Completing a Level 3 Close Protection Course is a legal requirement for working as a Close Protection Operative (CPO). However, training and securing work as a CPO are different challenges.
Blue Mountain Group (BMG) has created this roadmap to help newly qualified CPOs prepare for Close Protection (CP) work. Learn how to successfully transition from completing your qualification to securing a new position in the security industry.
1) Start Building Your Reputation and Network Early
Creating a solid network and building your reputation is a must. While this article is about securing work after your training. The best thing you can do off the bat is to prepare yourself before you finish your training.
Networking starts the moment you start training. At BMG, we help delegates by promoting networking as part of our training. It’s all about leveraging your contacts as much as possible.
You won't find jobs for Close Protection posted on platforms like Monster or Indeed. Most of the time, you will find them through connections you have made. Business networking platforms like LinkedIn are a gold mine for job seekers.
We also invite guest speakers and industry professionals during our Close Protection courses. Delegates have the opportunity to learn and connect with these security experts. Attending industry events also gives you access to people who can help.
Takeaway:
Networking as much as possible will give you a head start in securing work. The foundation of your CP career begins when you enrol in a CPO course. Build relationships proactively, as your network will become your greatest asset.
2) Make a Strong First Impression
"We tell delegates from the start—this course will be brutal. It’s essentially a three-week interview with Blue Mountain Group. You must impress our trainers and staff because your CPO journey begins here."
The security industry is all about your reputation. The best approach is to make a great impression, regardless of where you work. This approach also applies to your training at BMG.
You’ll also need to build a professional portfolio. An entry-level position will help you get a foothold in the security industry. Here are some roles you can do to get started and work with your first client:
- Event security
- Residential Security
- Transportation Protection
Residential CPO roles are a great place to start your CPO career. These positions can help you build a reputation without the pressure of directly handling high-profile clients.
Takeaway:
Prioritise professionalism and reliability in every industry interaction. This professionalism also applies during your Close Protection training, first impressions count. Remember that your first assignment can set the tone for your career ahead.
3) Understand the Realities of the Job
At BMG, we are demystifying the industry. We love to tell the actual narrative of what it’s like to work as a CPO. The job involves long hours and early mornings. Also, you might have to work with demanding clients.
“We provide honest feedback. From day one, we help delegates understand the reality of the job. It’s not glamorous. By setting realistic expectations, our graduates are better prepared, which makes them stand out to clients."
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be buffed up and look intimidating to work in Close Protection security. Indeed, if you stand out in the wrong way, looking overly 'security-like', you can become a target.
Every client wants a CPO who can hit the ground running and be up to speed from the start. We help you understand the real pressures you will face and prepare you for your first job. We want you to present yourself in the best possible light.
Competition can be fierce, and we don’t want your CV to stay at the bottom of the pile. We can support you by personalising your CV and cover letter. We also help delegates with interview preparation and job application strategies. Be proactive in asking us for help. We are here to help delegates but they can’t expect hand outs.
Takeaway:
Approach your security career with a realistic mindset to what the job involves. Knowing the challenges upfront will prepare you to excel and adapt on the job. Spend time on your CV and seek support from BMG to help you.
4) Remember That Adaptability and Versatility Are Key Skills
Core competencies such as decision-making, physical fitness, and situational awareness are essential. However, life skills are also crucial for a successful Close Protection career.
The best operatives blend into their environment while adapting to client needs. For example, there are three key soft skills that employers value in the industry:
- Communication
- Adaptability
- Client Relationship Management
On top of this, it’s also worth noting that you may have transferable skills. Even if you don’t come from a security background, roles like teaching or team management have valuable parallels to being a CPO.
Once you have secured work in the industry, don’t stop learning and growing. You can do other security courses to enhance your profile and make it more attractive to clients. Also, remember to maintain your certifications so you can legally work.
Takeaway:
Focus on developing your soft skills like adaptability and attentiveness. These skills will make you indispensable to clients. You might also have other transferable skills your clients will value. Always think about developing further in your career.
5) Keep in Touch and Leverage Ongoing Support
You don’t have to disappear when the training ends and head off into the security industry alone. In our experience, the delegates who have kept in touch with us have created successful relationships that can lead to job opportunities.
Staying connected allows us to support our delegates when they need it. For example, our company recently connected one delegate from a course with a surveillance job because they had stayed in touch.
“The team at BMG is deeply invested in the success of its graduates. We have trainers and staff who bring decades of experience and industry connections. It’s not just about training for us. It’s about building long-term relationships with our graduates to support them on their career journeys.”
We like to connect our graduates with clients and employers whenever possible. Because BMG has an excellent reputation in the security industry, we hear about new roles as soon as they appear. Staying in touch with us is key!
Takeaway:
Connecting with mentors and trainers from Blue Mountain Group can give you access to new opportunities and invaluable advice. Staying connected keeps you on their radar, so you will be in their mind when a suitable job arises.
Get Ready to Maximise Your Close Protection Career
At BMG, we want our graduates to excel in their careers in Close Protection. Securing CP work doesn’t happen by accident. This roadmap will prepare you to secure Close Protection work after training.
Being adaptable, networking and staying proactive from day one of your training will give you a clear head start. Also, using BMG’s network and support to help you stay relevant and connected in the industry can help you open more doors of opportunity.
Are you thinking about a career in close protection? Do your research, go check us out, then get in touch and ask us questions. We’re here to help. If you want to start a career in Close Protection and would like to discuss your options, contact us here.
Learn more about our Close Protection courses and download your free guide here.