Archive for the ‘Career Advice’ Category

Written on July 8th, 2010 by Hucky

TOOLS OF THE TRADE

Many individuals trying to break into the Executive Protection field spend years training and networking but fail to recognize that one important (and inexpensive) tool is missing in their arsenal: a professional resume.

Resumes represent an individual’s ability to plan and organize and sell their skills. As they say in marketing; the packaging is key to selling a product. And YOU are the product. We have seen countless resumes that simply don’t pass muster and unfortunately, even if you have skills and/or experience, a poor resume sends a statement that your attention to detail is lacking.

Think about this from a potential employer’s viewpoint for a moment. If you can’t create a strategy to obtain a professional resume—the perception may be that you don’t value the importance of advance work. If you don’t take the time to check for spelling or grammatical errors—it sends a message that you may not be careful to double-check an itinerary or evacuation plan. If you don’t have a strong career objective, employers may feel you are unable to take decisive action. Sloppy margins, inconsistent formatting. . . you get the picture.

Your resume is your first point of contact with potential employers.
Bodyguard Careers can help you to put your best foot forward by working one-on-one with you to create a resume that will increase your chances of landing an interview. We will assess your training, experience and skills to help you prepare a strategy for your career path that starts with your resume and cover letter. We are confident our guidance will increase your chances for success. Learn more by clicking on the BGC CAREER TOOLS tab on our website.

“You Never Get a Second Chance to Make a First Impression”

Written on March 19th, 2010 by Hucky

It’s nice to feel appreciated

I normally don’t post testimonials, but after having a very challenging week this was just what I needed. Robert, thank you for the kind note.

 Mr. Austin, I just wanted to send you a message thanking you for several things, actually. First, it was you that pointed me in the direction of Icon, which after over 2yrs of searching, turned out to be exactly what I was looking for. Second, your advice both on your website and at the course are already proving to be invaluable. I am hoping that both pay off in the very near future. And finally, thank you for being there for people like me who are trying to break into the field. It is refreshing to actually meet someone who is not just in it for themselves. You truly care about this industry and those who want to be in it and it shows in all that you do for us. I hope you still have the card that I gave you and will use it if/when you get down to the Houston area. I’m sure you know that Texas hospitality knows no bounds and I know that all three Texan Alum from this last course would be more than happy to extend to you, anytime. Again, thank you for all that you have done and are doing for the EP world.

Rob Moore

Written on November 29th, 2009 by Hucky

Surge in Demand for Female Bodyguards

I was privileged this weekend to participate in a piece that Fox News ran on the surging demand for female bodyguards. Over the last 10 years there has been a huge increase in requests for female executive protection specialists. Even though, the overall number for female executive protection specialists is less than 3% I see an incredible potential for growth for any female considering this industry.

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Written on July 20th, 2009 by Hucky

Key to Marketing Yourself

By Hucky Austin

One of the questions I’m asked most is, “How do I find work?” It can be very difficult to secure bodyguard or executive protection contracts and I’d like to address what I perceive as a shortcoming in terms of landing good jobs: Self-Promotion.

If going solo is your desire, go after the work diligently and persistently. Sales and marketing is very much a numbers game. You’ll be rejected or ignored a hundred times for every nibble or yes you’ll receive. It’s rough going at first but in time, if you conduct yourself well, apply yourself to personal and professional development, your reputation will bring work to your door or nowadays, your email inbox.

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Written on June 8th, 2009 by Hucky

Tenacity equals Financial Growth

There are no magic pills that you need to take to become successful in the Executive Protection Industry. To put it simply, it’s just hard work nothing more nothing less. Have you heard of the saying, “Work hard now and play later?” This phrase holds great meaning. So many individuals are unwilling to put forth the effort needed to succeed in this field.

Let me explain. In order to succeed in this EP industry or any industry for that matter, you must have the desire and hunger to achieve your goal. And by the way, your goal is to obtain continuous employment in this field. One of the biggest reasons individuals are not successful in this industry is Laziness.

I speak with at least 10 individuals a week, who expect me or someone like me to not only take them to the water, but they also expect me to drink it for them as well. In other words, they count on me to hand over all of my secrets to them so they don’t have to put in any hard work. This is a simply, without doubt, called laziness. Laziness is not a characteristic that will lead to successfulness by any means. Let me give you an example of what I’m talking about.

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