How to become a Bodyguard

How to become a Bodyguard Looking for some career protection? How about a career in protection?Bodyguards, also known as Close Protection Officers, are employed to protect their clients from physical attacks, kidnappings, and any other form of harassment or dangerous scenario.Although often thought of as being employed solely by celebrities, they’re now in demand for clients in a wide range of different sectors. Finance professionals, lawyers, government ministers, journalists and even eye witnesses, all employ Bodyguards to help ensure their safety.Typical duties for a Bodyguard could include:Checking areas for potential threats before arrivalSecuring destinations, and clearing exitsShadowing clients during their day-to-day activitiesProviding 24 hour surveillance and protectionPlanning out the safest routes before travellingResearching potential threats to minimise riskIs it right for me?Contrary to what you might see on TV, it takes more than a dark suit and a pair of designer sunglasses to become a Body guard.You’ll need excellent judgement skills, and should be able to scope out potential threats to your client at all times, no matter what situation you’re in.Also, although you’ll often act as a visual deterrent for potential attackers, the ability to blend into the background is key, and you may only be called upon to act or talk to the client in times of need. Just ask Kevin Costner…Key skills for a Bodyguard include:Excellent organisation skillsImpeccable time management, and calmness under pressureObservation and surveillance skillsFlexibilityA good level of physical strength and fitnessTrustworthiness and reliabilityCareer Progression BodyguardUp to £50,000 (guideline only) Security ConsultantUp to £70,000 (guideline only)What's it really like? I worked in the military for over 10 years before becoming a Bodyguard. To be honest, at first it was more of a stopgap. But I instantly took to the work, and a lot of skills I gained from the army were really put into pract ice. I do get to travel around quite a lot, but it’s generally at pretty short notice, and it’s not a particularly glamorous profession (you can’t legally carry firearms in the UK â€" so it’s not like the movies). Days can be long, and it does get pretty lonely at times. But you’ve literally got someone else’s life in your hands, and the pride that comes with that responsibility is enormous. I also kind of like the danger, if I’m honest. I know, weird right? Get qualifiedYou need to have completed approved training, and been granted a close protection license by the Security Industry Authority (SIA), to become a Bodyguard in the UK. Background checks will also be conducted by potential employers before you’re able to start work.