Recently, one of my co-workers witnessed a bouncer in a bar in Lowertown,
St. Paul Minnesota. This gentleman no doubt thought he was doing his job;
but in fact he was making matters worse by physically shoving patrons who
were already cooperating; buttoning up their coats, and starting to leave.
The bouncer was actually inciting more anger from the customers, and
creating more of a disturbance for the other patrons of the bar!
Now, I know that many individuals in the Executive Protection business
don’t consider door security or bouncers to be in the same league—I’ve had
individuals express to me that any connection between the two worlds is
somehow derogatory to the profession.
I would, however, like to point out that many a prior bouncer or club
security individual has gone on to become extremely successful EP
specialists (READ BGC ARTICLE: Interview with Elijah Shaw, July, 2008).
Bouncer work is a rung on the ladder; and for many, a stepping stone
towards a successful career.
Here’s my point; success in any job at any level, begets more success. If
you take pride in your work and educate yourself to be the best bouncer or
security guard for miles, you will be noticed. I meet people all the time.
I pay attention to the security folks and the people at the door. Only a
very few ever impress me with their work—but the ones that do—I remember.
I have made it a point to learn their names or to even obtain contact
information. These are individuals who are not only good at their work,
but show up looking professional, have fantastic people skills, and great
attitudes. They know how to communicate with people without EVER having to
put their hands on them. It’s so basic to understanding how to succeed as
a bouncer.
If I can offer any thoughts as we approach a New Year, it’s this; assume
that at every turn you have the opportunity to move up in the world.
Conquer the skills needed for the job you do have, and learn all that you
can. Have as a goal that you want to receive the greatest letter of
recommendation possible from your employer. Make a strategy for yourself;
start at a small, local club and work up to more high-end establishments
where you can meet upscale clientele. Then, transition to a bigger city
where you have more opportunities for your fantastic, polished skills to
be recognized and rewarded. Go to where the wealthy, the famous and those
in need of protection live, work and play. Ready yourself for YOUR “big
break.” It may or may not happen for you, but if you don’t plan and
prepare for it, then rest assured, it will never happen!
Plan big for yourself for 2009—plan to take the small, very necessary
steps that will take you to the top.
