Top-notch Prescreening Questions to Ask when Hiring an Event DJ or Production Assistant

What is something you expect to be challenging about working as an event professional?

This question will help you understand the candidate's foresight and how they handle challenges. Their response can give you an insight into their problem-solving skills, which are crucial in the event industry.

What is your previous experience as an Event DJ / Production Assistant?

Experience is key in this field. You want to hire someone who has a proven track record in handling event production or DJing. They should be able to share their experiences and the roles they have played in previous events.

Are you comfortable with setting up and breaking down audio and visual equipment?

The setup and breakdown of audio and visual equipment is a significant part of the job. The candidate needs to demonstrate that they can handle this task efficiently and safely.

Can you describe your music collection and style?

As an event DJ, having a diverse music collection and a distinct style is important. This question will help you determine if the candidate’s music style aligns with the type of events you often host.

Can you provide references from previous events you have worked on?

References from previous clients are a great way to evaluate the candidate’s work ethic and professionalism. You can contact these references to get an unbiased review of the candidate's performance.

Do you have the necessary equipment for a large-scale event?

Large-scale events require high-quality and reliable equipment. Check if the candidate has access to such equipment and if they're capable of transporting and setting it up.

How do you handle song requests?

An event DJ should be flexible and responsive to the crowd's request. Their answer to this question will tell you how they adapt to the vibe of an event and interact with the audience.

How do you handle unexpected technical issues during an event?

Technical issues are inevitable in live events. The candidate should demonstrate their problem-solving skills and how they stay calm under pressure.

Are you comfortable working with various types of event software?

Modern event production involves various types of software. The candidate's proficiency in using these tools can be a huge advantage.

What is your availability like, can you work on weekends and late nights?

Event schedules can vary widely, and often include weekends and late nights. It's crucial that your candidate is flexible and available when needed.

Are you comfortable interacting with diverse groups of people?

In this role, they'll be interacting with a diverse group of people - from clients to event attendees. Their ability to communicate effectively and professionally is vital.

Do you have any experience in event planning or coordination?

While not always required, experience in event planning or coordination can be a bonus. This experience can help them understand the broader picture of event management and work more effectively with the rest of the team.

How do you handle stressful situations during an event?

Events can be high-pressure environments. This question will help you understand how the candidate handles stress and remains professional in challenging situations.

Do you have any specific genre or style that you specialize in?

Understanding the candidate’s genre or style specialization can help you decide whether they'll be a good fit for your specific events.

Can you provide a sample playlist for a specific type of event?

A sample playlist can give you a taste of what the candidate can offer. It can also show their ability to customize and adapt their music selection to fit different event themes.

What measures do you take to ensure the sound quality is optimal during an event?

Sound quality can make or break an event. The candidate should be able to explain the steps they take to ensure optimal sound quality.

How do you keep up with current music trends to ensure a relevant playlist?

Staying updated with the latest music trends is crucial to keep the playlist fresh and relevant. The candidate's answer to this can tell you about their commitment to their craft.

Are you capable of managing light systems during an event?

This question is especially relevant for a production assistant role. Managing light systems is a complex task that requires technical skills and a good sense of aesthetics.

Are you certified or have taken any courses related to event production?

While not always necessary, having relevant certifications or training can be a testament to the candidate's expertise and dedication to their profession.

Do you have any experience in live sound mixing and editing?

Live sound mixing and editing is a specialized skill that can greatly enhance the event experience. If the candidate has this skill, it's a big plus.