Bodyguard job hunting is a job in itself, and there are many ways of going about it. Job agencies, sending out resumes and posting ads are the traditional ways to get a BG and they still work. However, there are more ways to hunt for a bodyguard job. Use the bodyguard job hunter’s checklist below for your assistance.
1. Direct approach; knocking on the door of the corporation you are interested in working for and dropping off your resume personally. This may be done whether they have posted an bodyguard job opening or not. This is called “cold calling” contacting the corporate bodyguard department or executive protection unit directly to find out if they foresee any upcoming vacancies.
2. Most bodyguard jobs are not advertised; for this reason it is a good idea to send your resume out to corporations at random. There are always hidden BG jobs waiting to be discovered out there.
3. The old standby networking; however I believe it should be done with a new twist. Don’t ask everyone you meet you are looking for a job, first develop a relationship with that persons, let them know what resources and expertise you bring to the table. How you can help them, and not how they can help you. The more people you develop a relationship and know what you bring to the table the more opportunities you will have.
4. Target overseas companies; don’t be afraid to send your resume to overseas corporations if you are not having any luck locally. Make a list of overseas companies in the areas of operation that you would like to work. Call these overseas companies directly to see if they have any bodyguard job openings.
5. Meet directly with bodyguards; put on some professional attire and meet up with bodyguards that you have met on the social networks (Facebook, LinkedIn, etc). Again, tell them how you can assist them with their operations locally and overseas. Don’t ask for a job, build a friendship, but do bring your resume for his or her review and for verification of your bodyguard training and experience so they know you are a legitimate professional.
6. Look for temporary bodyguard employment; these type of jobs can be found at boxing, mix martial arts (MMA) events, concerts and cultural entertainment and beauty pageants, anywhere there is a need for bodyguards due to local or international stars, celebrities, VIP’s and famous individuals being in attendance. Obtaining a temporary bodyguard job at one of these events, get your foot in the door, you may be called upon for future work or it can lead to permanent bodyguard position.
I hope this has been of assistance and I wish you all Good Luck on your bodyguard job hunt. Keep safe and God speed.
http://www.trafford.com/Bookstore/BookDetail.aspx?Book=182707
http://www.amazon.com/Corporate-Executive-Protection-Inspiring-Bodyguards/dp/1425135927
http://international-corporate-executive-protection.com/order.asp
Hi Vince: Great to hear from you. Yes, Hucky, Bodyguard Careers and I try to give the best possible advice to hard working, dedicated and upwardly mobile BGs. Keep advancing! All the Best.
James: Hope you are doing well. Thank you for the nice comments. Yes, the direct approach is the hardest and makes us all feel the most uncomfortable, but like you I’ve got on some great EP teams this way. Keep Safe!
Great advice again Doc! The pointers you and Hucky have put into these articles have helped me trumendously in advancing my career. It is hard sometimes finding work and it would be even harder if not for the tips you guys have shared that I have used successfully. Thanks again Doc!!
I know # 1 or the “Direct Approach” is uncomfortable for a lot of people, especially those new to the industry, but it has always served me best. Believe me, it does get easier over time.
Great advice as usual Doc!
Jim
A big roger on that, Doc!
Alonzo: Yes. Its not all about “me”, but what I can do for “you” and the “team.” Keep Safe and God speed.
Couldn’t agree more with that “new twist” in # 3.