Whether you are a military member, a police officer or a private citizen, there are different duties that a bodyguard must perform. This article will cover the duties that you should expect from a bodyguard, as well as the salary that they earn. You will also learn about the training and qualifications you need to obtain to become a bodyguard.
Qualifications
Depending on the state you live in, you may be required to have certain qualifications in order to become a bodyguard. Some of these qualifications include having a high school diploma or a college degree. You might also have to take a physical test and pass a background check.
You can get a bodyguard certification from a number of private schools or community colleges. These training programs can last from a few hours to several weeks. A number of these courses focus on hands-on learning. You’ll learn how to handle different types of weapons, as well as first aid and emergency response techniques. These classes are designed to prepare you for any situation.
One of the best qualifications for a bodyguard is to have a strong sense of judgment. This includes good critical thinking and an ability to stay calm in a stressful situation.
You should also have a great deal of physical strength and endurance. This allows you to react quickly to threats. A daily fitness regime focusing on cardiovascular endurance, strength, and muscular endurance will help you reach your goals.
You may also want to consider a related degree, such as criminal justice, public safety, or law. This will help you impress prospective employers. These degrees can be earned online, in person, or by taking a series of courses.
You’ll also want to have a keen eye for detail. This is important when you’re protecting important people or working with other security professionals. You’ll need to create strategies to protect your clients, and you’ll need to be able to detect trouble before it happens.
Finally, you’ll need to know your local laws. You might need to have a license to carry a weapon, and you’ll have to abide by the rules of your province.
Duties
Typical duties of a bodyguard include protecting individuals and groups from violence, kidnapping, and other harmful situations. In order to do this efficiently, bodyguards must know what to do in an emergency situation. In addition, they must know how to effectively communicate with clients and other security personnel.
In addition, they must have the physical and mental strength to respond quickly to threats. This includes a high level of stamina and a strong sense of judgment. They must also have a clear understanding of the security protocols at their clients’ homes and workplaces.
They may also monitor surveillance cameras and identify unauthorized visitors. They may even recommend changes to the security system.
Depending on the job, bodyguards may also travel by airplane or train, or they may be assigned to a specific location. Throughout their shifts, they must be alert and prepared to act quickly in emergency situations. They must also have good communication skills, and be polite to clients.
In addition to physical strength, they must have a strong sense of judgement, and the ability to make rational decisions. They should also have an extensive knowledge of the security protocol at their clients’ homes, workplaces, and events. They should also have a good knowledge of CPR, first aid, and firearms.
In addition to these requirements, many licensing bodies require additional tests and exams. They may also require a background check. You should also make sure your resume is complete, and includes a bulleted list of your duties.
A well-rounded resume will include your qualifications, relevant training, and past experiences. You should include information about your military experience. For instance, if you were a member of special forces, you should include the name of your branch, dates of service, and duties.
Training
Whether you’re interested in a career as a bodyguard or in personal protection, it’s important to have the proper training. In addition to learning how to use weapons, a bodyguard must also have an understanding of the legal requirements for the job.
There are many different types of bodyguard training, but the most common includes classes in first aid, unarmed combat, and emergency services. These courses are offered by private security firms, and they can help you develop the skills you need to protect clients and others.
Some security firms may require you to have a criminal background or be in good physical shape. This helps you stand out to prospective employers. It is also beneficial for you to have a degree in a relevant field. For example, a degree in public safety can impress prospective clients.
Those looking for training for bodyguards can find programs online, in local communities, or through career or technical schools. Some states require bodyguards to obtain certification. A certification course can be completed online, and it typically lasts for a year.
To get certified as a bodyguard, you’ll need to complete an online exam and pass a physical test. You’ll also need to write an employment contract. The rate at which you’ll work will be specified in your contract.
If you’re interested in working as a bodyguard, you’ll want to be in shape. This can be done by completing a series of workouts. Some workouts include running, strength training, and agility. You can also work with a fitness professional to create a personal workout plan.
Some bodyguards receive military training. This type of training helps them build their confidence and response to authority. It also builds teamwork and provides a sense of discipline in life or death situations.
Salary
Depending on the area where you work, the salary for bodyguards can range between $55,000 and over $180,000 per year. If you have years of experience, you may be able to increase your pay by taking advanced training. You can also make more money if you are willing to travel around the world.
If you work in a city with a high cost of living, you should consider your income in terms of the cost of living. Alternatively, if you are moving to a city where the cost of living is much lower, you should consider that as well.
Typically, the most lucrative executive protection positions are found in mega metropolitan areas where there are a large number of famous people. This makes for an attractive job since you will likely have access to the most important events and people in the city.
You may be asked to work nights, weekends, and even shifts. Your salary will depend on the risk involved, as well as your level of experience. If you are an expert in martial arts, you will be especially attractive to clients who want someone who is strong and can defend them.
If you are a beginner, you may need to build your resume and make contacts in the security industry before you can begin working as a bodyguard. You will need to pass a background check and get the appropriate licenses before you can start working.
The majority of bodyguards work on a rotational basis, meaning that they can expect to work six to eight hour shifts. Other times, you might be asked to work 24 hours straight.
Your salary will also depend on the type of security company you work for. If you are employed by an agency, it will be easier for you to receive regular placements. However, you will have less prestige than if you work directly for an individual.