Bodyguard
Job Description:Bodyguards protect individuals or groups from the risk of violence, kidnapping and other harmful situations.
Job Category:What you will do:
In your day-to-day tasks you could:
- protect clients from threats like terrorism, political opponents, stalkers or over-enthusiastic fans
- check out and secure premises before clients arrive
- identify suspicious behaviour or unauthorised people
- prevent potential threats or disruption
- stay constantly alert to react to threatening situations
- accompany clients on business and social visits
- drive clients to and from venues
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of public safety and security
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
As well as:
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
- concentration skills
- leadership skills
- physical fitness and endurance
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail (organisational skills)
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
Entry Requirements:
Becoming a Bodyguard typically requires a combination of specific training, experience, and physical fitness rather than specific qualifications. However, certain skills and subjects can be helpful in preparing for a career in security and protection. Here are some subjects and skills that can be beneficial:
- Physical Education (PE): Physical fitness is crucial for bodyguards. PE courses can help you build strength, endurance, and overall physical fitness.
- Self-Defence and Martial Arts (Optional): While not a strict requirement, knowledge of self-defence techniques or martial arts can be valuable for personal protection roles.
- First Aid and CPR (Optional): Basic knowledge of first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can be useful in emergency situations.
Post School
You can get into this career by:
- a college course
- applying directly
College
In the UK, for example, you could do a Certificate for Working as a Close Protection Operative.
Direct Application
You can apply to an organisation directly to work as a bodyguard or go through a recruitment agency specialising in security work.
If you’ve previously done older security qualifications, check whether they are still acceptable. If you need additional training you can find an approved training provider.
Career tips
Many people enter this career after working in the police or the armed forces.
It may be useful if you can speak more than one language for certain jobs, for example diplomatic work.
Working Hours and Environment:
A typical week consists of 37-51 hours of work. You could be required to work evenings/weekends/bank holidays away from home.
You could work at a client’s business or at a client’s home. Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time and you may spend nights away from home. You may need to wear a uniform.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could specialise in surveillance, driving or residential security, or move into risk assessment consultancy work.