Private investigators are helpful to lawyers, companies and also individuals in helping them uncover information. They can be hired to perform background checks on applicants before employment, do credit checks or conduct surveillance on individuals and to monitor them to see what activities they are involved in among many other kinds of investigative matters. They however do not have any police powers to gather the needed information for their clients so they can work on it. If you are thinking of becoming a private investigator, there are a few things you might need to know.
- This field is wide
There are different kinds of private investigators thanks to the different areas of specialization the job comes with. You therefore might require choosing a specialty or you can take up several areas to handle. You have the option of being a corporate investigator, computer forensic investigator or a financial investigator. You can select an area you are most interested in or several you know you are good at.
- You might need an associate degree
Even though formal education is not really mandatory to become a private investigator, you might find it very beneficial to pursue postgraduate education. Criminal justice courses or police science courses can turn out to be most useful in your line of duty. Associate degree programs you can choose include criminal investigations, criminology and juvenile delinquency among others.
- A bachelor’s degree is beneficial too
This is considering that some types of this job can be demanding requiring a degree. Aspiring corporate investigators will for instance, find it necessary to take up a program in accounting or business administration or other related programs. The degree expands your knowledge in the specific area you have selected to base your investigative work.
- It is necessary to gain skills and experience
Clients are inclined towards finding experienced and skilled PIs. You must therefore find a way of acquiring the necessary experience you need in your area. You can find a job in a private security firm or a law enforcement agency to build your experience. The fact is, most private investigators have military or police backgrounds, but anybody can become one without this prior experience. The working experience will help you develop skills of working alone or in a group, develop needed communication skills and know how to make sound decisions.
- In Some Countries You will need a license
Investigative work is delicate and can become dangerous at some point. Most countries and states require you be licensed to handle this kind of work. The compliance requirements will differ from place to place and you will need to adhere to your local requirements. You might be required to give and pass an exam on laws and regulations to gain your license. It can be illegal to do investigative work without a proper license. It is important to find out everything about private investigators before deciding to become one. You will find it easier knowing what is expected from you and what to expect as you work.
In Indonesia where IPIA and BEPIA operates there is no licensing of private investigators. However our Director of Investigations has studied and passed a Certificate in Investigative work that is accredited by the Australian Government.
Becoming a private investigator and a good one at that, you will need to play your role and do your homework. When everything is working right, you can be sure to achieve your full potential in your line of duty.
Bali Eye Private Investigation Agency (BEPIA) along with our sister agency Indonesia Private Investigation Agency (IPIA) are fully registered Private Investigation Agencies offering private detective and private investigator services to the Private and Business sectors throughout Indonesia and South East Asia.
BALI EYE PRIVATE INVESTIGATION AGENCY 