Dress the Part

Yesterday, I was walking through Sam’s Club picking up some essentials when the siren song of the samples lured me to their lair, or table, as it were.  The tasty Mediterranean cheese and jalapeno bread  just began to tickle my tastebuds when the man at the table asked me a question that took be back, “Now, don’t take this the wrong way, Sir, but you have really nice hair and you are dressed really nice and just seem put together.  What is it that you do?”

I shared with him the short version of the passion I have for what I do as a DJ, emcee, and entertainer.  I also shared with him that I learned a long time ago to always dress to impress.

He smiled and shared with me, “You see, I’m reading this book, ‘The Pursuit of Happyness,’ and it tells you that when you see someone who impresses you, ask them what they do – what their job is.”

I was grateful for that brief moment I was able to be an example, not just for myself, but for my profession.  I don’t know if it was the 80s movies, the chump who DJ’d a basement party in college, or one of many other things, but somewhere along the way the word “DJ”  often became synonymous with “slacker.”  This is about as far from the truth as it comes from what I choose to do with my life.  I work with clients from corporations large and small like McDonalds to Start-ups to law firms to children’s clubs to destination weddings in Park City to Bar and Bat Mitzvahs.  My goal is always to help the clients and their guests have the time of their lives.  This involves being well-presented, outgoing, and approachable.

I’m grateful to the man at Sam’s Club for reminding me I’m on the right track.  Remember, always be an example – play the part you want to have.

-DJ Rob Ferre