An executive protection agent should not only have knowledge of security protocols and techniques but also possess excellent interpersonal skills as well as a strong presence. Here are a few specific areas to look for when assessing potential candidates.
1. Professional Experience
An effective executive protection agent should have experience in the security field and a minimum of five years of relevant work experience. It is important to consider their prior positions, including any roles that involve risk management, strategic planning, or executive protection. Additionally, as a High Net-Worth individual, having a real-time security presence is often necessary, so experience in that area is also beneficial. Also, take into account any specialized training or certifications the candidate may have. While these may vary depending on the industry, some common certifications include Certified Protection Professional (CPP), Physical Security Professional (PSP), or Personal Protection Specialist (PPS).
2. Communication Skills
Besides physical abilities, having a sharp eye, and good judgment, agents also need to have excellent communication skills. Effective executive protection personnel needs to be able to communicate effectively with people from all walks of life and in various settings. They must be able to calmly assess situations and act quickly if necessary; the best agents can do this while staying diplomatic and professional. In addition, they should have strong negotiation skills so that they are able to resolve any disputes without escalating them into more serious issues. Finally, they should possess the ability to coordinate with other team members while maintaining proper protocols.
3. Physical Abilities
They should possess superior physical abilities, such as strength, speed, agility, and endurance. These are skills that can't be taught, agents must naturally possess them in order to be successful. Executive protection agents need to have the ability to react quickly and calmly in any situation they encounter. Additionally, they must understand how their decisions will affect those around them and act accordingly. This includes maintaining a professional demeanor at all times and making sure that the client's safety is not put at risk.
4. Adaptability
A good and professional agent needs to be able to rapidly adapt and respond to changes in the environment or threats against the person being protected. When a situation requires a quick response, an experienced EP Agent should instinctively know what steps are needed and have the ability to take action quickly. They should also be able to identify potential risks before they become serious issues and develop strategies for avoiding them if possible. It's also important to ensure that they have the necessary training and certifications required in the industry.
Choosing the right Executive Protection Agent is an important task, and it requires careful consideration of a variety of factors. Look for candidates who have relevant experience in the security field, possess excellent communication and negotiation skills, demonstrate superior physical abilities, and are able to remain calm under pressure. The best EP Agents will have all these qualities--and more--and will be invaluable assets to any team.