Executive protection comes in all forms depending on the audience. VIP protection is a growing and booming business given the rising number of influential individuals in need of security and additional protection.
VIP executive protection aims in ensuring complete protection of the principal individual and making sure they arrive at their destination safely. This security entails protection from both physical and technological threats.
VIP executive protection is evolving to incorporate technological advancements which encompass cyber security attacks and intelligence. However, this is still evolving as there are several considerations still taken to ensure that this industry fights the war in cyber security. Cyber security has become one of the core factors in VIP executive protection, as it is where the main bulk of insecurity attacks come from.
The shift from traditional crime has escalated due to technological advancements, and reliance on social media and online transactions. This has made criminals focus the bulk of their attacks to strictly online platforms, finding new ingenious ways of attacking from the available online forums on the web.
VIP executive protection agents have therefore derived modern practices to help curb these rising cases of insecurity, and ensure that their clients and their information are completely safe, thus mitigating attacks in time.
Functions of Executive Protection agents
VIP executive protection agents require crucial skills necessary for them to execute their duties, as they are sensitive. Some several skills and requirements are needed for agents who aspire to be in VIP executive protection.
VIP executive protection agents should have excellent communication skills. This is vital in communicating vital information that is pertinent in ensuring crucial information is communicated promptly and surely to the necessary channels. Clients are also able to increase their productivity by delegating their security protocol to external agencies.
VIP executive protection agents also help in restricting access to the VIPs and making them safe from external intrusion. VIPs are public individuals who are required to attend various functions and events and mingle with the public frequently. Therefore, restricting easy access to them is paramount in ensuring their safety, while making them seen in the intended circles. This control can be managed by vetting and scanning individuals who strive to have an audience with them, checking their beverage and food frequently, watching out for potential threats through sabotage in the security system, and ensuring members are not wielded within their proximity.
VIP executive protection agents experience various benefits such as travel insurance, access to gadgets and security devices, high-class transport to various areas, and access to classified information. The agents are also on the move finding ways to mitigate the impending danger. The job requires diligence and resilience.
VIP protection agents are also skilled in basic medical skills which will help keep their clients alive until they reach the hospital, in case of an emergency. These agents are trained to maintain the art of discretion, therefore being able to make the client feel safe and secure at all times.
VIP individuals with power and influence will always need protection against internal and external threats that put their businesses, careers, and money in jeopardy. These are individuals who have something to lose, and having the right team is essential in protecting their interests.
VIP executive protection offers 24-hour round-the-clock protection that ensures the principal is safe at all times. The protection may extend to the principal’s family members to prevent retaliation from criminals.
Emerging trends in VIP executive protection
With the need to ensure that VIPs are well taken care of, there are emerging trends that are coming up to replace traditional methods:
- The emergence of complex technologies
The adoption of more sophisticated technologies is imminent, with the move toward digitalism. However, the move to more complex software comes with increased threats towards security, as the services are more technology-based. There are emerging security technologies that range from AI-inspired gadgets which offer high-level encryption of communication equipment, home security systems that offer video analytics, and autonomous designed surveillance. Digital tracking strategies are also advancing and becoming integrated into security systems.
- New roles in executive protection
The rise of VIP protection and the rise in digital security challenges will see companies seeking out agents who are well versed with both physical and cyber security situations. Agents with knowledge of cyber security are more profitable and chosen to spearhead most protection agencies. There are newer roles in security advancements as more individuals are connected and therefore can launch unprecedented attacks on individuals.
- Competitive landscape
The VIP executive protection market is fast growing with more market players entering the market seeking to protect the rising number of CEOs, politicians, and high-ranking members of the government. Therefore, market players are seeking to embrace new and innovative tactics that will attract clients and curate packages that will make them retain their services. Customer retention is a big part of the business, as clients are interested in organizations that have a good track record and offer professional and long-lasting services.
Market players n the industry are also structuring their organizations to include only top-notch quality agents. This is possible through offering rigorous training, standardized training, and offering certifications to agents who have completed the program. This ensures every agent has a standardized level of professionalism, giving clients the best in the business. Companies are also concentrating on employee turnover, and seeking out excellent ratings through feedback from their clients. This is a major attraction point to future clients, who seek out the industry’s best for retention.
- Expansion in training and certification levels
In line with the growing industry, the level of training and certification is changed to involve additional features and skills. Agents are now required to have continued training owing to the changing security software and tactics in the market. This also helps them maintain a competitive edge and remain employable in any agency. In-person training is also important as the agents get to interact with both old and new security protocol measures. The agents are also taught adaptive measures which are important in their line of work.