More and more people are attracted to the world of the private investigator. However, perceptions about this vocation are heavily influenced by the media, so if you are one of those who are drawn to this profession, it is essential that you get the facts straight.
First of all, the job of the private investigator is part of law enforcement and is subject to most of its laws and regulations. Second, the number of cases they will work on varies considerably, from the usual cheating of spouses to uncovering facts involving the financial records of multinational companies.
If you really want to become a private investigator, take note of the following:
The first thing you should do is check with the agency that regulates private investigation. Usually this is the Department of Justice, but the requirement can vary from state to state. Depending on where you are and where you want to work, you may be required to undergo a personal or background check, or even take an exam before you can get a license.
The second step is to study about legal issues. You don’t have to go back to law school, but you do need to spend some time reading books on the law, particularly those related to the area in which you will be working.
Third, find a reputable company. It is necessary to do a background check on the private investigation company you will be working for so that you do not become a victim of a night operator.
Fourth, you must learn to manage your finances. Just like with any other company, a new employee will not be paid much. Even more so here, as these private detective firms are often small with limited resources and finances.
When applying for a job, remember that the basics, like submitting a good resume, are still essential. Remember that you’re not the only one looking to land that job, so make your resume stand out by being clear, concise, and to the point.
The following will also be essential for the budding private investigator: Obviously, a car is vital to being able to get around. Don’t buy a fancy sports car though; get one that is nondescript, as the last thing a researcher wants is to be noticed.
Other vital tools that should be in your toolkit are a cell phone, camera, video camera, PC and/or laptop, and other surveillance tools. Of course, your company can provide them, but having them yourself will help you get a job more easily because the company will realize that they can save you some money and that you are serious about the job.
An important fact of being a researcher these days is that you need to be familiar with and conversant with other fields such as computers and the Internet; because in the process of gathering information, that is where you will have to go to investigate.
Today the world of the private investigator is growing and while in the past it was dominated by men, now there are an increasing number of women also entering this noble profession.