The Power of Financial Security in Your Executive Protection Career.

Recently, my bank offered a 5.5% interest rate on a 10-month certificate of deposit (CD). My normal investment strategy does not include CDs, but I felt this was a good deal and shared it with my family and friends. That inspired me to convey how, in my humble opinion, financial security is an element that often goes hand in hand with professional success.  

Please keep in mind that this is not legal or investment advice.  I am merely offering it as a point to consider before purchasing that next piece of equipment you may not genuinely need, but may simply desire.

As a security professional working on a contract basis, learning financial responsibility is essential, particularly when starting your career in this challenging field.  It could mean the difference between a long and rewarding career or a stressful experience in an industry rife with challenges. 

Below I outline ten compelling reasons why being financially secure can significantly enhance your performance as a protection specialist.

1. Selectivity and Professionalism: Empowers you to be more selective in the contracts or jobs you accept. You can decline opportunities that do not align with your professional goals or compromise your values. This selectivity ensures that you maintain a high standard of professionalism and integrity in your work, contributing to your overall success and reputation.
2. Enhanced Training and Skill Development: Allows you to invest in advanced training programs, certifications, and skill development workshops. By continuously improving your expertise, you become a more competent and valuable asset to your clients, providing them with top-notch executive protection services.
3. Access to Cutting-Edge Equipment and Resources: Enables you to acquire state-of-the-art equipment and resources necessary for effective executive protection. Whether it's the latest surveillance technology, protective gear, or secure communication systems, having access to these resources ensures you can deliver the highest level of security to your clients.
4. Reliability and Consistency: You can focus solely on your job without taking on unnecessary side gigs to make ends meet. This allows you to maintain a consistent approach to your work, ensuring your clients can rely on you for reliable and exceptional service.
5. Preparedness for Emergencies: enables you to establish an emergency fund, ensuring that you are prepared for unforeseen circumstances. This fund can provide a safety net in case of unexpected job disruptions or personal emergencies, allowing you to remain focused and perform effectively in your role.
6. Networking and Professional Growth: Provides you with the means to attend industry conferences, networking events, and professional associations. By actively engaging with peers and industry leaders, you can build a robust professional network, open doors to new opportunities, and foster personal growth within the executive protection industry.
7. Reduced Stress and Improved Decision-Making: Alleviates the stress associated with financial uncertainty, enabling you to make clear and rational decisions even in high-pressure situations. This clarity of mind enables you to think strategically, analyze risks, and make well-informed decisions in high-pressure situations, ultimately enhancing your effectiveness as a security professional.
8. Personal Development and Self-Care: Allows you to invest in personal development and self-care, both of which are crucial for maintaining optimal performance. You can prioritize activities such as physical fitness, mental wellness, and personal hobbies, which contribute to your overall well-being and job performance.
9. Long-Term Financial Planning: Being financially secure provides the opportunity to engage in long-term financial planning. You can set aside funds for retirement, create investment portfolios, or establish other financial goals. This planning not only ensures your own financial well-being but also allows you to focus on your job without constant worry about future financial obligations.
10. Confidence and Professional Image: Fosters a sense of confidence and professionalism that translates into your work. When clients perceive you as financially responsible and secure, they trust your abilities and feel more at ease entrusting their safety to you. This confidence boosts your professional image, leading to more significant opportunities and career advancement.

As a result of practicing financial responsibility and striving to achieve financial independence, you will have the opportunity to select your employment options more carefully, invest in training, and maintain a high level of professionalism, resulting in greater performance and greater value for your employer or client. 

While this does not guarantee your success in this or any other field, it may give you an advantage over those you are competing with.   Like the old adage says, “You don’t have to run faster than the bear to get away. You just have to run faster than the guy next to you.” 

Good Luck!

Gerard Boniello, CPP, is the President of Omnium Protection Group, a privately owned, Massachusetts-based security service provider specializing in executive security services. Gerard is the Vice-Chairman of The Board of Executive Protection Professionals, an organization focused on developing the first ANSI-certified Standard for executive protection. 

For more info, please visit Omnium Protection Group and the Board of Executive Protection Professionals.