The lifestyle of a high-profile individual comes with multiple advantages, but also a need for adequate protection, often on a daily basis. And it’s not only the lives and well-being of wealthy individuals that need protecting. It’s also about protecting their brands and reputation as well as ensuring their family’s safety.
To address these concerns, individuals with high social status often hire security personnel. They can offer the peace of mind they need whether they’re at work, at home, or visiting a foreign country. In this article, we’ll be looking at the life of an executive protection specialist, what their job involves, and which qualities and skills are required to become one.
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Keep in mind all the professional requirements that you’ll need to meet
When looking to become an executive protection specialist, you need to ensure you’ve got what it takes in order to excel at this role. An ideal candidate needs to be a trustworthy individual and a reliable confidant. Communication matters a lot here, so you’ll need great interpersonal skills and a certain degree of discretion.
You’ll also need to adapt to your client’s needs and a plethora of different situations. Resourcefulness is a big plus in many clients’ books, along with great problem-solving skills. Of course, there are other professional requirements, including:
· skills regarding firearms handling
· training in martial arts, hand-to-hand combat, and self-defense
· evasive and defensive driving
· computer skills
· security guard license, driver’s license, firearm permit, first aid training, and training in executive protection school
· experience in law enforcement, military, security, or emergency response
Get ready to be referred to as a bodyguard…a lot
Although the terms executive protection specialist and bodyguard are often used to describe the same role, there’s a world of difference between the two. For starters, a lot of executive protection specialists perform their duties unarmed, contrary to bodyguards. Secondly, the former focus on providing private protection, while the latter are defined simply as attendants whose role is to escort and protect clients.
Although the clients sometimes use the terms interchangeably, this doesn’t present an issue. That is, unless an individual decides to claim the title of an executive protection specialist despite having limited experience and training.
Always be prepared to deal with paparazzis
Warding off pesky paparazzis following your clients around is something you’ll be doing on the daily. After all, your clients can be everyone from politicians to celebrities. As such, it’ll be your task to deal with paparazzis and fans and ensure your client and their image remains protected.
Other than these high-profile individuals, there are other VIPs who would benefit from protective services. According to a reputable executive protection NYC agency, that includes individuals “vulnerable” due to their net worth, status, or employment. This could be anyone from corporate executives and professional athletes to dignitaries and musicians. Master the art of planning in advance, remain professional, and you should have no problem excelling in high-profile missions.
Avoid drama…at all costs
As an executive protection specialist, you’ll be expected to deal with a lot of smart decision-making. There will be many situations that will put your ability to keep a cool head to the test. What’s important is that you avoid making any spur-of-the-moment decisions. Not only can they put your job on the line, but also your and your client’s life.
While some situations may be difficult to handle, try to stay away from drama no matter what. Remain calm and focused during your missions, keep your eyes peeled for security risks, and prevent critical situations from arising or escalating.
Remember to stay flexible
Of all the skills you’ll need, being flexible is the one you’ll be relying on the most. Unlike other professions, working in the field of security doesn’t involve a permanent, constant setting. The needs of your clients will be changing and evolving, and because of this, your work environment will vary significantly.
Some days, you’ll be changing locations and be constantly on the go, while others will be spent sitting or standing for hours at a time. One thing’s for certain, though – as long as you stay flexible and in shape, you’ll boost your chances of succeeding in the field.
Client’s safety starts with highly trained security professionals
Putting other’s safety first is one of the noblest things there are, which makes the career in the security industry a highly rewarding one. Although it can be stressful and physically exerting at times, there are multiple benefits to working in this field that outweigh the drawbacks. If you have what it takes, becoming an executive protection specialist could be one of the best decisions you’ve made.
