Are Private Investigators a Good Career?
Are Private Investigators a Good Career?
Movies and TV shows may make a career as a private investigator seem glamorous, but the reality is far less glamorous. This job requires a lot of research, patience and resourcefulness to uncover evidence that could be used against clients or others.
If you enjoy detective work, a career as a private investigator can be a great way to make a living and provide valuable services to people. Your responsibilities can range from conducting court record searches to accident reconstruction or surveillance. You can also find employment with police departments and security companies as a private detective or investigator.
The Demand for Private Investigators is High
With a growing need for investigation and security services, there’s a strong demand for private detectives and investigators in the United States. Some of the highest demand for investigators is in the legal services industry, as more and more people are involved in lawsuits and other disputes.
Some private investigators also work in the insurance industry, and they might be called on to investigate claims of theft or other damage. They may also do background checks for insurance companies or for individuals who want to verify a friend’s employment.
State Licensing and Education Requirements
To become a private investigator, you’ll need to pass a state-level examination, which is generally administered by the National Association of Professional Women (NAPW). You can learn more about how to become licensed in your state at NAPW’s website.
A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, psychology, sociology or a related field is typically required for this profession. However, many private investigators have previous law enforcement or military police experience and can use that to count toward their educational requirement.
You can also earn a master’s degree in criminal justice or a related field. This is a highly competitive field, so having a master’s degree will increase your chances of getting hired by private investigator firms.
Ethics and Compliance Requirements
As a private investigator, you need to understand how the law affects your job and the work you do for clients. You must be careful about how you conduct your investigations, and you must always consider whether the actions you take are ethical or illegal.
Your ethical responsibilities are to your client, your coworkers, the public and the law. You’ll also need to follow federal, state and local laws when you perform your duties as a private investigator.
You’ll need to understand the nuances of each state’s laws and regulations in order to protect yourself from legal pitfalls. Fortunately, there are a number of online courses and resources you can use to help you stay abreast of the law.
A good investigator must be able to maintain an accurate, detailed and thorough record of the information they gather and keep it safe from unauthorized use. They should also be able to communicate clearly with people and remain compliant with their employer’s policies and practices.
A good private investigator is a hard worker with excellent communication skills and a knack for research and analysis. They should be willing to work long hours and be able to handle the stress of their job. They should also be willing to take on assignments that are both difficult and potentially dangerous, as they might need to conduct surveillance or contact people outside of normal business hours.
