Skills that will set you up for success

What does it take to have a successful Protective Services career?

Recently I have been asked; what does it take to be successful in the protective services field? I have also had folks inquire about how to break into the business or achieve specific assignments within various protection programs. While these are separate subjects, they interconnect in many ways. I wanted to share some insights about these topics that I hope will help new agents and aspiring security professionals find success in the protection arena.

Professionals currently working the the executive protection field often began their career with military or law enforcement organizations. While this is not a hard and fast rule - it is a great place to start. Military and law enforcement organizations offer a regimented routine of discipline, organization, attention to detail and integrity. These career fields also mirror the skills required for protective services.

For professionals with a law enforcement or military background, transitioning to the executive protection field can be a natural fit. As mentioned previously this is not a hard and fast rule. I have met and trained many folks who did not have an extensive a law enforcement or military background, yet still possessed the attitude, demeanor and skills necessary to preform very well in executive protection.

I believe very strongly that the skills and knowledge to become an excellent executive protection agent can be learned. Excellent communication ability is among the top fundamental skills that every protective services professional must posses, and strive to master.

I have noticed that one of the biggest challenges executive protection agents face is that of interpersonal/communication skills. This is an area that I have found takes great deal of effort and mindfulness to develop and maintain. While many interpersonal traits are tied to various unchangeable life factors and experiences, I still believe interpersonal skills can be influenced and ultimately developed over time. It is necessary for executive protection agents to have the ability to be able to preform their duties within a variety of relationships and situations.

Over the course of the next few articles I will breakdown and discuss some of the key communication skills that I have found can help security professionals set themselves apart.

Topics covered:

1. Written Communication