Apprentice under a well-established DJ to learn the business. Read articles and watch videos on how to DJ.
Purchase the specific equipment you wish to use when you practice your DJ skills, whether it be vinyl, CDJ or PC software. Once you have made your equipment choice, strive to learn to use the equipment to its full potential.
Practice alone as well as in front of friends and family.
Choose what type of DJ style you want to perform (club, mobile, turntables, etc.).
Decide what type of crowd you want to DJ for and select appropriately matched music.
Prepare five to eight hours worth of music to DJ for that specific crowd, regardless of genre or audience choice.
Dress and speak appropriately for your gig.
Promote yourself. This can be accomplished through passing out fliers, sample mixes, etc.
Increase your popularity through social networking.