DJ LIFE recently surveyed the mobile DJ business owner to determine their confidence in the current economy and business outlook.
Many business owners that responded were self-employed with revenues less than $100,000.00, established business greater than 10 years, located in a major city or metropolitan suburb of the Northeast. Upon review and analysis of the survey results, DJ LIFE, and the help of the “Money Answer Man,” Jerry Bazata was able to draw the following conclusions on the potential business outlook for the mobile DJ:
- Confidence in Market Growth: A remarkable 54% of respondents expressed confidence in market growth, anticipating a 10% increase in sales and profitability. This positive sentiment reflects a bullish outlook, showcasing optimism amidst economic uncertainties.
- Diversification Strategies: Nearly half of respondents (46%) foresee an increase in bookings, demonstrating proactive efforts to expand their client base. While some anticipate stable profitability, this emphasis on bookings signals a proactive approach to sustaining revenue streams.
- Efficient Operational Practices: Encouragingly, 80% of respondents plan to maintain their current staffing levels and operational expenses, indicating a focus on efficiency and cost management. By keeping expenses flat, businesses can strengthen their financial resilience and adaptability.
- Strategic Investments: Despite economic caution, a significant portion of respondents (41%) are planning strategic investments ranging from $10,000 to $25,000. These investments, primarily in lighting, special effects, and event planning services, reflect a commitment to enhancing service offerings and client experiences.
- Adaptive Funding Approaches: Respondents are adopting diverse funding approaches for their investments, with 70% leveraging a combination of credit cards and cash. This adaptive approach allows businesses to capitalize on opportunities while maintaining financial stability.
- Emphasis on Professional Development: While prioritizing industry-specific conferences, respondents also express interest in educational events focused on sales, marketing, and business management. This commitment to continuous learning underscores a proactive approach to skill enhancement and professional growth.
- Strategic Pricing Decisions: More than half of respondents (52%) plan to increase pricing, demonstrating a strategic approach to maintaining profitability. This willingness to adjust pricing aligns with market dynamics and reflects a proactive stance towards revenue optimization.
- Long-term Planning Considerations: While many respondents are focused on immediate business needs, there is an opportunity for greater long-term planning. Initiatives such as retirement planning and business succession strategies can ensure the sustainability and legacy of DJ businesses for years to come.
In summary, after reviewing all the information from the survey, a final thought about the Mobile DJ community and its optimistic outlook for growth and resilience. Regardless, if you own a Multi-Operation or Sole Proprietorship, you are a small business owner which requires a disciplined approach to how you run your business. Your performance is your product and no matter how good that product is, if you fall short in managing the cash flow, poor at sales and marketing and do not seek the education beyond your product your business may struggle with profitability and growth. Planning for the future is so critical in the business climate as consumers are more budget conscious and can seek more alternatives when the purse strings tighten, and sacrifices need to be made.
About the Author:
Jerry Bazata is a Senior Commercial Lender with Cambridge Trust Company, a private bank in Boston Mass. Jerry is respectfully referred to in the DJ industry as the “Money Answer Man” and has been a performing DJ for the past 40 years. Jerry is also a contributing writer for DJ LIFE and has spoken at numerous DJ conferences through the years. In 2023 he was recognized as Lender of the Year by New Hampshire Granite State Awards and the New Hampshire Finance Business Authority.
