappear then come back again and again. take A-Plus for an example???

I dont need training or education - I have worked all around and within the industry and nothing has changed in 20 years to say the least, all except technology..... Money wise its dog eat dog and most people don't just make a living from running there disco alone, most actually have to hold down another job to survive

[Danno13]

I must say thats an incredibly arrogant stance to take, if you think there's nothing else for you to learn about the industry. The education that can help push prices up is how to firstly aim at the right market, and then how to sell yourself so the client is sure you're the right person for the job and doesn't need to phone anyone else to get quotes.

And Haverhill is almost in the home counties for christ sake! So plenty of people around, or within a reasonable travelling distance, that can afford more than 200 for a disco! Compare that to Pete whose based in Hereford, which i think is one of the least and most sparsly populated counties in the country.

Anyway, this argument seems to go round and round, and you never listen to anyone, so don't know why i'm even bothering to add my 2p.

[Have a disco]

I must say thats an incredibly arrogant stance to take, if you think there's nothing else for you to learn about the industry. The education that can help push prices up is how to firstly aim at the right market, and then how to sell yourself so the client is sure you're the right person for the job and doesn't need to phone anyone else to get quotes. This argument seems to go round and round though, and you never listen to anyone, so don't know why i'm even bothering to add my 2p.

Your 2p worth accepted DANNO and I have learnt things just from this site upon its set up to now, BUT not had to pay any money to join here. I have a right to be arrogant as I use to work for BOWATER ZENITH (glazing) and completely understand sales techniques to a very high pitch level. In general you can lead a horse to water, but you can not force a horse to drink. The same ethic applies to potential hires of a disco most just want a price and are not interested in the speel or the show most just want a DISCO, Its about cornering / guiding the potential customer into your ring fenced area of guaranteed sales

Now please back to the original point at hand about the DJA by all means start up another thread about the other issues that have arisen

[rob1963]

As copied from their website

Full Membership – £325, less any discount from promo code. For the D.J. who takes themselves and their career seriously. The D.J.A. has been set-up by D.J.s for D.J.s, so we have catered for every aspect of your profession. This is an exclusive package specially tailored for the professional D.J. that you will not find anywhere else.


£325?

No thanks.

I can think of better ways to spend that sort of money!

[Have a disco]

Great minds think alike ROB LOL

[Danno13]

most just want a price and are not interested in the speel or the show most just want a DISCO

Well if this is what you're finding then it is the "aiming at the right market" that you need to work on.

People booking discos in nice hotels for their weddings are not looking for the cheapest, they're looking for the DJ who can do what they want and make the night for them.

Cue excuses that all the hotels are tied up by agencies....

[Have a disco]

Hello Not everyone gets into all the plush hotels where the prices go through the roof for a basic wedding, alot of my rivals have sayed in the same RESIDENCIES at these places for over 20 years, and trying to remove them is like trying to remove a mollusc. I have even worked for them by customer request, its because they are willing to do anything to hold onto them and price squeexing comes into the equation I afraid. The average joe disco hirer still looks for the best price and most dont give a hoot about PLI & Pat certificates even though I have them. 90% of the time its about a last minute decision, which with like weddings the price will be a major selling point.

You can aim your disco at any number of markets but to be busy you are better to have a finger in all sectors that work for your business. I would rather be working every weekend at my rates than theirs. But having work is better than none at all ???? So even I must accept some bookings at a lower rate than have no money in my back pocket???

Remember the averaged priced wedding total costs is now about 21,000 yet we are still the most overlooked item the average wedding disco price is between £210 and 250 this figure is obviously based on hotel charges, as for private funtion rooms I now go no lower than £250 locally. My last 3 quotes were all within £300 and £350. I am targeting everything in the right direction. But I know of 16 other businesses in my own town of 30,000

[Danno13]

I give up!

[Nathan Fleming]

We don't have much of a problem with window shoppers, we get the odd one and when you do it's easy to spot if it's worth going into things in any detail with them.

Usually if they are not interested in letting you gather the required information to be able to quote then they are not going to want to hear the price.

Simply give them a price and let them work their way down the price ladder.

[Have a disco]

thank you nathan at least someone follows the same routine as me. Not every area has a lack of trade most have a generous amount of discos to choose from so it comes down to affordability and choice

[Nathan Fleming]

Adrian

I am interested to hear exactly why you don't belong to an association.

I get the imression (and forgive me if I am wrong) that you like to be independant and operate outside association so you can say what you want.

Membership fees are typically less than a pound a week unless we are talking about DJA.

We are working to improve things for everyone and we need input from people to ensure we are pushing in the right direction.

I don't think I can delay not changing the membership fee for much longer as my colleagues are already saying I should have got round to it by now.

[Have a disco]

Badger by nickname and by nature is the best way I could put it. Reason I have not joined yes I can see the outside picture. I know people that have just the one small show to those that have 2 or 3 disco's others that have 6 or seven mobiles and 2 residencies in pubs locally and another out of town. Im not liked by most but am invaluable to others??.. I was nothing but a DJ til 3 years ago. (for clubs pubs and bars even disco's in the beginning)

But none of them want to rush to join any association that again means a loss of profit (a very small minded attitude I know)

Im not willing to join just because I am rebuilding what was started 3 years ago and was ruined by local word of mouth about a year ago by standing up to the big guys in a County court to get my money owed. My name was spread like mud by locals of the pub at the request of the pub owners. Too top it off my relationship of 6 years fell to pieces last year and yep Im picking up the pieces again.

As business builds again I will think about joining when Im happy with the work level but with just 1 show it will take time. so it is better me being an outsider with a voice as people do seem to forget the long hard slog to getting started and expensive. Joining every association is not only expensive but time consuming and I hate to say it I need a break from music sometimes.

In a sense I am already a senior member of the MDA and can voice myself there as well for free

[Nathan Fleming]

Adrian

Sorry to hear you have had a tough time recently.

Irespective of any association you would be in a much better situation by making friends and networking rather than the way you currently appear to operate and that is someone outside looking in, why not be on the inside and look out.

I am not purely talking about associations here.

Also without wanting to start a my association is better than your thread, the MDA appears to be just a logo and little else.

I would like to see all the assocations get together and join forces and become one big voice rather than several fairly small voices talking over one another. I would also love to see people within the MDA join forces with NADJ and help together we can work to improve things.

I know I am not alone in this!!!

[Have a disco]

Then I suggest that it is proposed and voted upon buy all members of both sites and any other sited that wished to join even the SEDA or MDJOL may wish to get things moving along this kind of thread

It does seem alot of people are all memebers of just one website

But the Likes of the DJA is just creating even more confusion

[Nathan Fleming]

Sorrry Adrian NADJ is not just a site.

We have a forum but that is not frequented by the majority of the membership.

NADJ is about getting people networking in person rather than just on a forum.

[Have a disco]

Sorrry Adrian NADJ is not just a site.

We have a forum but that is not frequented by the majority of the membership.

NADJ is about getting people networking in person rather than just on a forum.

But does that comment in its self show you that you have problems buy not keeping your members within your own forums talking via forums is basically the modern day way of networking. Prehaps the NADJ needs to adapt a little bit more ( and I hate to say this nathan but even you are here LOL)

[Nathan Fleming]

We don't try and keep members within our forums, there is only one place were that happens.

90% of our members have not registered on our forum or indeed any.

The other 10% are probably the main people who frequent all of the forums.

I am here because I like reading what I see but I would sooner be chatting to you guys in a pub :beer1: :beer1:

Ouch my head still hurts :o

[Shaun]

But does that comment in its self show you that you have problems buy not keeping your members within your own forums talking via forums is basically the modern day way of networking. Prehaps the NADJ needs to adapt a little bit more ( and I hate to say this nathan but even you are here LOL)

I would gather that a lot of the members don't use internet forums AT ALL.

I know a huge amount of DJs, very few of them frequent online forums.

[Nathan Fleming]

Just read the tail end of Adrians reply in Elites reply.

The NADJ continues to adapt, we have to it's an everchanging world in which we live in, he says in a rather terrible Paul McCartney voice.

[Have a disco]

I would gather that a lot of the members don't use internet forums AT ALL.

I know a huge amount of DJs, very few of them frequent online forums.

Also very few members even Network unless within ther own local area, Networking is such a loose terminoligy

Prehaps NADJ could adopt the same benefits at a fraction of the charges that the DJA are proposing (shock horror I suggested something simple) but that they the DJA are really just commercially ripping the hell out of the general public DJ industry. We aint as nieve as we look

[mikeee]

Prehaps NADJ could adopt the same benefits at a fraction of the charges that the DJA are proposing (shock horror I suggested something simple) So, you would like the NADJ to spend it's time flogging financial services!! I think not, but it could be offered as a side line, there are far more important things with in the industry to be delt with.


the DJA are really just commercially ripping the hell out of the general public DJ industryNo, they are running it as a business, and if there was ever a legal problem, they have the finanices to deal with it.


We aint as nieve as we look Are you sure???

[Have a disco]

Mikee they are aiming at a very clicky area of the market or Wannabees whom they can syphon money off whom, are more than likely not to get anywhere within the industry

Whats wrong with the NADJ providing a simple book keeping service to keep the tax office happy that any DJ or mobile service could use.

And because I did not spell nieve correct no I aint is your answer (but no spellchecker on this sites functions) I spoke to you 2 years ago about the smaller guys 2 years ago at the plasa when I was called the wicked wabbit woadshow you were up for these posibilities then mikke whats up now by introducing them to gain the site more profile before DJA steal the crown

[mikeee]

I wouldn't say clicky, but they are aiming at guys that 1) Love the art of DJ'ing and 2) Want to earn money.

Yes I remember our chat, and my aims and ambitions of seeing DJ's together under a / one banner are as strong now as they were then and 10 years before that. And this weekend, I will be putting in a good word with Jeremy Hunt our local MP. The name has to be spread and not just amonst DJ's, it need's to be recognised at all levels, then DJ's will have an equal chance with organisation like the MU and Equity.

I wasn't talking book keeping. Would you join an association that offered Pensions, Insurances, Savings schemes etc ect, I think not, but as I said it's nice to have these things as a secondary item.

Neive, Nieve, Niave, Naive - who cares how it is spelt, my comment meant, open your eyes and look around, and not just on forums, there are a lot of changes going on.

[Have a disco]

Mikee I AM WATCHING closer than you thnk?????

[Nathan Fleming]

Adrian

Mikkee may have been a committee member when you spoke with him but he isn't now and has not been for the last 12 months.

He is still passionate about helping the humble DJ he is just no longer tied to an association.

[Ricesnaps]

Reading these threads and possibly with the insite of the frustrations I see in my day job, it seems to me that certain people really demonstrate the ignorance and inability to work together within our industry.

The NADJ / SEDA / DJA / Tufty club thing is really really simple (or as far as I can see). You can either be a member or you can decide NOT to be a member. Simple as really. I'm sure many of us, me included have any number of reasons for not being members - mine if you wish to know I guess at the moment are a combination of ignorance, seeming lack of local committment, national events at non-local to me locations and a hessitance to commit based on not really being sure what benefit it will give me (on a very personal and selfish note that one). However, I am inteligent enough to grasp the concept and desires of groups like the NADJ and not publically vent my reasons. I just choose to sit back a little and watch what happens and see what I feel is right for me. The concept and development of all these organisations is something I believe every single genuine and honest DJ - like mr badger - should at least allow to develope without critisism.

[Nathan Fleming]

Thank you for your comments Ricesnaps, perhaps we might develop in your local area a lot quicker if you started the ball rolling.

This is not meant as a critisism but that is half the struggle for us, people sitting on the fence waiting to see how things pan out. With every new member we are that little bit louder.

Why sit on the fence and wonder, why not get involved and help stear us in the direction you feel we need to be going in.

We need input from DJ's so we can evolve and change to reflect the needs of our membership.

[soundtracker]

Whats wrong with the NADJ providing a simple book keeping service to keep the tax office happy that any DJ or mobile service could use.



Have a look at microsoft office accountiing express 2007 - its free, and does everything you need.

[Have a disco]

already using it soundtracker LOL and thank you ricesnaps for constructive a reply, Im not critisizing any of the associations. And as to go back To the DJA Question is it worth joining yet another profit making association just to prove whom you are????

In this case £325 before a discount is one hell of a price to join an association compared to many others like MDD/MDA or say NADJ

[soundtracker]

and therein lies the problem - no point trying to give our members something as a benefit , that is readily available for free!:)

[Nathan Fleming]

The NADJ and SEDA are not profit making associations.

Pete I just realised the intention of your previous post, well done.

[mikeee]

In this case £325 before a discount is one hell of a price to join an association......and you probably don't belong to the AA or RAC either:D

[soundtracker]

......and you probably don't belong to the AA or RAC either:D

Nah! No benefit - unless you breakdown! How lame is that!

[Have a disco]

......and you probably don't belong to the AA or RAC either:D

Strangely when I had a car I did AA it but like anything there are cheaper alternatives whom can provide the same but how often do I need a truck for a set of decks LOL

[Danno13]

You might well need to call upon the legal services that the NADJ is soon to offer though, which could be compare to breakdown insurance in a way.

And membership is less than £1 a week, so its hardly as expensive as you seem to make out.

[Have a disco]

was not making out that NADJ membership was expensive in anyway compared to the likes of DJA WHICH The question at hand was all about BACK on track please

[Nathan Fleming]

Adrian

If anyone feels that membership to the DJA is good value to them then they will join, but a lot of people have the same mind set as you and fail to see the value/benefit in joining NADJ or SEDA.

[Have a disco]

Adrian

If anyone feels that membership to the DJA is good value to them then they will join, but a lot of people have the same mind set as you and fail to see the value/benefit in joining NADJ or SEDA.

As in most businesses there is no point in joining associations until you have or start to make a profit, on the otherside of the coin you are just as like wise not to get work of the kind you desire if you dont..... its a catch 22 situation

But getting back to a point about the DJA I feel that they will not last long at these membership rates, They maybe aiming at the top end of the market in DJ's but I feel many DJ's will just avoid this association on price alone regardless of its benefits which most can be gained easily elsewhere cheaper or even for free

[Corabar Steve]

This thread seems to be going round in circles

[mikeee]

...Billy Preston, 197...... - I'll get my hat and coat. TAXI!!

[Corabar Steve]

Just leave the hat & coat & GET OUT! :sj:

[Shaun]

Adrian

If anyone feels that membership to the DJA is good value to them then they will join, but a lot of people have the same mind set as you and fail to see the value/benefit in joining NADJ or SEDA.


I have to admit, at this time I fail to see how the NADJ will benefit me. I tried to look on the NADJ website but the benefits link doesn't even work...maybe there are none?.

Maybe someone can't point out exactly what they do offer

Here's what I've heard so far

* Free subscription to Pro-mobile Magazine (Ummm, no thanks.)

* 10% Discount off musicguard insurance. (Members of the MDD forums already get this by being a member here)

*Access to the NADJ PLI Policy, £10m for £100.00 (I'm completely happy with my current policy so I've no need for this)

*Free entry to the NADJ Tradeshow (I've no interest in this)

*Legal Insurance cover, coming shortly (This could be of interest. I'm pretty sure I read about a member on this forum that felt let down that the NADJ weren't of any help when they needed legal advice. This is something that was obviously needed a while back)

*Flyers and Postcards promoting your own business and NADJ ( I design my own, so no need for these)




There's also mention of the networking, friendship and commaraderie....all of which can be gained through forums like these.

To be honest I really can't see any benefit (for me personally) of being a member of the NADJ. Unless anyone can convince me otherwise?.

[soundtracker]

As in most businesses there is no point in joining associations until you have or start to make a profit,


More rubbish - what better way to increase your business than to attach yourself to other successful DJs that may be able to pass on excess work to you.:bang: :bang: :bang:

[Nathan Fleming]

A lot of people have the same mind set as you and fail to see the value/benefit in joining NADJ or SEDA.

The networking side of NADJ if you have a local branch in your area is physical rather than just virtual.

Another aspect of being part of NADJ is knowing you are showing support to a cause that is working to help DJ's in many different areas, for some knowing they are doing there bit by being a member is enough, others like to know they can have someone who will help them when needed.

With regard to the past, we cant change the past nut we are adapting all the time and what applied to a member 6 months ago may not apply to a member in 3 months time.

Recently a member read an article on a site that does not represent DJ's in a favourable light, we are contacting the site and will hopefully be able to continue to work with the site in the future and help to improve the perception of the mobile DJ.

Another recent incident a member of the NADJ had found his site had been plagorised and we contact the culprit and managed to have the offended content changed, however if needed he would have had legal assistance.

We will continue to evolve and adapt and to enable us to do that, as it's ckear a couple of people in this thread see no benefit in being a member of NADJ.

What additional benefits might convince you to join?

[soundtracker]

I have to admit, at this time I fail to see how the NADJ will benefit me. I tried to look on the NADJ website but the benefits link doesn't even work...maybe there are none?.

Maybe someone can't point out exactly what they do offer

Here's what I've heard so far

* Free subscription to Pro-mobile Magazine (Ummm, no thanks.)

* 10% Discount off musicguard insurance. (Members of the MDD forums already get this by being a member here)

*Access to the NADJ PLI Policy, £10m for £100.00 (I'm completely happy with my current policy so I've no need for this)

*Free entry to the NADJ Tradeshow (I've no interest in this)

*Legal Insurance cover, coming shortly (This could be of interest. I'm pretty sure I read about a member on this forum that felt let down that the NADJ weren't of any help when they needed legal advice. This is something that was obviously needed a while back)

*Flyers and Postcards promoting your own business and NADJ ( I design my own, so no need for these)




There's also mention of the networking, friendship and commaraderie....all of which can be gained through forums like these.

To be honest I really can't see any benefit (for me personally) of being a member of the NADJ. Unless anyone can convince me otherwise?.

MY God - here we go again- what can NADJ do for ME! Why are you on this forum? So that you can share your ideas with the DJing community - which you do. So that you can help those who do not have your knowledge, and so that those with skillsets that you do not possess, can help you. Because you believe that professionalism in DJing will forward the cause of DJs and help the public to understand that it is in there interests to book a professional.
BUT and it is a HUGE BUT there is a huge difference between talking on forums, and the real world. After all 90% of DJs don't even look at forums, let alone post on them! Someone on here can tell you whatever they like, we have had only this week a company who have a marvelous web presence, a frankly superb coverage of most areas of the country, who look to the general public like a thoroughly reliable and respectable company, yet are (allegedy) somewhat short in reality.
When you sit around a table face to face with people, or go out with them on a job, you get a totally different impression. I thought I had a fair idea of how to run a DJ business- I knew Jack .... You never stop learning, and surrounding yourself with sucessful people can do you no harm at all. NADJ has doubled my business in 12months -Danno will give you a similar story, ask him, how long it took to cover his membership fee!The South Wales guys will back me up on this 100%. To a man, they have increased their fees and their level of business - when I attended their first branch set up meeting a year last january, they averaged £75 a disco. They told how they couldn't earn more in South Wales - the market wouldn't stand it. Ask them now!
Last year in South wales we did a sales training seminar over three meetings, this benefitted everyone, it gave them a new angle to approach things from. They took some of the messages onboard and haven't looked back.The newer members now want that repeated, as they feel they'ver missed out.
I've just had a phonecall from a lad who's had a cancellation for tonight, offering his services for emergency cover- ok anyone could do this, NADJ or not- but I've met him and trust him to put on a good show.
There's a great quote from an American Economist that says"If you always do what you've always done- then you'll always get what you've always got.
Open your mind.

The NADJ website is in the process of a re-vamp- it needs work, we are aware and are acting on it. We all work for nothing, and at the expense of our own businesses - but sometimes sacrifices have to be made for the greater good.

[Shaun]

MY God - here we go again- what can NADJ do for ME!

I'll try cover some other points later when I have more time but I'd like to address the quote above.

First and foremost before I part with any money, whether it be to join an organisation, pay money for a publication or indeed buy any product or service DJ related or not....the fundamental question I'll always ask is how can I benefit and what can it do for me. I sense frustration in your tone that you've possibly been down this route several times, but surely as a consumer my first question is going to be how can I benefit.

So you say "MY God - here we go again- what can NADJ do for ME!"

ABSOLUTELY...this will ALWAYS be my first question before I buy anything. Parting with hard earned cash without first asking that question is nothing more than stupidity. A fool and his money are soon parted.....

I understand that because you are a member of the organistion you'll be a little defensive, but as a potential future member I have the right to ask what the NADJ can do for ME. Surely?

[Shaun]

Pete,

All the points you've gone into above may be completely valid, and that's the kind of answers I'm looking for. I hope my posts haven't come across as anti NADJ, as that's not the intention. It's because I know absolutely nothing about the organisation that I'm asking questions.

[soundtracker]

A frustration born out of the fact that this is the third time this week! Doesn't anyone read these forums anymore!:D

[Nathan Fleming]

What additional benefits might convince you to join?

I ask this becuase we need to know, we need you as a member just as much as we need every DJ as a member.

With every new member we are a bit stronger and with every new perspective we will evolve that little bit quicker.

[Shaun]

A local branch to me would be a start. Maybe there is one?, I don't know. I couldn't find information on the NADJ website. I know the solution would be to be proactive and start a branch if I become a member....but I just don't have the time.

You've also mentioned legal insurance cover, that would definitely be a bonus to entice me, and when you get this off the ground I'll be first in line to get information on it.

Maybe I need to sit down and think about the benefits I would like, rather than go on about the benefits you offer that I don't want. I'll have a think....

[Nathan Fleming]

Shaun

Thank you we will welcome your feedback.

Where are you based?

[Shaun]

Hi Nathan, I'm based in Fife, Scotland.

[mikeee]

I gave up reading some of these posts - Hells bells and buckets of ......

Look at it a different way, look at it as a leap of faith, it's NOT what can I get now, but, OK, In a year or two, there is a very good chance that I'm going to get some serious benifit out of this, actually change that to 5 years, because it's going to be a very slow job. Look at other professional - Police, Teachers, Builders, anyone, they all have professional bodies that they belong to if they so wish, even lacemakers, and why do these people join, a sense of belonging, the feeling of being more professional without imediately what £500 back for the £50 they spent. I could go on and on, but do me a favour, do a google or whatever for professional bodies, associations etc and see how many thousands come up for the UK alone.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

A
Another recent incident a member of the NADJ had found his site had been plagorised and we contact the culprit and managed to have the offended content changed, however if needed he would have had legal assistance.



And legal assistance is now in place for everyone that belongs to NADJ is it?

[Nathan Fleming]

Peter

Is in the late stages of putting in place some form of legal protection and that will cover every member.

[Corabar Steve]

Still going round in circles I see. :sj:

[soundtracker]

Yup that's how a forum works!

[Nathan Fleming]

Not really Darren asked a specific question which has not been asked previously in this topic which I answered.

[Corabar Steve]

Prior to that Nathan.

I'm suprised Badger hasn't moaned about his thread being taken off topic :sj:

[Nathan Fleming]

OK sorry thought it was aimed at me.

[mikeee]

Nathan, your showing signs of spending to much time on forums. The next stage is repling to a thread on one forum on a different forum :whistle:

[Have a disco]

I'll try cover some other points later when I have more time but I'd like to address the quote above.

First and foremost before I part with any money, whether it be to join an organisation, pay money for a publication or indeed buy any product or service DJ related or not....the fundamental question I'll always ask is how can I benefit and what can it do for me. I sense frustration in your tone that you've possibly been down this route several times, but surely as a consumer my first question is going to be how can I benefit.

So you say "MY God - here we go again- what can NADJ do for ME!"

ABSOLUTELY...this will ALWAYS be my first question before I buy anything. Parting with hard earned cash without first asking that question is nothing more than stupidity. A fool and his money are soon parted.....

I understand that because you are a member of the organistion you'll be a little defensive, but as a potential future member I have the right to ask what the NADJ can do for ME. Surely?

I understand soundtrackers frustration as well, but Im much in the same vein as EliteDJ. yep Im sorry but I never look before I leap. I have absolutely no qualms as to what the NADJ are doing and I may join when I AM ready. After working as a glazing sales person no amount of hard sell will make me do things without asking the right questions first??? no matter how controversial and repetative they maybe, I thank everyone for the debate but suggest we close this here as it has gone way off track it was about the DJA not the NADJ

[Nathan Fleming]

I'm suprised Badger hasn't moaned about his thread being taken off topic :sj:

Blimey Steve hows the crystal ball.

[Have a disco]

No he used is shiny disco balls LOL

[Corabar Steve]

I'm just too used to the way you operate Badger.

My next comment was going to be that you'll want the thread closed, but you beat me to it.

You're getting predictable old son :sj:

[Dragonfly]

No he used is shiny disco balls LOL

Is Steve Niall Quinn in disguise ? :D :D

[Have a disco]

I'm just too used to the way you operate Badger.

My next comment was going to be that you'll want the thread closed, but you beat me to it.

You're getting predictable old son :sj:

Hey less of the old thank you, let the debate run its course according to the question asked is all I ask thats what the moderators are meant to be doing but dont let me tell them there job LOL

[Corabar Steve]

What? Closing threads for no reason? You should know this isn't that sort of forum :d

If a thread has run it's course it will fizzle out anyway. Moderators are here to ensure smooth running of the forum, not to close threads when they think they are of no further use.

[Flex]

Goodness what a lot of hoo haa. My original point wasn't meant to imply that NADJ was anything but a worthy attempt at creating professional body for the betterment of its members and their clients. I think the DJA is a sexier brand and with its inclusion of high profile DJ's, It has the potential of having more voice with both the media and content suppliers (record labels). I agree that their fee is exorbitant and will limit its appeal, especially amongst mobile and high street club DJ's. This is a shame and ultimately weakens it. When it was originally proposed my understanding was that it would be an association for all DJ's whatever their genre. This will obviously not be the case. Other than that their website offers a lot more than the NADJ site. It will appeal to the public because, lets be honest it has far more authority. The membership benefits outside of the cost of joining look appealing. I think NADJ could take some learning's from them. To my mind these are........

Targeting a wider inclusion of members (club and bar DJ's)
Improved membership benefits. (especially with national coverage)
Improved website (The logo for a start looks like its from the 80s) It should be an example of what we should aspire to. Half the time the links don't work or the content is not viewable.

With regards to Shaun's point about 'why should he join?' I agree totally. It should be pointed out that (as far as I can see) businesses who were NADJ members in Scotland last year have not renewed their membership this year. I have more as a matter of principle rather than believing it will add to my business. I get slightly annoyed when its implied that I should get off my backside and arrange meetings with other NADJ members in my area and form a local branch. Yes I could, but I don't generally join things so I can then get lumbered with running them. Been there and bought the T shirt. I would suggest that a good idea would be for NADJ to adopt a more proactive approach. A meeting arranged by senior NADJ members with invited guests (a recruitment drive) would probably triple the membership and facilitate the setting up of a branch.

I recently tried to count how many different 'Mobile Discos' were operating in Dundee alone. I went through the yellow pages, yell.com, MDD etc. I got bored after I reached 25. Who are these people? Dundee has a population of aprox 140,000, there would appear to be about 30 odd mobile discos operating in the town. Which relates to my point about 'people phoning around and booking the cheapest' 99% of my bookings are driven through the website. Its difficult to illustrate to a customer on the phone why they should fork out 40 or 50 quid more to book you. Its much easier via a website or brochure. I'm encouraged by the tales of vastly improved margins in wales, however it ain't gonna happen here with just 5 members dotted over the country.

[mikeee]

I recently tried to count how many different 'Mobile Discos' were operating in Dundee alone. I went through the yellow pages, yell.com, MDD etc. I got bored after I reached 25. Who are these people? Dundee has a population of aprox 140,000, there would appear to be about 30 odd mobile discos operating in the town. Which relates to my point about 'people phoning around and booking the cheapest' 99% of my bookings are driven through the website. Its difficult to illustrate to a customer on the phone why they should fork out 40 or 50 quid more to book you. with a ratio of 30 to 140K, yours rates should be quite high, whereas Aldershot has a pop. of about 10K and 50 odd DJ's - rates kept down.


I'm encouraged by the tales of vastly improved margins in wales, however it ain't gonna happen here with just 5 members dotted over the country. :confused: :confused: You just said there is 25 to 30 in your town :confused: :confused: Yes, it will happen, it takes one person to call another person, then another and the ball starts rolling, it may take weeks or months, but it can happen.


The logo for a start looks like its from the 80s Um, I get the feeling, that there are some American influences in the logo :D and the set up ;) but I didn't say that, did I :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:

[Nathan Fleming]

Whose logo are you refering to Mikeee?

[mikeee]

The DJA

[soundtracker]

I get slightly annoyed when its implied that I should get off my backside and arrange meetings with other NADJ members in my area and form a local branch. Yes I could, but I don't generally join things so I can then get lumbered with running them. Been there and bought the T shirt. I would suggest that a good idea would be for NADJ to adopt a more proactive approach. A meeting arranged by senior NADJ members with invited guests (a recruitment drive) would probably triple the membership and facilitate the setting up of a branch.

Sorry, but if we all took that attitude- there wouldn't be a NADJ! We all work for nothing to try and improve the lot of the DJ, not because we get a title, or because of the kudos - simply because we would like to see DJing taken seriously . We are quite willing to drive hundreds of miles to Scotland to help those that are interested,as soon as you can show that there is some interest, the assistance will kick in.



I'm encouraged by the tales of vastly improved margins in wales, however it ain't gonna happen here with just 5 members dotted over the country.

Wales had TWO members when the branch idea was put forward.


Incidentally the population of Herefordshire is 117500, and there are at least 40 DJs in Hereford alone - 75% of them charge less than £200 for a saturday night.

[Flex]

I Guess I not going to win on this one I'm I? Last census on Herefordshire was 178800 by the way.

[Have a disco]

Erm and so do they still charge less than £200 for a residency a disco or what clarity please or have you actually got all 40 to tow the NADJ line?? how many were already members and how many are now members