Personal Security in California: What You Need to Know Before Hiring a Bodyguard

With so many unknown variables in today’s world, including in California, personal security is at the forefront of everyone’s minds. But not everyone is in the position to hire a bodyguard. 

When the need for safety becomes an essential part of your life, though, it can be challenging to determine the best protection for your unique situation. In this article, we’ll share the information you need to know to hire the right security team for your threat level.

Look for Reputation Along With Knowledge

Security companies may boast about their discretion and protective capabilities, but then they hire anyone off the street with a background that “sort of” fits. In other cases, the company has a great reputation for safety, but they don’t know the laws about security in your state. For instance, someone licensed as a private patrol operator can’t be hired to directly investigate your concerns — only to protect, watch, and guard you.

Different states have licensing and firearms qualification laws, background checks, training hours, and other regulatory specifics for various bodyguard levels, from bouncers to armed guards. Some states don’t have any regulations. These laws change frequently, and your security company must stay on top of those licensing requirements.

The ideal bodyguard is highly skilled with a top reputation in the field and experience as a personal bodyguard in California. They’ll know how to conduct a risk assessment to match your protective needs to the legalities allowed in your state (for more details on risk assessments, check out this article by Security Explorer).

Check For Background and Education

When you think of a bodyguard, you probably picture someone with brawn and reflexes. But the mind and the ability to think outside the box play a significant part in the role of a well-trained security team.

Look for a bodyguard with a formal education, at least a high school diploma or equivalent. You want to know that the person who has your back while holding a gun has at least the basics of an education. If they have criminal justice training, that’s a plus.

From there, it’s critical to check out their background. You want a full clearance, not just a general background check, including:

• A criminal history through national, state, and local records, as well as sex offender registries. (Keep in mind that a registered sex offender is going to be limited in where they can go to protect you.)
• A drug screening to ensure the bodyguard isn’t impaired while on the job.
• Work history and references.
• Credit history if theft or fraud is a concern.
• Driving records if the role requires any vehicle operating.
• Professional license check to ensure the person is licensed. Armed guards often need a permit and an FBI background check

Consider an overall picture of the bodyguard. What does their health look like? Are they in good enough shape to keep you safe? What kind of driving background do they have? Are there any DUIs on their record? Domestic violence or anger management concerns? Any of these factors would be a red flag that they might not have full control of their actions.

First Impressions Matter

When you meet a potential bodyguard, do you get a sense that they take care of themselves? Are they well-groomed and focused? Do they stay attentive to your conversation? What kind of first impression do you get? 

That initial feeling matters. You want a bodyguard that knows how to blend in, which means they take care of their hygiene and dress respectfully — without standing out as being overdressed. They understand social norms well enough to behave in public, but are alert and aware of their environment and can move you to safety without making a scene.

To make all of these requirements happen, personality matters. Your bodyguard must be confident without being overly arrogant, well-groomed without overdressing, and aware of their surroundings and able to make instant judgment calls. This trifecta creates personal security that lets you enjoy your private life without drawing unwanted attention.

Conclusion

When your safety is under threat, a personal bodyguard could be, quite literally, a lifesaver. Your security team provides you with protection and knowledge of how to move forward with your life smartly. 

With a bodyguard, you can continue to keep your privacy and go about your daily tasks, feeling secure that someone who knows what they’re doing is guiding your steps and monitoring the scene for danger.