Are you looking to begin a new career path or just planning to change careers altogether? Do you have an innate desire for finding and researching things? You may as well be on your way to becoming a private investigator. The services of private investigators are becoming more needed each and every passing day. From legal, councils to private individuals, private investigator services are becoming a norm. To become a private investigator, one has to be knowledgeable on what the job entails.

Work Activities

The job of a private investigator is all about inquiry and gathering of information. You could be assigned to a private individual case like that of a divorce or company related issues like suspicion of theft. It is the job of the private investigator to conduct background research on the parties involved by asking questions – relevant questions – and analysing gathered information.

Working Environment And Hours

As a private investigator, you will need to have an office where all research work and analysing of gathered data can be done. It also allows you look for professional in your conduct of services to clients. As a private investigator, there are times when you will be out on the field conducting investigations and may even spend hours/weeks/months on a case. Depending on the nature of the job, your working environment tends to change and you should be well equipped to adapt favourably.

As a private investigator that has surveillance and other field related work, you would have irregular working hours. While you may have hours to meet with clients, your working hours could extend into the nights and weekends occasionally.

Necessary Skills, Qualities, And Interests

To be a good private investigator, one is expected to have most, if not all, of the mentioned qualities, skills, and interest:

  • A good communication skills backed with an excellent written and spoken English fluency
  • Strong analytical skills
  • Can work independently and effectively
  • Patience and a full bag of perseverance
  • Integrity and honesty
  • Great observatory skills
  • Confidence in oneself to stand as a witness in court
  • Basic computer skills
  • Understand what the job truly entails
  • Be empathetic towards clients

Basic Requirements

You must have successfully completed training as a private investigator. In areas of speciality, you will be required to have a degree in the area. To do this, one would have to gain these qualifications at the university.

There are some universities that offer computer courses online. You can register at the university’s website and complete any online course. These universities are good choices if you generally have a busy schedule and cannot attend a conventional university.

All trained private investigator must be licensed by the Security Industry Authority (SIA) before they can practice. You can visit their websites to know more about how to get licensed.

It is expected that one has some level of experience in investigative or law enforcement roles. One could be a retired police officer, soldier or a bodyguard. This gives you background knowledge on what the job of a private investigator entails. You will also be required to have an active drivers license.