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Executive Protection Skills Aren’t Enough: The Biggest Hiring Lie

Personal Protection Jobs

Executive protection professional showing why executive protection skills alone are not enough to get hired.

 

 

I’m going to tell you something that most executive protection schools won’t—and many seasoned veterans forget: executive protection skills alone are not enough to build a successful career.

That’s the biggest lie in our industry.

We’re taught that if you master the hard skills—the shooting, the driving, the tactics—the work will just come. We’re told that excellence is the only marketing you need. And while excellence is non-negotiable, it’s also the bare minimum. It’s the price of entry, not the key to the kingdom.

After more than 30 years in this business—from the controlled chaos of world tours with Prince to the quiet precision of corporate details—I’ve seen countless highly skilled agents struggle to find consistent, high-paying work. They were tough. They were smart. They were capable. But they were also waiting for the phone to ring.

They believed the lie.

Meanwhile, I watched other agents—often just as skilled, and sometimes less so—with full calendars and a waiting list of clients. The difference wasn’t their executive protection skills. It was their ability to market themselves, build relationships, and position their services in a way that made clients want to hire them.

In this industry, your reputation is your business card—but your network is your paycheck.

The Hard Truth About the Executive Protection Job Market

Let’s be honest about what the market looks like today. There are more trained agents than ever before. Schools are churning out graduates every month, and the barrier to entry has never been lower. A week-long course and a few thousand dollars can get you a certificate that says “Executive Protection Specialist.”

But a certificate doesn’t get you hired. Neither does a résumé packed with training courses or a social media profile full of tactical photos.

What gets you hired is simple: someone with a problem thinks of you as the solution.

That’s it. That’s the entire game.

So the real question becomes: how do you position yourself so that when a corporate security director needs coverage—or when a family office is looking for a full-time agent—your name comes up?

The answer isn’t more training.
The answer is a system for client acquisition.

Why Executive Protection Skills Alone Don’t Get You Hired

Over the years, I’ve identified five critical elements that separate the agents who struggle from the agents who thrive. These aren’t secrets. They’re disciplines—often ignored until it’s too late.

1. Define Your Niche

The biggest mistake new agents make is trying to be everything to everyone. Flexibility sounds good, but to a client, it sounds unfocused.

Clients don’t hire generalists. They hire specialists.

When you clearly define who you serve, where you operate, and what problems you solve, you stop competing with everyone—and start standing out.

2. Build Your Digital Footprint

Whether you like it or not, your digital presence is your first interview.

A clean LinkedIn profile, professional photo, clear summary, and real recommendations are no longer optional. Your online footprint should answer one question immediately:

“Can I trust this person?”

3. Master the Art of Networking

Networking isn’t about collecting contacts—it’s about building credibility.

The people who control the work aren’t always other agents. They’re corporate security directors, executive assistants, HR leaders, family office managers, and risk consultants.

Those are the relationships that matter.

4. The Follow-Up Formula

Most opportunities are lost after the first conversation.

A simple follow-up within 24 hours—and consistent, value-based check-ins every few months—keeps you top of mind. When the need arises, familiarity wins.

5. The One-Page Proposal

When it’s time to pitch, clarity closes deals.

One page. No jargon. No fluff. Just three answers:

  • Can you solve my problem?

  • How much does it cost?

  • How do we get started?

That’s it.

The System You Actually Need

These five elements—niche clarity, digital presence, networking, follow-up, and simple proposals—form a client acquisition system.

It’s not glamorous. It’s not tactical.
But it works.

To help you apply this system, I’ve created a free downloadable checklist that breaks each point into practical, actionable steps.

? Get the free “5-Point Client Acquisition Checklist” by joining my newsletter,

The Bodyguard Insider.
https://bodyguardinsider.substack.com/

The checklist gives you the framework.
The newsletter helps you stay sharp.

The Illusion of Safety: How to See the World Like a Protection Professional

Personal Protection Jobs

There’s a moment from January 18, 1991, that I’ll never forget. I was standing backstage at the Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro—the largest football stadium in the world at the time—watching a sea of 60,000 people packed into what had been transformed into a massive concert venue for Rock in Rio II. The energy was electric, chaotic, and overwhelming. From the outside, it looked like pure spectacle. From where I stood, it was a carefully orchestrated operation built on layers of planning, timing, and constant awareness.
 
We were protecting Prince during his Brazilian debut, headlining one of the most prestigious music festivals in the world. The festival was being broadcast live to 55 countries, reaching an estimated 580 million viewers. The stakes were as high as they get. And on that night, nothing “bad” happened. No incident. No emergency. No headlines. And that was the entire point.
 
People often assume protection is about reacting to danger—the dramatic moments you see in movies. In reality, the real work happens long before anything goes wrong. The goal was never to look tough or create a scene; it was to make sure nothing happened at all. Success in professional protection is measured by the complete absence of problems.
 
After more than three decades in executive protection, I’ve learned that this principle is the single biggest differentiator between professional-level safety and the way most people think about it. Most people operate on what I call the “Illusion of Safety”—the belief that they are safe until something happens to prove otherwise. A professional operates on the principle of proactive awareness.
 
And here’s the secret: you don’t need a security detail or special training to adopt this mindset. You just need to learn to see the world differently.
 

The Criminal’s Real Advantage

Contrary to what movies tell you, criminals and other bad actors don’t typically look for a physical challenge. They aren’t looking for the strongest or weakest person in the room. They are opportunists, and they look for the path of least resistance.
They look for three things:
 
1.Distraction: The person buried in their phone while walking to their car. The family arguing in a crowded public space. Distraction is an open invitation because it signals a lack of presence.
 
2.Predictability: The person who parks in the same spot every day, takes the same route home, and visits the same coffee shop at the exact same time. Predictable patterns make you an easy target for anyone observing.
 
3.Inattention: This is different from distraction. This is a general lack of awareness of your surroundings. It’s failing to notice the person who entered the restaurant right after you or the car that’s been behind you for the last ten blocks.
 
These three vulnerabilities are the currency of criminals. The good news is that you can eliminate them not with force or fear, but with simple, quiet habits.
 

Thinking Like a Protector: 3 Simple Shifts

Adopting a protector’s mindset isn’t about becoming paranoid; it’s about becoming present. It’s about trading fear for facts and anxiety for awareness. Here are three simple shifts you can make today.
 

1. Master Your Transitions

Transitions are the moments when you are most vulnerable—moving from your car to your office, from a store to the parking lot, from the sidewalk into your home. These are the moments when we are most likely to be distracted, fumbling for keys, or checking our phones.
 
The Shift: Make it a rule to have your “head up and phone away” during transitions. Before you exit your car, take two seconds to scan the area. Before you enter your home, pause briefly and observe your surroundings. This simple habit closes a massive window of opportunity for anyone looking for an easy target.
 

2. Notice Who Doesn’t Belong

In any environment, there is a baseline of normal behavior. In a coffee shop, people are reading, talking, or working on laptops. In a business lobby, people are walking with purpose or waiting for a meeting.

The Shift: Learn to spot anomalies. Don’t focus on faces or try to profile people. Instead, scan for behavior. Who is watching the crowd instead of interacting with it? Who is wearing a heavy coat on a warm day? Who seems to have no logical reason for being there? Trust your intuition. You don’t need proof to decide that something feels off and it’s time to leave.
 

3. Break Your Patterns

Predictability is a form of autopilot. It’s efficient, but it’s also a vulnerability. If someone wants to target you, the easiest way is to know where you will be and when you will be there.
 
The Shift: Make small, deliberate changes to your routine. Park in a different spot at the grocery store. Take a different route home from work once a week. Change the time of your morning coffee run. These small acts of randomness make you a harder target to pattern and force you to be more aware of your new surroundings.
 

Awareness is a Responsibility, Not a Fear

Back at the Maracanã that night in 1991, our job wasn’t to be the toughest people in the stadium. It was to be the most aware. We understood the environment, we anticipated problems before they developed, and we moved with calm confidence. That’s what real situational awareness looks like.
 
It isn’t about living in a state of constant alert. It’s the opposite. It’s a calm, quiet confidence that comes from being connected to your environment. It’s about taking responsibility for your own safety and the safety of those you care about.
Once you understand that, the way you move through the world changes forever.
 
 
To help you put these principles into practice, I’ve created a free, printable checklist: The Everyday Protector Awareness Checklist. It’s a simple tool you can use to build these habits. Download it for free by joining my ‘Bodyguard Insider’ newsletter, where I share regular insights on real-world safety and awareness.
 
Click Below to Download Your Free Checklist and Join the Bodyguard Insider Newsletter
 

Choosing The Right Executive Protection Program: A Look Inside Pacific West Academy

Personal Protection Jobs

By Jordan Gonzalez

The executive protection industry continues to expand rapidly, driven by global uncertainty, increased demand in the private sector, and the growing exposure of public figures and high-net-worth individuals. With growing opportunities comes competition, and the most important step for anyone looking to enter the industry is selecting the right training program.

Whether you’re transitioning from the military or law enforcement or starting fresh, where you choose to receive your foundation training will shape your career path. Not every program offers the same level of quality training, industry access, and long-term value. At Pacific West Academy, we’ve developed a program that not only meets industry standards but sets them.

Here are some things you should look for when choosing the right EP program.

Real World, Scenario-Based Training

 

Theory-based training has its place, but the executive protection industry is a hands-on, high-risk profession. We believe that the best training is learned through repetition, realism, and stress inoculation. That’s why our 10-week Certified Executive Security Specialist (CESS) program immerses students in real-world scenarios.

From Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC) and Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC), and combatives, our students get hands-on training. Every one of our modules is taught by experienced professionals who bring their experience from the field to the classroom.

These leaders don’t just teach students how to run operations, they teach them how to lead one.

Alignment With Industry Standards and Certifications

 

Our training program covers more than the fundamentals of executive protection. Our CESS programs include the following courses needed to excel in the industry:

  • Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC)

  • Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC)

  • Advanced Firearms Training

  • Surveillance and Counter-Surveillance

  • Protective Intelligence and Threat Assessment

  • Residential and Corporate Security

Our program is designed to match and often exceed the current industry standards.

PWA’s curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect current industry practices, operational realities, and the integration of soft skills such as client communication, discretion, and professional demeanor.

Industry Connections and Career Pathways

 

The key factor that sets our academy apart is our direct relationship to the executive protection industry. We don’t just train protectors — we launch careers.

Our staff and instructors maintain active relationships with security firms, risk management companies, and corporate security teams.

Using our alumni network and industry partners, we regularly assist our graduates with job placement, interview preparation, and resume support.

Our students have the opportunity to get hired immediately after graduating — some even receive offers during their training.

Our connection to the field is critical to our students’ employment opportunities after they graduate.

Professional Development and Personal Growth

 

Executive protection is more than just tactics — it’s about discipline, integrity, and leadership under pressure. Our academy was designed to develop the professional, not just the skillset. We’ve witnessed how our students grow, not only in skill but in confidence. Veterans who attend our program find a sense of renewed purpose. Career changers develop new skills. And for many, it’s a life-changing experience.

Throughout our program, our instructors emphasize:

  • Accountability

  • Teamwork

  • Resilience

  • Self-discipline

  • Character building

We hold our students to the same high standard that the industry and clients would expect from them, and in return, they graduate prepared to lead.

Alumni Support and Long-Term Success

 

The Pacific West Academy doesn’t just end at graduation. Our support continues through:

  • Job placement assistance

  • Resume building and interview coaching

  • Access to an active alumni network

  • Ongoing mentorship and resources

Our graduates leave our academy and begin careers in executive protection, estate security, corporate teams, private military contracting, and more. We’re proud to say that our alumni are serving around the world, and many come back to mentor the next generation.

Final Thoughts: Why Pacific West Academy Sets the Standard

 

If you’re serious about starting a career in executive protection, don’t settle for just any program. Choose the school that invests in your future, pushes your limits, and connects you with industry opportunities.

At Pacific West Academy, we are proud to offer a program that does everything to ensure our students are prepared for success. Our goal isn’t just to train you — it’s to transform you into a capable, professional, and respected asset in the industry.

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission. We only recommend programs we trust and believe in

My First Executive Protection Assignment: Lessons from the Summer of ’84

Personal Protection Jobs

The summer of 1984 marked my entry into the world of executive protection, as well as my first executive protection assignment. Fresh-faced and eager, I was tasked with accompanying Prince to Los Angeles. Looking back, I realize how woefully unprepared I was for this assignment. If it weren’t for the guidance of an exceptional security driver named Murray Levy, my first detail would have been an unmitigated disaster.


My boss, affectionately known as “Big Chick,” had faith in my abilities to handle the detail in his absence. However, the truth was that I was nowhere near ready for the responsibilities that awaited me in Los Angeles. The glitz and glamour of protecting a music icon were quickly overshadowed by the realities of the job.


I felt out of my depth from the moment we touched down in LA. The bustling airport, the crowds of fans, and the complex logistics of moving a high-profile client through the city were all new to me. I found myself constantly looking to Murray for guidance, often with a mix of panic and gratitude in my eyes.


Murray, a veteran in the field, seemed to anticipate every challenge before it arose. He navigated the crowded streets of Los Angeles with ease, always keeping one eye on the road and the other on potential security threats. His calm demeanor in high-pressure situations was a stark contrast to my nervous energy.


One particular incident stands out in my memory. We were arriving at the Westwood Marquis Hotel, and as Murray pulled up to the entrance, he turned to me and asked if I had contacted the hotel’s security director. I stared back at him like a deer in headlights, realizing I had completely overlooked this crucial step.

Without missing a beat, Murray reached for the car phone – a rarity at the time – and called the hotel himself. He spoke with the security director, explaining that Prince would be arriving shortly and requesting accommodations for his security team to meet us underground. He also mentioned that I, as Prince’s security, would need to sweep the suite before Prince entered.

Murray then informed me that when we got to the hotel, he’d have Prince stay in the vehicle with him while I went upstairs to inspect the suite.


I was completely out of my depth, but Murray’s professionalism and patience with me, a true greenhorn who had no clue what I was doing, was remarkable. It was a masterclass in advance work and client protection.


Throughout this executive protection assignment, Murray took me under his wing. He patiently explained the intricacies of route planning, the importance of maintaining a low profile, and the art of blending into different environments. His wealth of knowledge was invaluable, and I found myself constantly asking questions, eager to absorb every bit of information I could about the nuances of executive protection.


One of the most important lessons I learned from Murray was the value of preparation. He taught me to always have multiple contingency plans, to know the layout of every venue before we arrived, and to anticipate potential security risks.

This level of preparedness became the foundation of my approach to executive protection for years to come.


Another crucial lesson was the importance of discretion. Murray emphasized that our job was not just to protect but also to ensure our client’s privacy and comfort. He showed me how to be present without being intrusive, a skill that took time to master but proved invaluable throughout my career.


As the executive protection assignment progressed, I began to find my footing. With Murray’s guidance, I learned to read situations more effectively, communicate efficiently with the rest of the Prince’s entourage, and make quick decisions under pressure. By the end of the detail, I had gained a newfound confidence in my abilities.


Looking back on that summer in Los Angeles, I realize how fortunate I was to have had Murray as a mentor. His patience, expertise, and willingness to share his knowledge shaped my entire career in executive protection. The lessons I learned from him – to always be prepared, to stay calm under pressure, to be discreet, and to never stop learning – have stayed with me throughout my professional journey.


My first executive protection assignment taught me the value of humility in this field. It showed me that no matter how confident you might feel, there’s always more to learn. I discovered that being a “sponge” – absorbing knowledge from more experienced colleagues – was not a sign of weakness, but a crucial part of professional growth.


In the years since that summer of ’84, I’ve had the privilege of working on countless high-profile assignments. Each one has brought its own unique challenges and learning opportunities.

But none have had quite the same impact as that first detail with Prince and Murray in Los Angeles.


To those just starting in the field of executive protection, my advice is this: don’t be afraid to ask questions. Seek out mentors who are willing to share their knowledge. Be humble, be observant, and always be ready to learn.

Remember, even the most seasoned professionals were once beginners. It’s not about how much you know when you start; it’s about how much you’re willing to learn along the way.

That summer in Los Angeles may have been my first assignment, but it laid the groundwork for everything that followed. It taught me that in executive protection, success is not just about physical skills or tactical knowledge. It’s about adaptability, discretion, preparedness, and above all, a willingness to learn from those around you.

Are you looking to propel your protection career to new heights? Discover a wealth of resources designed to guide you through the complexities of the EP industry.

Whether you want to enhance your skills, stay ahead of the latest trends, or find innovative solutions to security challenges, we’ve got you covered. Click on the links below to explore and unlock the potential for your professional growth today.

Harlan Austin
Executive Protection Books
Professional Services

Protecting a Prince: The Unsung Heroes Behind the Purple Curtain

Personal Protection Jobs

When we think of Prince, we often picture the musical genius on stage, captivating audiences with his unparalleled talent.

But behind every great artist stands a team of dedicated professionals working tirelessly to ensure their safety and success.
For Prince, this meant a select brotherhood of bodyguards who protected him throughout his career.

These men worked in the shadows, rarely receiving public recognition for their crucial role in Prince’s life and career.
As a former member of this elite group (Prince’s fourth bodyguard), I want to shed light on these unsung heroes who played a major part in Prince’s success.

Contrary to popular belief, Charles “Big Chick” Huntsberry was not Prince’s first bodyguard.

That honor belongs to Ross “Rosie” Licata, who protected the young artist in the early days of his career. Big Chick, my mentor, would later join the team and become one of Prince’s most recognizable protectors.
Over the years, Prince employed over 20 bodyguards, each bringing their own unique skills and personalities to the job.

From Wally Safford and Gilbert Davison to Aaron Liepins and C.G. Chilton, these men formed a tight-knit group dedicated to keeping Prince safe while allowing him the freedom to create and perform.
Interestingly, Prince’s security team was a diverse group in terms of experience.

Some, like myself, came to the job with no prior protection experience, learning on the job and growing into the role.
Others were seasoned protection veterans or came from law enforcement backgrounds.

This mix of perspectives and skills created a well-rounded team capable of handling any situation.

The job of protecting Prince was not just about physical security. It required a deep understanding of the artist’s needs, habits, and creative process. We had to be invisible when necessary, yet always alert and ready to act.

Our duties ranged from crowd control at concerts to managing overzealous fans and ensuring Prince’s privacy in his most vulnerable moments.
We also had to deal with more serious threats, including death threats from religious zealots who opposed Prince’s provocative image and lyrics.

Some notable bodyguards who served Prince include:

  • Gilbert Davison, who later became Prince’s manager and president of Paisley Park
  • Duane Nelson, Prince’s half-brother, who protected him for many years.
  • Kirk Johnson, a longtime friend who also served as Prince’s drummer and estate manager.

These men, along with many others, formed a protective circle around Prince that allowed him to focus on his art without worrying about his safety or privacy.

They were more than just employees; they were confidants, friends, and in some cases, family.

The life of a bodyguard for a superstar like Prince was not easy. It meant long hours, constant travel, and being away from our own families.
But it also provided us with a front-row seat to musical history and the opportunity to work with one of the greatest artists of our time.

As we remember Prince’s legacy, let’s also take a moment to appreciate the men who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make his career possible.
Prince’s bodyguards were an essential part of his success story from the early days with Rosie Licata to the final years with Kirk Johnson.

To my fellow bodyguards who served Prince over the years: your dedication, professionalism, and sacrifice did not go unnoticed. You may not have stood in the spotlight, but your contributions to Prince’s life and career were immeasurable. This article is dedicated to you, the unsung heroes who protected a Prince.

Here’s the full list of Prince’s protectors over the years:

1. Ross (Rosie) Licata
2. Charles (Big Chick) Huntsberry
3. Wally Safford
4. Harlan (Hucky) Austin
5. Gilbert Davison
6. William (Bill) Snouffer
7. Duane Nelson
8. Derrick Henry
9. Joey Guzman
10. Donald Cartwright
11. Tracy Jacobs
12. C.G. Chilton
13. Aaron Freeman
14. Aaron Liepins
15. Andre Augustine
16. Earl Gabbidon
17. Trevor Allen
18. Raul Sandoval
19. Zachery (Scott) March
20. Nasser Mercalfe
21. Chris (Romeo) Gaither
22. Julius Yancey
23. Kirk Johnson

These individuals played a unique role in protecting and supporting Prince throughout his legendary career. Those who knew Prince best will always remember their dedication and service.

Are you looking to propel your protection career to new heights? Discover a wealth of resources designed to guide you through the complexities of the EP industry.

Whether you want to enhance your skills, stay ahead of the latest trends, or find innovative solutions to security challenges, we’ve got you covered. Click on the links below to explore and unlock the potential for your professional growth today.

Harlan Austin
Executive Protection Books
Professional Services

 

Why Choosing a Career in Executive Protection Might Not Be Ideal

Personal Protection Jobs

Choosing to work in executive protection can pose challenges and demands that may not be a good fit for everyone’s career path. Here are a few factors that could make it seem like a less-than-ideal choice for some people:

  1. High Stress and Pressure: The nature of the job requires constant vigilance and the ability to manage high-stress situations. Protectors are responsible for the safety of high-profile clients, and any mistake can have severe consequences. The pressure to perform flawlessly at all times can be overwhelming.
  2. Long and Unpredictable Hours: Executive protection often involves irregular and extended hours. You may be on call 24/7, and the job often includes nights, weekends, and holidays. The unpredictability of the client’s schedule can make it difficult to maintain a work-life balance.
  3. Physical and Mental Demands: The role can be physically exhausting, requiring long hours of standing, walking, or even engaging in physically demanding protective tasks. Additionally, the mental toll of constant vigilance and risk assessment can lead to burnout.
  4. Risk of Danger: Although the primary goal is to avoid confrontations, the reality is that working in executive protection can involve dangerous situations, especially when dealing with high-risk clients or volatile environments. The potential for physical harm is always present.
  5. Isolation and Loneliness: The job can be isolating. Protectors often spend significant time away from home, working in unfamiliar environments, and may have limited social interactions outside of the professional setting. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and disconnect.
  6. Lack of Recognition: Despite the critical nature of the work, executive protection professionals often work in the background, with their efforts going unnoticed unless something goes wrong. The lack of recognition can be demotivating for some individuals.
  7. High Personal Sacrifice: The demands of the job can lead to personal sacrifices, including strained relationships and missed family events. The dedication required for the job can sometimes come at the expense of personal happiness and well-being.

Executive protection is seen as crucial and esteemed; however the obstacles it presents can turn it into a demanding and potentially unappealing career choice for some individuals. Those contemplating entering this profession must thoroughly evaluate these challenges in light of their abilities, lifestyle choices and professional aspirations. 

In my experience working in protection may have its challenges but it’s a truly fulfilling and rewarding career path that I’ve found enriching and satisfying personally.

Ensuring the safety of others while improving your skills and encountering scenarios provides a deep sense of gratification for those suited to this profession. Building relationships with coworkers and clients as well as finding purpose in your work are just some of the aspects that make this line of work so special and unique.

Executive protection may not be suitable for everyone; however if you possess the attitude and commitment along with the necessary skills and dedication required for this field of work then you could find it to be a rewarding career choice! Personally speaking from experience; I have found that the benefits of this profession far surpass the challenges it presents; hence making it a viable career option to ponder upon.

Perhaps you will discover, as I have, that the rewards far outweigh the difficulties, making it a career path worth considering.

Are you looking to propel your protection career to new heights? Discover a wealth of resources designed to guide you through the complexities of the EP industry.

Whether you want to enhance your skills, stay ahead of the latest trends, or find innovative solutions to security challenges, we’ve got you covered. Click on the links below to explore and unlock the potential for your professional growth today.

Harlan Austin
Executive Protection Books
Professional Services

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