It feels like an age since our last newsletter as the demands of a busy summer season have caught up with our team here at the Circuit. So, what better topic to explore than strategies for achieving work-life balance as a protector?

To be a success in this industry requires high levels of dedication, adaptability, and professionalism. As protectors, we play a critical role in safeguarding individuals and ensuring their safety in dynamic and often challenging environments. However, the intense nature of the job makes finding a balance between work and personal life a significant challenge.

Some of you reading this will already have dismissed the possibility of achieving work balance as a fool’s errand. While it can, at times, seem an impossible endeavour, in this edition of On the Circuit, we’re going to show you that it is possible and give you some actionable strategies for building a robust framework.

THE NEED TO KNOW

Notorious Preacher Back Behind Bars - Radical cleric Anjem Choudary charged with terrorism offences yet again.

Rapper-Turned-Jihadi Found Dead - Once aspiring British rapper and alleged ISIS leader, Abdel-Majed Abdel Bary, found lifeless in Spanish cell ahead of terror charges verdict.

Fountain of Youth Pill! - Harvard Scientists Unveil Revolutionary Anti-Aging Drug Combo that could keep you working on the frontline longer!

Ukraine's Grain Choked Off in New Tactic! - Kremlin blocks Black Sea, now targets Ukraine's Danube River export routes, disrupting global grain trade.

New Europe Entry Rules for Americans - Starting 2024, U.S. passport holders traveling to Europe must apply for authorization, losing their visa-free access.

Taliban Enforces Stringent Drug Ban - Despite initial scepticism, Afghanistan's poppy cultivation has plummeted drastically.

MAIN FEATURE

Strategies for Finding a Work-Life Balance

Understanding the Challenges

As a Close Protection professional, you will often face demanding schedules, irregular working hours, and the need to be constantly vigilant. These factors can make it challenging to maintain personal relationships, pursue hobbies, and take care of one's well-being. However, with a mindful approach and effective strategies, it can be possible to find harmony amidst client demands placed upon you within the close protection sector.

Effective Time Management

1. Prioritise tasks: Focus on the crucial responsibilities, delegating or eliminating non-essential ones. Each client/task presents unique challenges, but with determination to improve, success is within reach.

2. Create a schedule: Establish a structured plan that balances professional and personal commitments. Allocate time for family, relaxation, and self-care. Even in a team environment with limited control over the schedule, make the most of your time by scheduling quality moments with loved ones and pursuing fulfilling hobbies.

3. Use technology wisely: Streamline tasks and stay organised with time management apps and digital calendars. Embrace technology to boost productivity and reclaim valuable time for yourself.

Setting Boundaries

1. Establish clear boundaries: Communicate your availability and limitations to your clients, colleagues, and loved ones. Define specific periods for uninterrupted personal time and adhere to them.

2. Delegate when possible: Utilise support staff or team members to distribute workload and responsibilities, ensuring you have time for personal matters. Carrying out the role of a bodyguard many can assume that we are “Super Human” whilst we may think that’s sometimes the case, we all have our limitations.

3. Learn to say no: Recognise your limits and avoid taking on additional responsibilities that can lead to burnout. Saying no when necessary allows you to focus on what truly matters.

Prioritising Self-Care

1. Practice self-awareness: Pay attention to your physical and mental well-being. Recognise signs of stress or burnout and take proactive steps to address them.

2. Allocate time for relaxation: Engage in activities that help you unwind and recharge. This can include exercise, hobbies, meditation, or spending quality time with loved ones.

3. Seek support: Build a support network of friends, family, or fellow professionals who understand the unique challenges of the close protection industry. Engage in open conversations and seek guidance from others when needed.

Conclusion

Maintaining work-life balance is paramount for success and well-being in the close protection sector. Effective time management, clear boundaries, and self-care are essential strategies for achieving harmony in this demanding profession. Remember, it's an ongoing process that requires effort and reflection. Investing in yourself and nurturing personal relationships will lead to thriving both professionally and personally.

Additionally, employing a coach can be a game-changer, offering vital support to combat burnout and navigate the unique challenges of close protection. A coach provides objective insights, aids in personal growth, and helps develop strategies for managing stress and optimizing performance. With a strong support system and expert guidance, close protection professionals can find fulfilment and success in their careers and lives.

Shaun West

Business | Mindset Coach

[email protected]

INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT

Minerva Elite Performance

We are thrilled to welcome our newest corporate partner, Minerva Elite Performance. With a team steeped in a variety of professional backgrounds including the military, police, academia, and corporate business, Minerva provides an unrivalled learning and development experience for security professionals.

We look forward to the shared insights and wisdom they will bring to our community and the unique opportunities this partnership will provide to our network. Welcome, Minerva Elite Performance!

FROM THE PAGES OF THE CIRCUIT MAGAZINE

Improve Your Prospects With a Confident Face-to-Face

Mastering face-to-face meetings can significantly boost your prospects, particularly in the security industry. While many fear these meetings, they can be pivotal in landing high-profile clients. Preparation is key; going unprepared could mean the loss of an opportunity. Face-to-face meetings provide advantages over virtual meetings, like revealing body language, ensuring full engagement, encouraging participation, and promoting clarity in discussions.

In meetings, you should guide the conversation, show genuine interest, and confidently present your qualifications and experience. Directly asking questions and providing honest feedback also help in creating a good impression.

Appearance matters, so dressing professionally is crucial. Prepping your clothing the night before a meeting can save time. Summarize the client's needs at the end of the meeting and promptly provide a quote for the services they need. Be upfront about your rates, competing on quality rather than price. With these tips, your face-to-face meetings should become a formidable tool for success.

Whether it's securing a high-profile client or acing an interview, the article provides insightful strategies on how to guide conversations, ask relevant questions, and present yourself professionally.

Read the full article to gain a deeper understanding of these critical skills and learn how to employ them effectively in your professional journey.

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GEOPOLITICAL ANALYSIS - RANE

The Wagner Group's 'New Path' in Africa

The Wagner Group, led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, plans to shift its focus to Africa, potentially sending small numbers of mercenaries to support military rule by enhancing personal security for authoritarian leaders. Despite the recent upheaval in Ukraine, Wagner's operations in Africa have continued, with deployments in countries like CAR, Mali, Libya, Sudan, and possibly Burkina Faso.

While the Russia-Africa Summit may shed light on African interest in security partnerships, it is unlikely that all of Wagner's estimated 10,000 members will go to Africa. However, even a small increase in Wagner forces could prolong conflicts, sustain military rule in certain countries, and impact the Libyan situation, with the potential for further escalation.

New frontiers for Wagner expansion may also include countries with leaders seeking security assistance, such as Guinea and Cameroon. The group's move to Africa could have varied repercussions on ongoing conflicts and authoritarian governance in the region.

Read the full article >

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE PODCAST

Searching for the Standard with James Cameron & Gerard Boniello

Why does the pinnacle in EP Standards still elude us? Why are standards a contentious issue? Hot on the heels of the recent BEPP Executive Protection Operations Conference in Kansas City we are very pleased to bring you key takeaways from James Cameron and Gerard Boniello, Chair and Vice Chair of the Board of Executive Protection Professionals.

This week we are combining the thematic topic of standardization and the work of the BEPP with feedback and a behind-the-scenes look at the recent conference to ask:

• How could the ANSII standard improve the industry?

• What has happened between now and our previous interview with James Cameron?

• What advice do you have for improving EP training experiences?

• Key topics that stood out at the EPOC conference this year?

• Next steps for the BEPP and how you can get involved

UPCOMING EVENTS

International Security Expo: 26 - 27 Sept 2023 - London, UK

Seek out next-generation security solutions from hundreds of leading suppliers on the exhibition floor. Whilst high-level speakers will discuss the most pressing security issues, offer essential takeaways and provide policy updates, including a unique line-up of speakers that you won't find anywhere else.

This is your opportunity to contribute to the global security conversation, gain invaluable insights, learn new strategies and forge crucial connections with like-minded professionals.

Register to Attend >

ELSEWHERE, ON THE CIRCUIT...

RESOURCE: The Necessity of a Client Questionnaire for Executive Protection Operations

Takeaways from the Circuit:

This great article by our friends at LeMareschal uncovers an overlooked element in executive protection services—the client questionnaire. It emphasizes its crucial role in effective security planning and risk management, detailing key areas to cover such as personal, professional, travel and security information, among others.

Client questionnaires are an essential tool for helping us to define security measures and establish clear expectations with clients. The article also underscores the importance of the risk assessment, which is often neglected but crucial for preparedness and safety.

Learn how to enhance your executive protection operations through the effective use of a detailed client questionnaire >

UNTIL NEXT WEEK...

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