My Ten Pieces of Advice For Anyone Considering a Career as a Close Protection Operative

Stepping into the World of Close Protection: Your Guide to a Rewarding Career

It’s not just about sunglasses, suits, and earpieces. Close protection is a career that demands discipline, discretion, and dedication. If you're considering taking your first steps into the private security industry as a Close Protection Operative (CPO), here are my ten pieces of honest advice. These insights come from my experience, my observations, my mistakes, and some hard-learned lessons.

1. Know Why You Want to Do It

This isn’t a job you "fall into." Whether it’s a natural progression from a career in the armed forces, a sense of responsibility, or the chance to work internationally, you need a solid reason. When the hours are long and the environment is hostile, your “why” will keep you focused.

2. Invest in Your Training, Don’t Just Do the Minimum

Don’t stop at the bare minimum. Your “Close Protection” license is your entry ticket, not your passport to success. Adding good CPD (Continuous Professional Development) to your CV will seriously set you apart. When companies review CVs, additional qualifications like medical training, defensive driving, surveillance, and information technology/cyber awareness add massive value.

3. Stay Fit, Mentally and Physically

Fitness isn’t just about looking good; it’s about being alert, agile, and resilient. A sound body supports a sharp mind, especially under pressure. Mental resilience is equally important when operating in unfamiliar, stressful, or dangerous environments. Remember, muscle looks good, but a good cardiovascular system will set you apart when things go wrong. And they do go wrong.

4. Develop Your Soft Skills

The best CPOs are not just physically capable; they’re emotionally intelligent as well. Listening without interrupting, observing your surroundings, and communicating effectively with your team and the public are far more valuable day-to-day than brute force alone. Empathy and de-escalation skills can make all the difference.

5. Understand the Industry, Not Just the Job

Learn how the private security world operates. Familiarize yourself with the roles, clients, risks, and regulations. Read up on laws, licensing bodies, and current threats. A well-informed operative who understands the industry and their powers regarding the use of force is more reliable.

6. You Are Always Representing the Client

Whether you’re in a five-star hotel lobby or stuck in airport security, your appearance, attitude, and conduct reflect directly on your principal. Act accordingly at all times. Don’t switch off; remain vigilant, plan ahead, and keep the team leader or principal informed.

7. Network Relentlessly; Reputation is Everything

In this industry, jobs often come from recommendations, not adverts. Be professional, reliable, and build your network with integrity. However, ensure you don’t allow people to take advantage of you. Maintain a balance between professionalism and assertiveness.

8. Expect Sacrifices

Long hours, extended deployments, and unpredictable schedules are part of the job. Be prepared to miss birthdays, holidays, and home comforts. While you should be earning a good wage, remember that it’s not just you making these sacrifices. A simple gesture, like sending flowers to your partner, can help maintain harmony at home.

9. Every Day Is A Learning Day, and Every Detail Matters

Threats evolve, and so should you. Review incidents, read case studies, attend refresher courses, and learn from those with more experience. Stay humble and curious. When starting a new task, learn as much as you can about the principal, including their likes, dislikes, and quirks. Trust me, this will help you in the long run.

10. You’re Not There to Be a Hero

This job isn’t about ego or excitement. It’s about responsibility. Remember, you’re not Jason Bourne or James Bond. We are there to protect quietly, professionally, and without becoming the centre of attention.

To Summarise My Ten Points

Close protection can be one of the most rewarding careers out there. You will earn a good salary and provide for your family, but only if you are prepared, committed, and professional. If that sounds like you, then I wish you all the luck in the world.

If you want more information on the industry or wish to share your own knowledge, why not join The Operators Club? This platform is set up to help build our knowledge. The Operators Club is free to join and allows you to build your professional network and share your insights.

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