30/12/2024
The Decline of Courtesy in Hospitality: A DJ’s Perspective
The hospitality industry has always been about creating memorable experiences, as a DJ, my role is to provide the soundtrack to these moments, bringing joy to weddings, parties, and events. However, in recent years—particularly since the pandemic—I’ve noticed a worrying shift in behavior that’s affecting not just the industry but the people within it.
Patience has become a rare virtue, whether it’s impatience with staff at bars or a quick temper towards gentle reminders about venue rules, the hospitality sector has become a hotspot for tension. As someone on the front lines, I see this unfold in real time, and it’s deeply concerning.
The Impact of Alcohol on Behavior
It’s no secret that alcohol lowers inhibitions, but lately, it seems to do more than that, it often brings out an ignorance that leads to rule-breaking and, worse, mistreatment of staff. One of the most common issues I encounter is partygoers bringing drinks onto the dance floor, while it might seem harmless, the reality is quite different.
Spilled drinks can lead to sticky floors, damaged equipment, and, most dangerously, broken glass that could harm someone. When this happens, the party halts, the music stops, the lights come on, and the entire atmosphere collapses while the mess is cleaned up……It’s a buzzkill for everyone involved.
DJs Are the Messengers, Not the Enforcers
Here’s where the disconnect lies, as DJs, we are often tasked by venue management & owners to constantly remind guests of the rules, such as keeping drinks off the dance floor, but when we use the microphone to make these announcements, we’re sometimes met with hostility.
I’ve personally experienced being shouted at, ignored, or even insulted for simply doing what I’ve been asked to do, I t’s important to understand that DJs are not the enforcers; we’re messengers trying to ensure everyone has a good time without unnecessary interruptions.
A Simple Reminder Goes a Long Way
It’s worth taking a moment to consider the consequences of ignoring simple guidelines. Venues have these rules in place for good reasons—to protect their property, their staff, and their guests. When DJs step in with reminders, it’s not to nag or police the party; it’s to keep the celebration running smoothly.
Imagine a wedding where the first dance ends abruptly because of a spilled drink, or a birthday party that’s disrupted by broken glass. These moments can cast a shadow over what should be joyful occasions, and they’re entirely preventable with just a bit of cooperation and respect.
A Call for Change
The hospitality industry has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years, and those who work in it—from DJs to bartenders to waiting staff—are doing their best to make events special, but we can’t do it alone, we need a collective effort from everyone to bring back patience, kindness, and understanding.
So the next time you’re at a party or event, remember the people behind the scenes working to make it unforgettable. Follow the rules, treat staff with respect, and most importantly, enjoy yourself without creating problems for others. Together, we can bring back the spirit of celebration without conflict.
Let’s make hospitality hospitable again.