I’m sure that my colleagues would agree that there is a certain “mystique” to the Bodyguard and Executive Protection industry. It is a world that can be somewhat shrouded in secrecy, and unfortunately, impressions of this business can be formed based on what the public sees on television and in the movies. In the interest of getting to some truth about this business, I thought it would be interesting to share some real world information that might help those who are interested in this career to understand that what is portrayed in the media is not always the whole (or realistic) picture.

Just to be clear, there are several terms that are used and are somewhat interchangeable for “Executive Protection Specialist.” They include: CPO (Close Protection Operative), and also “Bodyguard.”  Wikipedia describes a bodyguard or EPS as: a type of security guard or government agent who protects a person—usually a famous, wealthy, or politically important figure—from assault, kidnapping, assassination, loss of confidential information, or other threats.

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Back “in the day” when I was a young bodyguard and finally was making the Big Bucks I made a Big Mistake. I thought I should look as much the super-star as my client, so I went and bought myself the most gorgeous $2000 designer suit you’d ever want to see. It was tailored to fit my frame perfectly. I knew I looked good in that suit. Imagine my pride as I stepped out of the limo next to the celebrity, sporting my new suit for the first time. Imagine how pleased I was as we strutted to the venue, paparazzi cameras flashing. Later that night, I had to vault over a barrier in the line of duty. Imagine my horror when I heard my new expensive suit rip! It was the sound of twenty $100-dollar bills tearing. Now, there’s not much that will bring a big man down–but I think I might’ve cried a little that night!
–Harlan “Hucky” Austin

It is important to have the right wardrobe for the job interview, and for the job itself. But you can learn from the above story. You don’t need to spend a fortune on suits to look sharp. Be sure to check with your employer as to his/her expectations for on-the-job attire. Some clients prefer that their Executive Protection Staff NOT wear suits, but rather “blend” more in dress slacks and shirts. For the most part, however–you will need to own a few suits for the job, and that can get expensive. (more…)

In the interest of providing our visitors with the best information available to succeed in this business, following are the top websites every bodyguard needs to bookmark!
Some of these are places to SEE, others places to BE SEEN. Brief descriptions of each website are included, please be sure to visit them to learn first-hand how they can be of help to you. Also, feel free to let us know which sites you like, or to comment!

#10 http://www.commandpost.org

An A-Z listing of resources for individuals in the protective services. Need to charter a helicopter for your principal? Want to know where to purchase special equipment? Learn about biochemical security? A compendium of odds and ends of interest.

#9   http://www.freelancesecurity.com

Just as the name suggests, this is a “Bulletin Board” of sorts where jobs are posted. A lot of private investigation work, surveillance, fraud detection. Post your services as a security consultant here to be considered for employment opportunities.

 #8   http://www.myspace.com

This is a place to promote yourself and your services. A lot of my friends gave me a hard time when I created a profile here (’cause a lot of young people use this site) BUT I have been able to reconnect with so many old colleagues and friends, and have heard from so many people with similar interests that I think it merits a spot in my Top Ten.

#7 http://www.linkedin.com

“Grown-Up” version of MySpace. Another place for you to post a profile and network with like-minded individuals in this field. Find old friends and make new ones! Good for self-advertising.

#6 http://industry-icon.com/blog/

My buddy Elijah Shaw’s ongoing blog. Smart guy, with interesting information to impart. Currently working as Usher’s bodyguard. (Sorry, my friend, but I had to rank my website a little higher than yours–hope you understand!) (more…)

You may not think it, but celebrities, for all their fame and money, are just like us–they have personal problems, too. Problems/habits can include addictions ranging from drugs to alcohol to sex. Some engage in illegal activities, or exhibit immoral behavior. Because these individuals are famous, when they stumble, often a bodyguard is the one to catch them when they fall–and therein lies one of the real dilemmas of this line of work–the fall can be very public and very damaging to everyone around them. (Think Michael Jackson, Britney, Anna-Nicole).

Sadly, it seems some of the rich and famous have distorted views of themselves, in which they are above the law. They often expect those closest to them (including personal assistants, bodyguards, drivers and the like) to turn a blind eye to their various unethical or illegal proclivities, and in some cases may even ask employees to participate in procuring drugs or prostitutes.

Once a celebrity has been busted, some bodyguards breach the “confidential” aspects of a client’s lifestyle, in hopes of a high pay-out from the tabloids. It is greedy, mean-spirited and two-faced. If a bodyguard has taken a job and been witness to or participated in illegal or immoral activities–and accepted a paycheck–then (s)he was paid for their silence. (more…)

Bodyguard Training International 5 day intensive Executive Protection training course
is unlike most Bodyguard training schools and academies. At BTI they focus on each student individually as there instructor to student ratio is much smaller than many of there competitors. By limiting enrollment to 8-10 students per course, BTI can offer individualized instruction based on the class and not the syllabus.

Each one of BTI courses is tailored according to each student, something you should look for in an Executive Protection academy.

This course is all inclusive from training to lodging and meals, *Includes lunch and dinner daily, lodging is 2 students per room where applicable.

Course also includes 30 state CCW permit course** and copy of the EPS 1 Training Manual. BTI offers veteran and team discounts, please call today for details.
Call 805-497-3907
**Only students who pre-qualify will be granted CCW/Weapons training.
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