By Michael Whelan
Employment as a Close Protection Officer can be a rewarding career path. Before you decide on a career in Close Protection, you should ensure that you have done your research and that you have all of the facts. Training can be expensive if you do not have a sponsoring organisation. Close Protection roles are tough to acquire; there are far more trained Operatives than there are positions, therefore, you need to stand out.
There is far more to becoming a Close Protection Officer than just completing a training course, be sure to follow these five steps, and you will put yourself ahead of your competition:
- Training Course
- Resume/CV & Covering Letter
- Networking
- Experience/Position
- Continuation Of Training
Training Courses
You have probably seen the countless advertisements for Close Protection training courses. Picking the correct training course is more important than you think. Some of the large employers will discount you, purely based on the course you have completed. It may be because of politics within the industry, or merely because of the perceived standard of the course or training provider.
If you have a company in mind that you would like to work with, contact their HR Department and ask them which training providers and qualifications they prefer. Conducting a little research beforehand could assist you in securing that dream position.
Resume/CV & Covering Letter
When a position becomes available, you must ensure that you do not fall at the first hurdle. Many people believe they have the right skills for the job, and they might well do. But over 60% of resumes/CVs are not even read. The first stage of filtering applicants is often by reviewing their resume/CV and covering letter, this will be your first contact with the organisation. You need to get noticed. A poorly presented covering letter and resume/CV is a poor first impression. Remember, they don’t know you, and they can only go by what they see on paper. Always ensure your covering letter and resume/CV is written specifically for the position for which you are applying. If you need help with this, recruit the assistance of a professional resume/CV writing service, such as the service provided here at Operator’s Circle. Security Company HR Departments receive thousands of resumes/CVs. Make yours count.
Networking
Networking should begin from day one. Your start point should be to contact HR departments and ask them for their preferred training providers/qualifications. At this point you have already established a line of communication with them.
When you attend your training course, take the opportunity to ask questions, take advantage of the industry experience that is available to you. The trainers will be more than happy to answer any questions that you may have. Remember, they once sat where you are.
Horizon in the UK and Praetorian in the USA are both excellent in helping you with the first stages of the networking process. Ensure that you stay in contact with the people you meet on your course; these people could help you further down the road by sharing knowledge, experiences and letting you know about any vacancies that may become available in their workplace.
Finding positions can be a complicated process; there are thousands of posts spread over thousands of websites, which can be difficult and tiresome to navigate. Becoming a member of a networking-site such as Operator’s Circle, could save hours of your time and help narrow the search.
Experience/Position
Before you apply for a position, ensure that it is appropriate for you. If you continually apply for jobs with the same companies without having the proper skills, qualifications and experience, then you could end up becoming a noticed nuisance and find yourself at the bottom of the pile.
This doesn’t mean be unambitious. If you see a position that you would like, but don’t hold the necessary qualifications, make it your goal to acquire those qualifications. Go out and do the required training. The job will come around again, and next time, you will be ready. Reputation is everything in this industry, get your name known for the right reasons.
Continuation of Training
Once you gain employment, it is your responsibility to maintain your skills, qualifications and continue your career development. Close protection and medical qualifications have a shelf life and you will need to need to keep your skills current. Set a reminder in your calendar. If you are unable to manage yourself and maintain your skills and qualifications, it is unlikely that any employer will trust you with the responsibility of protecting their clients.
Summary
Being a Close Protection Officer can be one of the most exciting and rewarding jobs going. You have the potential to travel all over the world, earning a good salary, protecting the powerful, rich and famous.
You will get a position if you do your homework, put in the effort and ensure you are the standout candidate.
Remember, Prior Planning & Preparation Prevents Pi** Poor Performance!