Educational Articles

Though everyone may have a different specific reason for employing a bodyguard, the job requirements are often the same. There are several typical characteristics of a bodyguard, and they are of different importance to everyone. For some, courage is the most important, for others it could be size. No matter what characteristics you may specifically look for in a bodyguard, there are definitely those that make for the most successful and effective ones.

The first thing people see when they are in the midst of a celebrity, be it a movie star or politician, is often a bodyguard or two. This first glance can be intimidating, especially if the bodyguard is six foot five with arms the size of small tree trunks. This threatening appearance is enough to warn most people from threatening their client, so size and stature is important. That is not to say that a smaller person couldn’t be a good bodyguard. Anyone of any size can be a protection agent, however the smaller ones may be called out to prove it more often. A public figure looking for an effective bodyguard may be more inclined to choose brawn over other qualities for intimidation factor alone.

Quick reflexes are important for a good bodyguard to have. A split second of hesitation could cost the client trauma or even death. With lightning-fast reflexes, a bodyguard that hears a gunshot can have the client out of harm’s way before the second bullet is out of the chamber. On that same note, a bodyguard should have a sharp eye and be constantly looking out for his surroundings. It is this quality that could help identify and stop a would-be attacker or assassin before the assault begins.

Bodyguards spend a lot of time in the public eye, often with well-respected members of the business or political arena. They must know how to act in the many different situations that may come up and how to represent their client in a professional manner. Additionally, bodyguards that are part of a service should remember that they are always advertising. Friends or associates of clients may also be looking for personal protection and ask the clients for a recommendation. Unprofessional bodyguards can reflect poorly on the client and the agency they represent.

Confidence is an imperative quality of a decent bodyguard. When you look at pictures or video of celebrities, politicians, or professional athletes with their entourage, you can always pick out the personal protection agents. They are the ones with serious expressions and a confident walk that tells the world that they know where their client is going and that they will lead the way. A good bodyguard is never surprised and handles every situation, even ones that no one saw coming, as if they knew exactly what was going to happen.

Truthfully, there is no cookie-cutter mold for the best characteristics of a bodyguard. However, whether you are looking for bodyguard or seeking to be one, there is a typical profile that most follow. Tall in stature, trained in self-defense, physically fit, intelligent, professional and confident are just a few of the qualities that are usually important to most people that employ professional bodyguards. It is important to remember when looking for a bodyguard or preparing to work as one that they are an extension of the client’s associates and should know how to carry themselves as such.

Source: http://www.positivearticles.com/blog