What makes a great private investigator

We need to be able to ask probing questions to discreetly dig into your case to find routes to the answers that you are after. Our curiosity is linked to an interest in human nature and why people act and react the way they do. We cant help ourselves! Persistence and the will to keep going when a surveillance case appears to be dead in the water and going nowhere is a key quality of a good investigator. A member of the team will always be ready to listen and suggest a detailed plan to ensure we get you the best possible outcome.

Meanwhile, soft skills are more innate but just as important. Look for these when you look for a private investigator for your case. Most PI work is not glamorous. In fact, the work can be quite stressful and can involve working odd hours.

Passion is one of the key characteristics of a good private investigator. It shows the PI is internally driven to do well and to deliver a result no matter the case. For good PIs, passion equals dedication.

The best PIs possess creativity in spades so they can legally access the information needed to further their case. Alternatively, they might seem to be just another friendly stranger striking up a conversation in a coffee shop. Private investigators must be friendly. Private eyes are often required to present evidence in a legal environment, so it pays to be prepared for judicial proceedings. A good rule of thumb is to treat every investigation as if it could go to trial.

Another thing to keep in mind is intimidation as defined by the Criminal Code, particularly how you can become involved in intimidation while undertaking surveillance. Photography skills Photography and video evidence are some of the most common types of evidence you can find, particularly if a case makes it to trial.

As you investigate, you may need to snap some pictures to prove your findings e. Good photography skills are a great way to ensure you perform this part of the job.

The same applies if your client needs video surveillance done. Look into some essential photography basics to help take quality photos. This information could make a case, so it pays to take some practice shots first.

Tech skills Being at least a little computer-literate is a necessity in many fields; private investigators are no exception. Aside from knowing your way around digitized databanks, private eyes also need to know how to use devices like GPS trackers and video surveillance equipment. Having a good understanding of your technology is a great way to make investigating far more efficient.

Business smarts. But if you do, add your own twist. A great PI is authentic and original. An incredible work ethic. Private detectives may work surveillance cases 22 hours straight, or entire weekends and holidays on top of their advertised business hours. There is no substitute for hard work. Ego is the enemy. Controlled aggression. He or she is assertive and forward, constantly pushing the boundaries. Has your private eye done surveillance in other states or dug up dirt in other countries?

Attention to detail. Paying attention is incredibly valuable. The most minute detail could be a lead, and great investigators are willing to dig into each one. Life, not just investigations, is about getting outside your comfort zone. Two ears, one mouth.