In Close Protection, it isn’t impossible to detail all the rules, regulations, competencies, direction, guidance, techniques, drills, issues, procedures, processes and structures to guarantee an individual is a successful Close Protection Operative. However, this article should be viewed as a ‘one-stop shop’ to give you some instant CP guidance to prevent you from making the most common mistakes. By following these rules, you are likely to secure a job, keep a job and impress the Principal and everyone you come into contact with. Here are the rules, and softer skills, which Geoffrey Padgham consider to be vital to the CP operative:
The Golden Rules of Close Protection
Always be punctual ( At least 15 minutes early)
Be immaculately and appropriately dressed
Do not out-dress the Principal
Always maintain the highest standards of personal hygiene
Be tactful and diplomatic
Maintain a calm and confident temperament
Be professional at all times
Remember you are a Close Protection Operative, not a servant
Blend in and be anonymous as the grey man or woman
If you think you are in the wrong place, you probably are
If you think you have said the wrong thing, you probably have
Give the Principal space whenever possible
Generally, speak when spoken to
Silence is golden
Don’t lie, be honest and don’t waffle
Don’t make idle and silly conversation
Don’t overtly ‘listen’ to private conversations
Practice a ‘no news’ is ‘good news’ policy
Be prepared, or you must be prepared to fail
Be forward thinking – one step ahead of the game
Time spent on reconnaissance is never wasted
Always be prepared to communicate, negotiate and compromise
Practice empathetic assertiveness
Generally, if the Principal leaves late, then they arrive late
Be assertive and decisive when necessary
Be prepared to justify decisions
No crude jokes or inappropriate humour with the Principal or staff
No swearing
Do not lose your temper as you instantly lose the argument
Avoid the over-familiarity trap
Always maintain a professional relationship with the Principal
Try to avoid discussing politics and religion
Don’t drink alcohol on duty
Go to the toilet when you can, and not when you want to
Do not smoke on duty
Do not chew gum on duty
Relax, or if you cannot relax – look like you are relaxed!
Be yourself
Enjoy the job
Close Protection – The Softer Skills
Geoffrey Padgham MVO
The text for this article was taken from Geoff’s book ‘Close Protection – The Softer Skills’. The book can be purchased from Entertainment Technology Press at www.etbooks.co.uk and click on ‘Security’ publications for further information.
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