family protection

The Rise of Boutique Security

LeMareschal

A New Era of Personalized Protective Solutions for Individuals, Families and C-Suite Executives

In the glossy pages of lifestyle magazines, we often read about the latest trends in fashion, travel, and luxury. However, there’s a new trend that’s quietly making waves among the elite, and it’s all about security. Not just any #security, but boutique security companies. Companies that provide security for the families of the rich and famous are not something new, however, what is new is the rise we see in Boutique Security Companies.

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As the world becomes increasingly complex and threat actors evolve, the demand for specialized, personalized security solutions is on the rise, especially among #celebrities, top corporations, and high-net-worth (HNW) and ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) individuals.

Why Boutique Security?

The term ’boutique’ often brings to mind images of #exclusive, high-end shops offering unique, tailor-made products. In the realm of security, the concept is no different. Boutique security companies are not the average security providers, they are a class apart, offering a level of service that is both exquisite and unparalleled but also specialized in tailored made #concierge type of security solutions. These companies can see the needs of their customers and create unique solutions. In 2002, when we saw the need for female executive protection agents, and we created Athena Worldwide, and in 2008 we created Nannyguards, a hybrid service combining #childcare and #security. Today through our main company LeMareschal LLC, not only can we provide a variety of specialized security solutions to our customers, but we can also create unique services based on their needs.

What makes a Boutique Security Company Special?

  • Customization: Unlike larger security firms that offer one-size-fits-all solutions, or do not have the time and personnel dedicated to each one of their clients, boutique security companies can not only be more flexible in their approach, but they do care for client’s satisfaction. They understand that every client is unique, with specific needs and desires, and they put a lot of emphasis on customer service. This allows them to craft individualized security solutions, ensuring that clients receive the utmost care and protection.
  • Exclusivity: With premium services and dedicated attention, come premium prices. This often results in a select and high #standards clientele, allowing boutique security firms to dedicate more resources and attention to each client. Something to highlight is that the smaller size of these firms doesn’t diminish their value, on the contrary, it ensures that every client is treated with the importance they deserve and that the solutions they receive are tailor-made for them.
  • Expertise: The majority of boutique security firms are owned by #seasoned security professionals who know the importance of such services and are deeply invested not only in their business’s success but their clients’ safety and #satisfaction. Their reputation is on the line, ensuring a high level of #accountability, commitment, and unparalleled service.
  • Lifestyle Integration: In the world of opulence and grandeur, where every experience is curated to exude #luxury, boutique security firms effortlessly blend into this high-end #lifestyle. Their specialized security teams are not just trained to protect you but are also skilled in the art of discretion. Whether it’s a star-studded gala, an exclusive art auction, or a private island getaway, boutique security personnel are virtually invisible, ensuring a seamless experience. They are attuned to the nuances of high society, understanding when to fade into the background and when to step in, all without disrupting the event’s ambiance or the guests’ enjoyment. Imagine having a #bodyguard who not only protects you but also knows the perfect moment to step aside so you can enjoy a private conversation or a breathtaking view. It’s this harmonious integration that makes boutique security not just a service, but an essential component of the luxury lifestyle narrative.
  • Global Perspective: As elite customers travel around the world, the nuances of boutique security shift, reflecting the unique #cultural, #political, and #social landscapes of each region. In the opulent cities of the Middle East, boutique security often intertwines with royal protocols, ensuring that protection aligns with age-old traditions and customs. Meanwhile, in the bustling metropolises of Asia, the emphasis might lean towards technological integration, harnessing the latest technological and counter-surveillance innovations. Europe, with its rich tapestry of history and aristocracy, sees boutique security firms offering services that respect and preserve the sanctity of historic events and venues. Over in the Americas, the focus often pivots to #personalization, with security details tailored to the individual lifestyles of Hollywood celebrities, tech moguls, and other high-profile personalities. This ability to shift approaches across continents not only underscores the #adaptability and #versatility of boutique security but also highlights its universal appeal and relevance in today’s interconnected world.
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LeMareschal, is a boutique security company that was created to stand out for its commitment to #excellence. Offering tailor-made #security, #travel, and #transportation solutions, LeMareschal is not just about security, it’s about offering a complete package service for #HNW, #UHNW, #celebrities, and C-Suite Executives who value #concierge type services and their peace of mind. Whether you are looking for protective teams (bodyguards), residential security, luxury and secure transportation, female executive agents, or child protection specialists, LeMareschal can provide the best for the best in your life.

In today’s world, the need for personalized security solutions has never been more critical. Boutique security firms, with their focus on customization, exclusivity, and expertise, are leading the way in providing the elite with the protection they deserve.

#BoutiqueSecurityServices #BoutiqueSecurityFirm #EliteProtection #HNWProtection

#UHNWSecurity #ConciergeSecurity #LuxuryProtection #TailoredSecurity

#ExclusiveSafety #HighEndSecurity #BoutiqueProtection #CustomizedSecurity

#EliteSafetySolutions #PremiumProtection #LeMareschalSecurity #Nannguards

#AthenaWorldwide #FemaleBodyguards #Bodyguards #CelebrityProtection #RoyalFamilyProtection #SecuritySolutions #SecureTransportation #SafeTravels #TravelSecurity #ExecutiveProtection

Reading the Room

LeMareschal

Can you read the room? One of the most critical skills for executive protection professionals is the ability to ‘’read the room’‘. This skill goes beyond traditional security protocols and involves a keen understanding of human behavior, emotions, and the ability to anticipate potential #risks before they materialize. Being able not only to read your client, but also your teammates, the general public, and any other person you come in contact with during your daily operations, is valuable beyond measure.

A room, in the context of #executiveprotection, refers to any environment or space in which a protected individual operates. It can range from your client’s vehicle, a small meeting room to a large conference hall, a corporate boardroom, or a public event venue. Reading the room involves grasping the nuances of the environment, the people present, and the emotions prevailing within the space. It requires constant vigilance and adaptability to ensure proper communication, positive cooperation with the client, and everyone else surrounding them, as well the client’s safety and well-being at all times.

“Reading the room” enables executive protection agents to detect emotions and adapt their approach, conversational tone, or in most cases just remain quiet. By closely observing body language, facial expressions, and interactions among attendees, staff, corporate members, and even family members, agents can identify not only ‘’moods’’ but also individuals who may pose a risk to the client’s #safety.

A protector’s presence alone can influence the room’s atmosphere. By maintaining a calm and composed demeanor, these professionals can create a sense of security among anyone near or involved with their client. This feeling of #safety is essential for a productive and focused environment, especially during events like high-stakes meetings or public appearances.

We all know that events and situations can change rapidly, especially in the world of executive protection. Agents must be adaptable and quick-thinking, able to adjust their strategies, personalities, and conversational tones on the fly. By reading the room, they can gauge shifts in emotions or intentions, allowing them to respond appropriately and ensure safety remains a top priority.

Reading the room also involves understanding the unspoken cues and dynamics among people in the environment. This understanding can help executive protection agents facilitate effective communication between the client, themselves, and others. By being attuned to the mood and emotions of the room, agents can identify when, or when not, to interject or offer support discreetly, creating a seamless and professional interaction.

In high-pressure situations, emotions can run high, potentially leading to conflict or crisis. Agents who can read the room have a better chance of de-escalating tense situations before they escalate into something more significant. Their ability to identify the triggers of potential conflicts and address them promptly can prevent violence and ensure a safe resolution.

The role of an executive protection agent is far more complex than just providing #physicalsecurity. It demands a holistic approach that includes the ability to “read the room” effectively. By understanding the environment, emotions, and potential threats within a space, #protectors can create a #secure and productive atmosphere for their clients. This skill is paramount in ensuring the safety and well-being of those under their care, making it an indispensable aspect of the executive protection profession.

#ExecutiveProtectionInsights #ReadTheRoom #BehavioralAwareness #SecurityBeyondProtocols #EmotionalIntelligence #AnticipateRisks #BodyLanguageMastery #DeescalationSkills #HolisticProtection #SafetyFirstAlways #EmotionDetection #ProtectionBeyondSecurity #ExecutiveProtection #Bodyguards #FemaleBodyguards #ExecutiveProtectionCompany #SecurityServices #CorporateSecurity #FamilyProtection #CelebrityBodyguards

Thinking Outside the Box-The Key to Success for Executive Protection Agents

LeMareschal

How many times have you seen companies place “Able to think outside of the box” in their job description, or executive protection agents list this term as a skill in their resume? Thousands of times! The question is, can you actually think outside of the box? Do you imagine the unimaginable? Can you see solutions where others only see problems?

According to the Cambridge Dictionary, thinking outside of the box means ‘’to think imaginatively using new ideas instead of traditional or expected ideas’’. And according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, it means ‘’to explore ideas that are creative and unusual and that are not limited or controlled by rules or tradition’’. We can find that there are plenty of definitions with similarities, and it is considered a “skill” in many professional industries, one that is particularly hard sought after by corporations for their upper management staff.

When we approach this from the #executiveprotection industry, “think outside of the box” is a metaphorical expression that means to approach a problem or situation in a creative, innovative, and unconventional way. In simple words, be able to think beyond the usual or traditional constraints, rules, limitations, or training that are commonly accepted or imposed in a particular context. The phrase “the box” represents the established boundaries or conventional thinking patterns that people often operate within and the training they have received from various schools. When someone is encouraged to “think outside of the box,” they are being prompted to break away from these usual patterns of thought and consider alternative solutions or perspectives that may not have been considered before. Ones that offer significant solutions to unique problems.

Thinking outside of the box for an executive protection agent means approaching the task of protecting the client in a manner that goes beyond conventional methods and strategies, very often outside the norm. There are so many traditional ways to approach scenarios and while the primary goal of an EP agent is always to ensure the #safety and #security of the client, thinking outside of the box allows them to be more proactive, adaptable, and creative in their approach.

Some interesting Synonyms one will find for thinking outside of the box are:

  • pull a rabbit out of a hat.
  • rise to the challenge.
  • square the circle.

Now we’re sure that as an EP agent, there have been many moments in your career when you have had to ‘’pull a rabbit out of a hat’’, “rise to the challenge’’ or ‘’square the circle’’. Clients, protective details’ needs and circumstances can change within seconds and if you are not on your toes and a quick thinker, you won’t be able to solve problems, and you won’t have longevity in this industry.

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For example, there are many colleagues who will, no matter what they face or where they are, practice the same #protective methods. They’ve learned something on a training course, and they will try to apply it in their professional life without wondering if that specific thing is even suitable to their specific situations, clientele, or specific environment. As we always love to observe people, we once saw a solo EP agent who was escorting his client in downtown Athens, Greece. The agent was staying about a meter back from his client, off to his side, but as they were approaching a building, he kept himself in the same position, now putting himself between the wall and his client! The wall poses no threat to his client so why didn’t he place himself on the other side (the most vulnerable one near the street)? Because he wasn’t taught that.

What people fail to understand is that during a class you will learn the very basic concepts and probably 10 scenarios. But real life has 10,000 different scenarios and requires you to be able to think and swiftly react within seconds. A protective detail is like a living organism, and it changes and mutates constantly, and you have to adapt your methods according to the needs and environment.

Although, as we mentioned earlier, while thinking outside of the box is a valuable skill in many fields, including business, science, arts, and everyday life, it is vital for executive protection agents, especially considering you can not micromanage someone in this kind of job. Thinking outside of the box will equip EP agents with the mindset and skills needed to excel at their Craft. By combining traditional #securitypractices with #creativethinking, they can provide a higher level of protection and maintain a competitive edge in the ever-evolving #securityindustry.

Here are some examples of where EP agents must think outside of the box:

  • Risk Assessment: Instead of solely relying on standard #security #protocols, different risk platforms, and risk matrix, an EP agent who thinks outside of the box will conduct a thorough #riskassessment specific to their client’s unique circumstances, which will allow them to identify potential vulnerabilities and tailor their security measures accordingly (we was vastly disappointed when we received an #RTVA from a very reputable security company addressed to a female client and no one had bothered to include registered sex predators in her area or sex crimes rates). Being able to be creative and think like the “bad guys” will give you a different perspective to work on with your risk assessment. If you were going to commit a crime against this person(s), how would you do it? What methods would you use to overcome current security protocols? Where are the weaknesses?
  • Adapting to Different Situations: As we already mentioned, a protective detail is like a living thing and is consistently evolving, changing organism. Unforeseen situations may arise during your assignment. New #threats, changing security needs, and what you can and cannot do. Thinking outside of the box means being able to adapt quickly and make split-second decisions based on the circumstances at hand. Nothing is ever a set of little yellow footprints laid out on the ground for you to follow. During a protective detail, you don’t have much time to think, play scenarios out, or do calculations in your head. You have to be fast and effective!
  • Discreetness: While it’s essential for an EP agent to be #vigilant and #protective, sometimes blending into the background can be equally important. An innovative agent will find ways to remain discreet while ensuring their client’s safety. Observe your environment quickly and be able to come up with a behavior, and persona that will justify your presence but not give away your purpose. The days of highly overt agents are becoming more outdated every day. Discreet, quiet, discerning agents are in high demand, and we must adapt to fill these needs.
  • Understanding Client’s Needs: Each client is different, with their own preferences and concerns. Each protective detail is different, with its #threatlevels and its own #protectiveplan. As an EP agent thinking outside of the box, you will be able to understand your client’s needs, the team’s operational needs, and tailor your approach accordingly. One thing that many clients bring up as a complaint, is that they feel “suffocated” by the presence of their EP teams. While it is understandable to have the protective triangle, box, rhombus (you name it) tighter in crowded places, you need to consider the overall circumstances and loosen up the distance between you and the #protectee when the situation and environment allows for it. Knowing how close to be and when to allow space is a very important skill to sharpen for the client’s sake and their overall experience. One wise old practitioner once told us, “Close enough they can see you and nod if they need you…Far enough away that they never have to introduce you.”
  • Preventative Measures: If you are creative when you do your #riskassessments and #threatanalysis, you will have quite a different perspective of risks and threats involved, and this will make you implement better preventative measures to anticipate potential risks.

One may ask, “Do I have to forget what I have been taught?” Absolutely not! Thinking outside of the box does not require one to forget or abandon the knowledge and training they have received. Instead, it encourages the integration of their existing expertise with creative thinking and problem-solving to enhance their effectiveness as an executive protection professional. It really becomes a question of how you can build on what you have been taught and expand on it further through creativity. The “bad guys” use creativity to develop their strategies to overcome your best-laid plans…How can you outthink them? Standard security practices and methods are the essential foundations of the field of protection. They are tried-and-tested approaches that have proven to be effective in various situations and are based on years of experience and research (and learning from mistakes!). These practices provide a structured and reliable framework for handling security challenges and a foundation for ensuring the safety of your clients. Now you must take what you’ve been taught and expand your thought processes to encompass these new ideas and possibilities. So, when you find yourself in situations that may demand a unique or unconventional approach…Can you really think outside of the box?

#ProblemSolvingSkills #UnconventionalThinking #EPIndustry #RiskAssessment #AdaptabilitySkills #DiscreetProtection #covertprotection #covertep #PreventativeMeasures

#EPProfessionals #SecurityChallenges #EPAgentSkills #bodyguards #femalebodyguards #corporatesecurity #familyprotection #executiveprotection #celebrityprotection #protectiveservices #softskills #epcareers #closeprotection #professionalbodyguards

The Necessity of a Client Questionnaire for Executive Protection Operations

LeMareschal

One of the most important and basic functions that a majority of the companies who provide executive protection services are failing miserably to obtain, is the client questionnaire. How many of you have been called by a company to provide services and you found yourself with not enough information about the client, besides a name and a location, and you had to literally fight to get more information from the project manager or the person in charge for the specific client? Don’t worry, we already know the answer and most of you have found yourselves in this situation.

The most important part in an executive protection detail is not to get the client or the contract, but to deliver great services and to excel. In a profession where excellence is directly connected not only with professionalism but also with the level of protection, it is vital for the industry to make sure basic steps are constantly applied. However, no matter how vital it is, many colleagues fail to maintain a questionnaire out of pure laziness, or because they do not know what to ask the client or are too afraid of the client to ask the important questions.

A client questionnaire is the first thing you must provide from the moment you secure that client/contract. You can either send the document to the client or the POC, or you can fill it yourself with the information you gather as you speak with the client or the POC. It is a very crucial document for executive protection professionals as it enables them to gather vital information, conduct risk assessments, customize security measures, establish client expectations, and facilitate effective collaboration. It serves as a valuable tool for developing comprehensive security plans and ensuring the safety and well-being, not only of the client but also your personnel.

Client questionnaires can help your operation in several ways:

It can help you gather essential operational information about the client and their specific needs. This includes details such as the client’s personal and professional background, their routines and schedules, travel plans, known threats or risks, and any specific concerns they may have. This information helps the protection team tailor their services and develop a comprehensive security plan that addresses the client’s unique requirements.

It will be a helpful tool for your risk assessment and threat analysis. Although some companies believe that one should perform a risk and threat assessment ONLY if they charge the client for it, so if the client isn’t paying, they won’t provide one. Crazy? Yeah! And it happens more often than one may think. But this topic is for another time to discuss. Just keep in mind, you don’t run a risk and threat assessment because the client is buying the ‘’product’’, you run one because IT IS part of your functions, and it will undoubtedly benefit your team on the ground. So, when you run a client questionnaire by collecting information about the client, their activities, and their environment, the information gathered enables you to conduct an initial risk assessment and threat analysis. It will help you identify potential risks, vulnerabilities, and areas of concern that need to be addressed to ensure the client’s safety and security. It allows your protection team to develop effective strategies and countermeasures to mitigate these risks.

As we all know, each client and each operation have its own needs that can vary significantly depending on factors such as their professional background, public visibility, lifestyle, specific circumstances, and geographic location. The information obtained through a client questionnaire enables you to customize your security measures to suit the client’s specific protective needs. This may involve determining the level of security personnel required, implementing access control measures, arranging secure transportation, establishing secure communication protocols, or any other necessary precautions. By knowing your client’s needs, you will also be able to establish clear expectations between you, your protective team, and them. By utilizing a client questionnaire, you enable your clients to have the opportunity to communicate their concerns, preferences, and any specific requirements they may have (Remember, in our industry, what the client wants matters as well). By understanding your client’s expectations upfront, you and the protective team can align your services, accordingly, ensuring a satisfactory and effective security operation.

As a project manager or company owner, you also have a duty toward the people you are hiring. Since you are the one who makes that first contact (services sales as well) with the client, you must be sure you require specific information to pass on to your team on the ground. There is nothing more unprofessional, unhelpful, and inconsiderate than to send your team unprepared and expect them to do a great job. Unfortunately, as we mentioned earlier, it happens way too often. Some people are just lazy to do what it needs to be done, others are terrified of the client and believe if they ask questions (which are necessary for a protective operation) will make the clients angry, and some do not know what to ask! Now we can’t do anything about those who are just lazy, however for those who fear the client, let us assure you that, nothing else shows more professionalism and that you know your field, than when you show interest and make the necessary questions that will enable a smooth and successful protective operation. Consider the fact that, for the majority of the time, you won’t be dealing with the client himself/herself, but with their PA, security manager, agency, etc. Those people will be able to provide this information to you because they already know most of the answers, and for those they do not know, they already have communication, trust, and the confidence of the client. So don’t be afraid to do what your job may dictate.

Now for those who do not know what to ask

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Think of the client questionnaire as a mini and first risk and threat assessment. Ask yourself, what would I need to know if I was the agent on the ground hired for this specific client to provide professional and successful protective services? Divide the questionnaire into sections such as:

  • Personal Information, including full name, DOB, nationality, religion, home address, contact information, and person in charge (if not the client).
  • Professional Information, including current occupation or business, employer/company name, job title, and business address.
  • Lifestyle and Routine, including daily routines and schedule, locations frequently visited (home, office, public places), regular activities (sports, social events, hobbies), any upcoming special events or engagements, associations (social, professional, religious, political), travel frequency and destinations, public exposure, or visibility.
  • Known Threats and Concerns, including any previous security incidents or threats, specific concerns or risks identified by the client or his immediate environment, information about any stalkers, disgruntled individuals, or potential adversaries, any information about the client or anyone in their immediate sphere of influence (SOI) to have been involved in controversial activity (public speech, professional decision, etc.)
  • Travel Information, including planned or anticipated travel destinations, travel dates, and duration, purpose of travel, mode of transportation (private jet, commercial airline, etc.), accommodation preferences (hotels, rental properties, etc.)
  • Support Personnel, including names and contact information of personal assistants, drivers, or other personnel involved in the client’s daily activities.
  • Security Measures, including any current security arrangements, if any (i.e., RST, security systems, surveillance cameras, alarm systems, etc.), details of any existing security personnel or teams involved in the client’s protection, how many people are to be protected, any family members traveling with the client (what, if any family members are NOT included in this assignment), and length of assignment (days, hours per day).
  • Communication Preferences, including preferred methods of communication (phone, email, text), emergency contact information (family members, close associates),
  • Medical Information, including any pre-existing medical conditions or allergies, details of any required medications or medical treatments, emergency medical contact information, and any dietary restrictions, or intolerances.
  • Legal Considerations, including any legal issues or ongoing litigation that could impact security measures or confidentiality.
  • Likes and dislikes regarding his/her EP detail – Additional Information, including the client’s preference about the security team, if they have ever hired any EP services before, why they are not using that firm anymore, and any other specific requirements or concerns the client or the POC wants to address.

Bear in mind that the questions in a client questionnaire may vary based on the unique needs and circumstances of the client, and it may need to be tailored with additional questions or sections. The preferable option is to have a document sent to the client, their PA, or POC for the specific detail and ask them to fill it out for you. That way you can have an extra layer of protection (even a legal one) if anything happens due to information not given to you.

#ExecutiveProtection #ClientQuestionnaire #SecurityServices #RiskAssessment #ThreatAnalysis #SecurityMeasures #ProtectiveServices #ClientSafety #SecurityPlanning #Professionalism #SecurityOperations #ClientExpectations #RiskManagement #SecurityConsulting #ClientRelations #bodyguards #femalebodyguards #womeninprotection #closeprotection #corporatesecurity #corporateprotection #celebrityprotection #protectiveintelligence #threatassessment #lemareschal #lemareschalexecutiveprotection

Protective and Intelligence Solutions for Individuals, Families, and Corporations

LeMareschal

In a world where security threats are increasingly diverse and unpredictable, the need for comprehensive and tailored security solutions has never been more critical. At LeMareschal, we understand this need and have dedicated ourselves to providing top-tier personal security, family security, corporate security, and security consulting services to our clients.

Personal Security: Protecting What Matters Most

Personal security is not just about physical safety; it’s about peace of mind. Whether you’re a public figure, an executive, or an individual in need of protection, our team of highly trained professionals is ready to ensure your safety. We specialize in risk assessment, threat mitigation, and crisis management, offering a holistic approach to personal security that is both proactive and reactive.

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Family Security: Safeguarding Your Loved Ones

At LeMareschal, we understand that nothing is more important than the safety of your family. Our family security services are designed to provide comprehensive protection for your loved ones, whether at home or on the move. We offer personalized security plans, taking into account your family’s unique lifestyle and needs, to ensure their safety and peace of mind at all times. Our trained male and female bodyguards can protect your young children or teenagers. Trust LeMareschal to keep your family safe, because your family’s security is our highest priority.

Corporate Security: Protecting Your Business Assets

In the complex and dynamic world of business, security risks can emerge from any direction. At LeMareschal, we offer robust corporate security solutions designed to safeguard your organization’s people, assets, and reputation. From risk assessment and crisis management to physical security and cybersecurity, our comprehensive approach ensures that your business is protected from all potential threats. Trust LeMareschal to fortify your corporate security, because the safety and continuity of your business is our mission.

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The LeMareschal Difference

What sets our company apart in the crowded security services market? It’s our commitment to excellence, our comprehensive approach to security, and our team of seasoned professionals. Our team brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, ensuring that our clients receive the highest level of service. At LeMareschal we understand that each client is unique, with specific needs, wants, and concerns. That’s why we offer bespoke security solutions, tailored to the individual needs of each client. Whether you require personal or family protection, corporate security, or security consulting services, you can trust LeMareschal to deliver.

In an unpredictable world, LeMareschal stands as a beacon of security and reliability. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help enhance your security.

Enhancing Household Safety: The Importance of Teaching Security Awareness to Household Personnel

LeMareschal

How many times throughout history has an entire army successfully protected their ruler from repeated assassinations, attacks from foreign armies, and attempted coups, only to have their leader be killed by a close and trusted aide?

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When a decision is made to provide security for a principal, (regardless of who makes the decision), the process eventually involves a professional security expert providing an overall assessment of risk and liability exposure and offering some thorough, upgraded plans for implementation using a combination of personnel, vehicles, technical equipment, etc. After a couple of weeks (Or sometimes longer) of planning, interviews, route studies, communications enhancements, and team coordination exercises, the new team is ready.

Every contingency is planned for, all the implementations in place, and once every family and household staff member investigated and interviewed, the principal is safe….Except for the gaping hole in the plan that somehow missed the maid’s addiction to gossip, or the butler’s gambling habits, or the house manager’s jealousy of anyone who is closer to the principal that he/she is. Additionally, the principal’s wife has never been coached on using caution when posting on social media, or the itinerary/ travel plans she discusses with her friends, and the nanny has no clue how to avoid exposure to risks in public or how to identify a suspicious person or environment.

Nobody considered the more reasonable expectation of teaching the family and staff to read the environment, recognize potential risks to the principal or household, avoid the risks, and properly communicate the conditions to the security team. Household personnel, including domestic helpers, babysitters, gardeners, and maintenance workers, play an integral role in our clients’ daily lives. And because of this close, or intimate, relationship that the family and household staff have, their innocent lack of security awareness can unknowingly expose their homes and loved ones to potential risks. By drawing attention to the numerous security threats faced by households today, we emphasize the need for comprehensive training programs.

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Highlighting common risks such as burglary, trespassing, identity theft, and medical emergencies, we can illustrate the potential consequences of negligence or ignorance. Attention-grabbing statistics, news headlines, and real-life examples can effectively emphasize the relevance of security awareness for household personnel. In 2008, we created Nannyguards because we saw the gap between the nannies of the UHNW families and their security teams, and we wanted to educate nannies in security and situational awareness. Over the years, the program has received so much attention and has been so effective that even principals and their spouses are attending the classes with members of their childcare staff.

Think it is too difficult or time-consuming to train the household personnel?

Ask yourself….Are you aware of how much of your principal’s information is available to family members, staff, friends, employees, clients, service people, and even social event attendees?

Valuable and sensitive information about the principal’s personal life, movement, business-related details, finances, health, and various other exposures are all at risk of disclosure by anyone who might benefit from doing so. Even the best security team can’t control all the exposure points, but a well-trained staff and supportive family can significantly lessen the risk of exposure. Comprehensive education is a must to recognize the signs of someone who, with the means and motivation, might take advantage of their knowledge of the principal.

Another important consideration is that, in many cases, the protective team or an individual Close Protection Operative is not part of the inner family dynamic and therefore required to live outside the principal’s home resulting in not only being out of reach but out of earshot of the domestic conversation.

Lastly, a maid, butler, cook, nanny, or driver can inadvertently sabotage an otherwise perfect security plan with the click of a mouse or the tap on an app of a cellphone. Social media enables the most innocent or mundane photograph or statement to compromise the principal’s safety or security. Photographs can show not only addresses, clothing styles, identifying tattoos, license plates, and habits but, through analysis of the image, can identify locations through geo-tag, and even times and dates of photographs. As you are becoming aware, proper vetting of the staff is only part of the security equation.

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Engaging the interest of household personnel is crucial in fostering a sense of responsibility towards security matters. By highlighting the positive impact their role can have on maintaining a safe household environment, we can motivate them to actively participate in security training initiatives. Nurturing a desire for security awareness training among household personnel involves emphasizing the valuable skills and knowledge they can acquire through such programs. By highlighting how training can enhance their competence and professionalism, we tap into their intrinsic motivation to excel in their roles. By illustrating scenarios where security awareness training could have prevented mishaps, criminal activities, or enabled quick, effective responses can help them recognize the importance of being prepared.

Establishing a structured training program that covers all the necessary security-related topics, such as access control, emergency response, surveillance systems, situational awareness, cybersecurity, etc., is crucial for household personnel. Quite often, they are blissfully unaware of the potential dangers and risks that they are surrounded by and merely need some clear instruction on the topics to become efficient.

The security of your clients’ homes and their loved ones relies not only on advanced technological systems and physical security teams (and RST) but also on the awareness and preparedness of household personnel. By investing in their security education and training, you can create a safer and more secure environment for your clients.

Looking for specialized security training for household personnel? Contact LeMareschal today!

#residentialsecurity #securityconsulting #householdemployees #securitytraining #familyprotection

Protecting the children of the rich and famous

LeMareschal

”Protecting the children of the rich and famous is not a new thought process. Since the dawn of time, rulers, warriors, and leaders of men have always assigned protectors to their children. They realized that they were their most prized possession and must be safeguarded at all costs, whether to carry on their legacy, continue a royal bloodline, and because they were the very essence of their lives. And for those who have been in our industry long enough, they have experienced, at some point in time, working with the children of their clients as well.

However, as the clientele and threats are changing, we see more and more families with extreme wealth or celebrity status needing specialized protection for their little ones. The children of the rich and famous are born into a world of privilege and opportunity, but with that privilege comes a unique set of dangers and challenges. Most of these children, due to their parent’s highly overt status and being constantly in the public eye, they are vulnerable to a wide range of threats. And we can all agree that the threats these children face today have evolved and become more complex than ever before…”

Read the rest of our new article here: 👉 LeMareschal Latest Articles

#childprotection #familyprotection #familysecurityoffices #nannyguards #corporatesecurity #celebrityprotection #safekids #HNW #UHNW

Photo by Brett Sayles on Pexels.com

Do you want to know how to keep your children safe? Start with these simple steps

LeMareschal

Parents! You REALLY need to start paying attention: Children and teenagers should be taught that their safety should be a top priority for them. As they navigate the world, and whether they are at home, school, or out with friends, it’s important to be aware of potential dangers and to take steps to stay safe.

Do you want to keep your children safe? Start with these simple steps:

1. Help your children develop safe habits online: As children and teenagers spend more time online, it’s important for them to develop safe habits on the internet. This includes being cautious when opening unknown websites, never sharing personal information, avoiding strangers online, and being aware of potential online scams. They need to always feel safe to report to you if someone or some organization is contacting them or harassing them online.

2. Teach them how to behave when they are out in public: It is important for them to be aware of their surroundings. You should always know where they are going and advise them to use well-lit public streets. If they feel uncomfortable or threatened, teach them to listen to and trust their gut instincts and remove themselves from the situation as soon and safely as possible. Don’t accept drinks or treats from strangers and never leave their drink unattended.

3. Show them how to seek help: Guide them on procedures for how to seek help when they believe someone is following them or they are in dangerous circumstances. Help them learn what a safe place is and how to locate one.

4. Let them know to be vocal when they feel uncomfortable: We teach our children how to behave and respect others; however, they must be reassured that it is ok for them to be vocal when someone makes them feel uncomfortable or threatened.

5. Warn them to be cautious with strangers: They should always be cautious when approached by strangers, especially if they’re alone and they should never accept rides from strangers or go with someone they don’t know, even if the person states that they know you as their parent and says it’s ok. Unless you, as the parent specifically arranged for this type of meeting and told them about it prior, then you didn’t, and they need to walk away immediately.

6. Talk to them about predators and their behavior: Talk to your children about sex predators and show them pictures of registered offenders in your area. Ask them to inform you if they see any of these individuals, or if they have been attempting to contact them.

7. Have them memorize their emergency contact information: It’s important for them to know emergency contact information such as their parents’ phone numbers and home addresses (including work phone numbers and addresses).

8. Practice different scenarios with them: Children of all ages should learn how to react in different scenarios so that they can protect themselves in dangerous situations.

9. Encourage them to communicate with you and other trusted adults: They should always know to communicate with their parents or other trusted adults when they’re going out or planning activities. This can help ensure that someone knows where they are and can help locate them if they need assistance. They also need to feel comfortable to disclose something unsettling or if someone is making them feel uncomfortable. Maintain open communication with your children and know how to listen to them. Trust them and keep calm. If they feel that you will react angrily or in a negative manner, they will be apprehensive about approaching you.

Tell them to report any suspicious activity to a trusted adult or authority figure. Make them understand that it is ok to ask for help if they need it. Whether it’s a trusted adult, a friend, or even a hotline, there will always be people available to listen and help if they are feeling scared or threatened.

10. Show them how to be safe at home: Teach your children to keep doors and windows locked when they are home alone. Instruct them not to answer the door for anyone they do not know and not to disclose to anyone, on the phone, that they are home alone. Teach them how to use the phone and how to call for help in case of an emergency. Have phone numbers such as police, fire department, and emergency medical services in a safe and easy-to-access place. In many countries, these emergency services have different numbers to reach them.

Parents, you have a vital role in helping your children and teenagers develop safe habits and providing guidance when needed. Want to learn more? Contact Nannyguards today!

#safety#staysafe#safekids#safechildren#familyprotection#childsafety#childprotection#kidsprotection#bodyguardsforkids#nannyguards

We are giving away 2 full Scholarships!

LeMareschal

We are giving away 2 full Scholarships! Donate to our “Bodyguards for Kids” Fundraising Event and enter to win an Executive Protection Specialist Course offered by Independent Security Advisors LLC, or a Surveillance Driving Course offered by Optimal Risk Group Ltd!


Not only will your donation be making a change and helping children in need, but it is also your ticket to our virtual educational event, and what a line of speakers we have! Plus, it is your ticket to our raffle prizes! Thank you to our donors for their generous offers on the scholarships! You are truly bringing our industry together!

“Bodyguards for Kids” the first annual fundraising event for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is now officially open and ready to accept your donations. Join us for our two-day virtual educational event as we are hosting 17+ subject matter experts from different countries.


Why participate?
1) Your donation is helping children in need and making a difference in their lives, first and foremost!
2) Your donation is your ticket to our educational event where, for only $39, you will have the chance to learn from 16+ Subject Matter Experts.
3) Your donation is also your ticket to our raffle prizes for a chance to win an Executive Protection course scholarship, books, and other great prizes!
4) This event will unite the security industry. No matter where you stand, no matter how you feel, this is for the kids…Do it!

We have also created multiple options for an individual or a company to contribute, participate in our event, and get highlighted as an Individual or Corporate Sponsor.

Minimum donation for individuals to be listed as event sponsors $250.
Minimum donation for companies to be listed as event sponsors $500.

For detailed information about our event, educational courses, speakers, and their bios please visit: www.bodyguardsforkids.com
After your donations, please contact us at info@lemareschal.com to be sent the event zoom invitation or to be listed for one of the above sponsorships options.

And don’t forget this event is for the kids! Let’s bring awareness about our industry and the human side of Executive Protection!

Nannyguards has been selected by the Leaders Network team at Meta

LeMareschal

We are very happy and quite proud to announce that Nannyguards has been selected by the Leaders Network team at Meta to showcase our success story. It has been a tough road and many long hours since the very first day Nannyguards was created and we feel extremely blessed to share our work and heartfelt passion with some amazing professionals who have since joined our team. Dr. Mary Beth Wilkas Janke (Psychology), JD Elkin (Cyber Security Awareness), Kelly Sayre (Situational Awareness) and Chris Grow.

Want to learn more about Nannyguards? Visit www.nannyguards.com