As an industry, executive protection is experiencing an upward trend in terms of demand for its services and market expansion. In turn, the need for qualified protection agents continues to rise, which leads to an increase in EP training programs. With the advent of technology, now it is possible to access various online courses from anywhere in the world. However, finding a good executive protection school is not an easy task, and here’s why.
Online EP Training Challenges and Benefits
While online learning has a place definitely in EP – a vital place in fact, it cannot be relied on as the sole means of becoming a certified executive protection agent. For starters, as most of these courses include pre-made materials, there is no chance for the instructor to detect any physical or emotional problems, making it difficult to assess a student’s readiness to perform in the industry.
Additionally, since most of these online courses offer certification without any basis for standardization, this leads to them not only still being uncertified, but also agents who may not be adequately trained to handle high-pressure situations.
Employers understandably have certain reservations about hiring protection agents who have only attended online training. Most of these programs may not offer the practical experience necessary to master some hard skills. Additionally, there is always concern about the quality of training provided by completely unknown schools and anonymous instructors.
In contrast, EP Access’ executive protection training programs offer a more comprehensive and holistic approach to training. The programs are meant to ensure that attendees have access to the most up-to-date information and practical resources, while concentrating on teaching specific skills that:
- are necessary skills for any person looking to get into EP, or,
- further hone the skills of experienced EPAs, drawing upon decades of hands-on experience from the instructors.
Why Are There So Many Bad EP Schools
The problem of finding quality training is not only limited to online courses, don’t get me wrong. The situation is probably even more comical when we look for traditional training. A quick google search will show you that most places that offer “certified EP training” are 24-48h arms-akimbo LARP experiences.
There is some talk that the rise of this type training may be attributed to military personnel returning from war zones. Regardless of where it comes from, it is certainly not applicable in most actual details, and companies may even view such training as a potential liability. While such courses may provide “fun” and “sexy” and add visual value to a resume, they may not lead to serious employment opportunities.
Aspiring EPAs should be prudent with their money and carefully evaluate the value of the courses before enrolling. They should choose courses that offer a return on investment, draw from practical experience, and are taught by reputable professionals recognized in the industry.
Deciding on an Executive Protection School
When you are trying to find a good executive protection school, there are several factors you need to consider before enrolling.
The first step is to research:
- the training institution’s history and reputation, as well as
- the backgrounds and experience of the instructors.
This may sound simply like common sense; however, poor research is the reason why bad schools still operate. Look for a place that has been in operation for a while, with a solid team of instructors that include recognized experts and leaders in the executive protection industry.
The second step is to evaluate the course content to ensure that it is:
- up-to date, and
- comprehensive.
When selecting a training program, it’s important to be informed and consider all the factors that can impact your success. After attending one course, consider attending another to expand your opportunities and capabilities. So, keep in mind these factors and make an informed decision, and you can find good EP training that can actually help you excel in the industry.
Soft Skills – A good place to start
Soft skills are often overlooked in the job market, but as that market is becoming increasingly competitive, employers rely more and more on soft skills when making hiring decisions. But don’t worry if you feel like you lack in this area.
While physical skills are still important, executive protection professionals must be socially conscious and emotionally intelligent to navigate and thrive in today’s industry. This requires a focus on the often-overlooked soft skills.
Actually, EP Access created the first-of-its-kind course that focuses on the essential soft skills needed for success in executive protection. Topics such as interpersonal communication, building and maintaining a professional image and reputation, navigating interactions with clients and executives, and even how to dress will all be covered in depth during this course.
This is an excellent place to start for anyone looking for training to get into executive protection or if you just want to experience the benefits of a well-structured online EP course.
Conclusion
Unfortunately, there are many bad EP schools. But finding a good executive protection school is essential to obtaining the skills and knowledge necessary you need to succeed in this growing industry. In order to do this, it is crucial to carefully research the institution’s history and reputation, as well as the backgrounds and experience of the instructors. As we said, you will need to evaluate each course and its’ content to ensure that it is up-to-date and comprehensive.
Online courses have their benefits: you can study from any place in the world, at any time that fits your schedule, but they should not be relied on as the sole means of becoming a “certified executive protection agent”.
Consider all the factors and make an informed decision – and you can find good EP training that will help you excel in this exciting and growing field.