Something for the those looking at a new career path

It’s time to decide what you are going to with your new life in the big wide world.A daunting task in itself and something you want to get right from the very start of your new journey.
For me it was easy, focus on my strengths and having had previous experience investigating bad practices and achieving a successful outcome, I decided on the role of a Private investigator would suit me down to the ground.

As a Private investigator you could be employed to work in a variety of cases such as corporate investigations, fraud, family disputes, the list goes on and all have different skill set requirements and responsibilities.

It is vitally important to first research training providers, compare then commit. Try to avoid Internet forums as your primary means of research, Magazines such the one you are reading now will help point you in the right direction. Providers such as Argus Europe and ISS are some of the more respected in their field and all come with a BTEC Level 3 qualification awarded by Edexel.

I chose Argus Europe which offered Close Protection, Advanced surveillance, and First Person on Scene, on the same course. In order to get a more comprehensive understanding of the law I attended a course run by RMH
Training to become an Accredited Counter Fraud specialist, this qualification is a must if you want to work for local government such as investigating Benefit fraud for example.

From these courses you will also benefit from that all important aspect when embarking on any new venture, Networking! Try to avoid networking to just your mates in the regiment, expand outside your comfort zone, civvies don't bite and you are about to become one too.

Now you have the courses and qualifications, the networking is evolving and with it is your marketing strategy but
now you will need to focus on equipment for the purpose of investigation and gathering evidence. You can no longer pop down to the Stores and sign yourself out a digital camera with an expensive 70 to 200 mm fast zoom lens for that all important "Money Shot", be prepared to invest in the right equipment as it’s not cheap!

Tracking and Recording Devices, Radios, surveillance platform (car) the list can go on and It can prove to be very costly if you don't do your research properly. You don't need the latest gadgets with all the whistles and bells attached, as long as you have the correct training, again with the right training providers such as ISS who offer an excellent surveillance photography course.

Remember the old saying all the gear and no idea, it still applies outside. keep on top of your continuation training for your chosen career, Network, be proactive and it will pay off. Good luck!

Read this Article in Quest magazine. March 2013
http://www.questonline.co.uk/topics/Surveillance/Article/
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