One of the first challenges a new KJ must face is getting venues to hire their services. Most KJs scope out prospective spots personally. They hang out in the bars on a few different nights, sometimes even attending other shows. Sometimes this practice can get dicey. While it is difficult to sell a bar owner on the merits of karaoke if they have never seen it in action, it is even harder to talk them into giving you a shot if they already have an established show in place. Tact and caution are the buzzwords here. You won't get anywhere with opening lines like, "This place really sucks! It's so boring! I could make it better ... hire me!" It's also not a good idea to tell the owner that his entertainment stinks ... even if it does. Finally, there is one practice that is considered a major no-no to other KJs: undercutting. Do not ask what a current KJ charges, with the express purpose of undercutting their price. There is such a thing as professional courtesy, even in the karaoke business. It is ok to ask for prices to get an idea of the going rate in your area, but don't use this information to purposefully hurt others' business. Instead of undercutting, try pointing out other benefits you bring, without directly comparing yourself to other acts. Point out your excellent sound rig, your eclectic library, your large fan base-all your best qualities. This shows your strengths, without giving you a reputation as a mudslinger.
Once you have established a venue, your next task is pleasing your audience and customers. Your goal should be to establish a core following, one that will follow you from venue to venue. KJs who can virtually guarantee a large audience have a much easier time getting venue owners to hire their services.
There are many ways to please your customers, whether they are singers or spectators. There is no set list of KJ etiquette, or even any specific way KJs should run their shows. Differences in personality are what make each show unique. However, there are certain expectations. A KJ that gets involved with the audience, that talks and cracks jokes between songs, and that is helpful and courteous, will have a much happier audience than one who is wooden, and who simply announces each singer as they take the stage. Stage presence is a huge asset.
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