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What makes a good Private Investigator?

8 August 2021

What makes a good Private Investigator?

There are many attributes which are needed to be successful as a Private Investigator. Today we will discuss what separates the those top in their field. We will focus on more overlooked aspects which do not immediately come to mind when we think of Private Investigators whom are the subject of many assumptions. A magnifying glass and an eye details will not do the trick anymore as increasingly clients demand more from professionals whom are having to work harder and smarter to ensure they stay ahead of the pack.





 Technical knowledge and familiarity 

Good technical knowledge of a variety of equipment. Good camera skills are a great start but familiarisation with your model and other equipment are paramount. You need it to work and operate fast. Being familiar with and having a good understanding of your equipment is critical. Whether it's a camera, tracker, car, camcorder, that lens you don't use often or your IT equipment it all needs to ebb and flow with you like a symphony coming together. Every great detective knows their equipment inside and out. Don't forget maintenance and updates too.




Perseverance and grit


Tenacity and grit. You cannot give up or quit, you must continue no matter how hard you've looked, you look again. Most cases after solving are obvious, it's those who persevere that reap the biggest rewards for themselves and their clients. Always turn up 30 minutes early and stay 30 minutes late. A good investigator is mentally tough and robust enough to put in the time and effort required to get their clients the results they deserve.





If challenged trying something novel


When strange things happen think outside the box. This refers to online and physical work. This is why many PI's carry comprehensive bags of items which do not have an immediate purpose. The item does not make sense now but in the correct situation could be absolute dynamite. When things get weird or challenging think about how you can change the situation into a winner.




It usually is what it looks like, not missing the obvious things


Follow the herd. When in doubt follow the herd, everyone is doing it right? Our instincts tell use we are different, we are investigators, we are 'under cover', however going with the flow and joining in is the best way to avoid suspicion. It's also the most likely thing your subject is going to be doing. If they head to the beach they are probably playing in the sand, sunbathing or swimming. Sometimes life is boring and things that are obvious will happen, not every situation has a hidden agenda. To summarise to ignore what's in front of you because it's too obvious. Good investigators are not always looking for unicorns.

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