How to Find Executive Protection Jobs

Getting a high-paying executive protection job is difficult.

Executive protection jobs provide an attractive opportunity for people who have combat training and hope to earn high salaries guarding high-profile individuals and traveling the world. Unfortunately, there are not a large number of those jobs available. While you may be able to find a job with a top agency such as The World Protection Group or The Bilyeu Group, they are rare. The way to get an executive protection job, therefore, is often similar to how you get any other job: get proper training, network in the industry and handle all job prospects professionally.

Instructions

1. Get educated beyond your peers. Executive protection jobs often look for candidates who not only have martial arts and combat skills but also have at least a bachelor's degree and can speak several languages---especially languages not easy to find such as Chinese or Hindi. If you enroll in one of the executive protection schools, you may be automatically recruited if you have specialized skills beyond the norm.

2. Network with people in your industry. Many of the better jobs are not posted on any public forum but rather rely on referrals. Attend conferences such as the Los Angeles Executive Protection Conference or the International Executive Protection Conference. Join organizations like the American Society for Industrial Security. The friendships and professional connections you make with these organizations, as with any professional organization create leads.

3. Accept jobs that can build your resume, even if they're not what you want to do long term. Serving as security at a mall during the holidays or for a special event may not be your dream job but it could lead to positive referrals, add experience to your resume and build your reputation.

4. Be professional. There is a glut of former combat soldiers and trained bodyguards on the market competing for jobs. Top-level people will look for for candidates who are not only tough but who can speak and write English professionally, can carry themselves with professional courtesy and help make dangerous traveling or situations seamless. They must not be cold, tough guys or overly friendly or joviall, but recognize the cautious, respectful and dignified but courteous behavior their role requires.

References

• Body Guard Careers: Six Reasons You're Not Working: Harlan Austin: Nov. 2008
• Body Guard Careers; Getting Started in Executive Protection: Harlan Austin; February 2007