Professional bodyguards can work within the government or the private sector as personal security personnel. The primary role is to protect their clients from various threats like theft, assassination, assault, or kidnapping. Bodyguards often work for high-profile people, such as politicians, celebrities, and wealthy individuals. They are expected to be discrete and uphold their client’s privacy and confidentiality. Those working within the government are required to obtain a security clearance.
When on the job, bodyguards must know how to secure areas when driving and escorting clients to different locations. They also are expected to manage crowds, keeping them away from their client. Shadowing and watching over a client might seem routine, but the bodyguards are always alert, assessing the scene for any potential threats and detain suspects, using force when necessary. The schedules of these professionals are often centered around their client’s needs. The calendars can, at times, be flexible and include nights and weekends.
The median annual salary for bodyguards, as of Dec 2019, stood at roughly $63, 940 which makes this a promising career for those that fancy working as bodyguards. They can flow different paths to achieve their professional goals, and this will entail education and having some degree of experience in some areas that will help to kickstart and advance their career.
1. The Right Education And Training
A survey done by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests that aspiring bodyguards and security offices are required to have a high school diploma, GED, or complete on-the-job training. Some vocational training centers, schools, and for-profit institutions offer certificate programs in security protection services. The bodyguard executive protection training programs are designed to mold candidates that will have the knowledge and expertise for the personal and property security sector. The certificate program covers threat assessment, legal and ethical issues as well as physical security protocols.
Some employers prefer hiring bodyguards and security personnel with a bachelor’s degree in law enforcement, criminal justice, or a related field. The degree programs provide candidates with knowledge in areas such as forensic science, criminology, and even psychology. The successful completion of a degree program sets up aspiring security officials and bodyguards in a better position for higher-level certification in the future.
2. Gain Experience
While education is beneficial, gaining experiences as a security guard helps develop the knowledge and skills needed for the profession. The bodyguards might be required to undergo specialized education and training to improve their prospects of employment. Most states require security guards to have taken the approved training, be registered, undergo a drug test, and pass background checks.
Some experience in law enforcement or the military can also be advantageous since security guards and bodyguards are often expected to possess firearms knowledge, physical fitness, and protective driving skills. Such an experience can also be crucial in helping these professionals be mentally prepared and familiar with their duties, think actively in dangerous situations, and execute fast and concise defensive measures.
3. Become Certified
Many of the higher-level certificates for professional security officers and bodyguards are grounded on education and experience. For instance, those aspiring to work in this industry can get a PSP (Physical Security Professional) designation, which they can obtain through the American Society of Industrial Security International. The certification demonstrates experiences in risk assessment and evaluation of security measures, among other fields.
Qualification requires applicants to be holders of a bachelor’s degree with a four-year experience in physical security, or an associate degree or high school diploma, and a six-year experience in physical security. The applicants must also take and pass exams that cover security assessment, security measures, and security systems.
4. Advancing In The Career
It is possible to advance your career as a professional bodyguard in a variety of ways. For instance, some organizations and clients in the private sector require higher security levels to offer higher wages. Security professionals with enough experience and education might advance in their careers to become security managers. Bodyguards that have a license to carry firearms have a better opportunity to develop in their profession. The licensing requirements vary by state and can include concealed weapons permits. Security Clearance Lawyer can aid you in processing your security clearance.
It also is possible for those with enough education and experience to advance their employment positions in government agencies. For instance, the U.S. Department of State has a Security Protective Specialist position for individuals that are hired to offer diplomatic security at regional offices, embassies, and consulates. The protective security specialists can be deployed to provide their services in other countries. Qualification of this job position includes three-year experience in security, knowledge in firearms, evasive and defensive driving skills, and passing a rigorous fitness test.
In summary, professional security officers and bodyguards are educated and trained, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills needs for working in the private sector or the government. Having some experience in law enforcement, security, or the military be beneficial in advancing in this career.