How to succeed as a bodyguard?

Even though some countries and cities may report a decline in the level of crime dogging their jurisdiction, the truth is that crime is a reality that society and individuals must find ways to deal with. When it comes to personal protection, different people have different needs depending on a number of factors, such as their status in society. This is where bodyguards, also known as executive protection specialists, come in.

The growing demand for a bodyguard

Indeed, the need for executive protection specialists has seen a rapid increase in line with the growing threat to personal safety presented by terrorism, crime, and unpredictable stalkers. In addition to that, prominent personalities such as politicians, business persons, top-level corporate executives, and celebrities rely on the services of these professionals to help them avoid pesky paparazzi and ensure they enjoy their privacy.

Due to their high-risk work environment and the high demand for their services, bodyguards are very well-compensated as well, and that is one of the many reasons why our country’s youth are now considering a career in this exciting, independent and self-fulfilling industry.

If you are interested in learning how to become a bodyguard, you must understand what this job entails.

What does it take to be a bodyguard?

Being an executive protection specialist takes hard work and dedication if one is to execute their role effectively. Bodyguards must be physically fit and in near-perfect health. This will provide a good foundation for them to protect their client. Looking at the circle of people their clients will frequently be in contact with, a specialist must also have excellent oral and written communication skills.

Moreover, bodyguards will come across different types of people during the course of duty, and they must have good interpersonal skills while taking care not to compromise their client’s safety. Today’s bodyguards must make use of both brain and brawn. Apart from physically confronting and repelling threats against their client, bodyguards will sometimes be called upon to negotiate with the aggressor in order to avoid the threat from materializing into injury or fatality.

Bodyguards should also be observant and highly aware of their surroundings. In fact, a bodyguard must where possible, take the initiative of familiarizing themselves with an area prior to their client’s arrival. This will help them to better make practical evacuation plans as well as take appropriate action when confronted with danger. For instance, they will be better positioned to identify which is the quickest escape route depending on what area of the compound or building the client is located at the time.

A bodyguard must be prepared to spend a lot of their time in solitude. The role of the bodyguard will often not require them to be in constant communication with their employer or the people around them. Many times, a bodyguard will have to sit alone in a car or a room.

The last word

If you are considering a career as a bodyguard, you must be prepared to apply for and attend executive protection training programs that will equip you with the skills required to be a modern-day executive protection specialist.

EPI developed executive protection training. We’ve been perfecting it ever since. With the latest methods, technologies, and best instructors to give you an edge in this ever-changing field.