Buy advanced tickets if they're available. Many clubs will sell advanced tickets directly or through third-party resellers if they have a big night on and want to be sure of selling the venue out. Go to the nightclub's website to see if tickets can be bought in advance directly or seek out ticket resellers. Some nightclubs will sell access to their "guest list" which will help you get into the venue ahead of the queue.
Dress to impress. If the nightclub has a dress code, stick to it. Don't wear trainers if the club has a policy forbidding them and dress smartly if that's the done thing at the venue you're visiting. Even if the club doesn't have strict rules on clothing, try to look your best. If it's a busy night and people have to be turned away, the door staff are more likely to send you packing if you've turned up in a pair of ripped jeans and a grubby T-shirt.
Arrive early. If you know it's going to be a busy night, make the effort to get there early. Many nightclubs charge a lower entry fee the earlier you arrive so as well as increasing the likelihood that you'll get in, you may save some money, too.
Behave yourself while queuing. The bouncers will notice if you're being boisterous while waiting to get in and may turn you away if you're creating a scene or making a spectacle of yourself. It's best to play it cool and wait patiently until you reach the front. Also, don't turn up too drunk or clearly under the influence of illegal substances. If you must indulge yourself, wait until you're safely inside.
Befriend the bouncers while waiting to get in. They have a great deal of influence over who can and can't enter the club. If you get chatting to them they might remember you on future occasions, too. If all else fails and it's looking like you're not going to get in, slip a bouncer a $50 bill.
Make up a story. If you can see that everybody's being turned away no matter how good they look or how much money they try and slip the bouncers, try to lie your way in. Tell the door staff that you're DJing and are due in the box any moment. The chances are you'll be told where to go, but if you're that desperate to get in, it's worth a try.