Career as Video Jockey

If keeping the audience and guests entertained through energetic music is the job of a DJ, a VJ is responsible for the same, but through his witty dialogues, pleasing personality, and compelling presentation. Similar to the work of a DJ, a VJ, too, has to amuse the audience with his distinct capabilities in order to keep them hooked to the idiot-box. A VJ, or a video jockey, can anchor various television programs, such as musical phone-in program, a talk show, or reality shows, wherein he/she interacts with ordinary people, either indoor or outdoor. For entertaining and amusing the viewers, a VJ can look out for various interesting methods, such as conveying messages, telecasting videos, playing songs, and so on. To become a successful and renowned VJ, an individual should possess the qualities of being passionate, vibrant, enthusiastic, eager to learn more, energetic, and amiable. Besides, one should have a great sense of humor and be a reservoir of knowledge on the subjects being discussed. The most important aspect of video jockeying is the display of confidence in front of the camera and instant wit. A video jockey not only has to perform in front of the camera, but is also required to actively participate in the pre-production work, which includes deciding the theme of the program, selecting the songs to be played, and even preparing the script.

Course Details
Video jockeying does not require any technical qualification. Anyone with excellent communication skills, great sense of music and humor, capability of voice modulation, and camera friendliness can try his/her luck in this field. However, keeping in mind the increasing need for good VJs, a number of institutions have started conducting three-month or six-month certificate programs. The program curriculum focuses on sharpening the skills of public speaking, creative writing, and overall presentation of an individual. In addition, some institutions provide training to handle other shooting apparatus.

Career Prospects
The launch of numerous music channels, game, travel and chitchat shows has increased the demand for skilled and proficient video jockeys. Video jockeys are hired for anchoring shows on numerous music channels, such as MTV, Channel V, B4U Music, etc. One can also see VJs presenting game shows and reality shows on popular television channels. Countless opportunities are open for competent video jockeys. Apart from anchoring, one can opt for modeling, acting in music videos and films, and work as PR executives. VJs, who have good voice quality and taste for music, can try for radio jockeying as well.

Top Colleges Offering UG/PG/Other Courses
Several institutes offer diploma and certificate programs in video jockeying. Some popular ones include: Purple Rose Arts & Media Institute, Noida; Asian Academy of Film & Television (AAFT), Noida; International School of Media and Entertainment Studies (ISOMES), New Delhi; Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), New Delhi; Mass Communication Research Centre (MCRC), Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi; and Amity School of Communication, New Delhi. Institutes conducting public speaking programs can also help an aspiring individual to pursue a career in video jockeying. Colleges offering mass communication courses also provide an outline of the job of a video jockey.

Remuneration
Video jockeying has a myriad of job opportunities waiting for budding individuals. Salary of a video jockey depends on the popularity of the show. Beginners can earn around Rs. 10,000-15,000 per month. Popular shows can fetch six-figured pay packages. The best part about this profession is that a video jockey can earn name and fame upon excelling in the field, apart from mere handsome earnings.