The profession of private detective attracts a great deal of interest from the general public because of its intriguing and mysterious aspect. However, the reality in the field is often far removed from this idealised image. Many aspects of the profession are demanding, even dangerous, and act as a brake on the future of new entrants to the sector.
Candidates wishing to enter this regulated profession, via the compulsory training courses required, frequently underestimate the challenges they will have to face. The attrition rate in the first few years after graduation is particularly high. For example, in my class of 2009, only three out of eighteen graduates are still practising today.
Constraints relating to the physical appearance of detectives
As part of their work, private detectives are regularly required to carry out surveillance. Whatever the weather, they have to be out in the field, on the lookout, ready to adapt to any change in the situation. Some surveillance missions are demanding and tiring, particularly when temperatures are low or when it’s raining. During heatwaves, too. But the detective must adapt and not jeopardise his health or his mission, despite the external constraints.
Unbalanced natural needs
Long hours in the field are difficult to reconcile with a balanced diet. Often on the move or under surveillance, meals are usually eaten on the run. Working hours are irregular and atypical. Sometimes you follow a suspect for hours on end, without a break, which can interfere with good sleep and lead to chronic fatigue. Holding back to go to the toilet is also a frequent problem during an interminable stake-out. Unable to pause the target, the agent is obliged to continue his surveillance and can’t go to the toilet when he wants to. This is a very difficult constraint to manage on a day-to-day basis.
A complicated family life
Atypical working hours, frequent travel, going off on a tail and not knowing when you’ll be back – these are all constraints that are difficult to reconcile with family life. Private investigators don’t have a typical week, so it’s complicated to plan ahead. They are professionals who are constantly adapting, which is sometimes difficult for relatives to understand, especially when there is a family to organise.
Often dangerous shadowing
Spinners follow their target at all costs, sometimes risking their lives in the process, while doing their best to obey the highway code. This is particularly true of agents on two wheels, who zigzag through the streets without losing track of their target. Whether in a car or on a motorbike, detectives often lose points on their driving licence for carrying out a mission. However, they must be careful not to risk suspension. Without a valid driving licence, it is difficult for a detective to work. In Paris, tailing is particularly dangerous and maximum concentration is required to respond to emergencies in the best possible conditions.
Sensitive business
In addition, during surveillance or shadowing, detectives may have to investigate sensitive cases. This can lead to dangerous and tense situations. What’s more, some targets may realise that they are being followed, especially those with paranoid profiles or links to banditry, and react aggressively and virulently. Some investigations also take place in sensitive neighbourhoods, where it is difficult to go unnoticed.
Drug gangs are no longer afraid of armed police. A simple private detective, generally working alone or in pairs, does not frighten anyone. Situations of intimidation are frequent when we are at an observation point where other interests intersect. The private detective is present in an area to investigate unfair competition or adultery, but the people there will think that he is there for their traffic. Vigilance is necessary in all cases.
The background work of the investigators behind the screen
But being a detective is not just a field job. Investigators are very often required to analyse information on their computers: open source investigations, internet searches, data analysis, online surveillance, etc. This can lead to problems of eye strain, posture and stress associated with prolonged use of these technologies. This can lead to problems of eyestrain, posture and stress linked to the prolonged use of these technologies. Searches are long, meticulous and sometimes frustrating. For example, a detective may spend hours analysing documents, searching for information and following the digital life of suspects without knowing whether this will lead to a concrete solution. It can be mentally draining.
Compliance with the legal framework for private search agents
Managing sensitive files exposes the detective to legal risks. It is imperative that the collection of evidence is carried out in compliance with the law. The detective must therefore be vigilant in respecting the legal framework in force. They must act quickly and efficiently while complying with the law and, in particular, with the code of ethics for detectives.
The CNAPS also monitors compliance with the private detective framework, and for all professionals who have been audited, the stress is very high. As in the case of a tax audit, CNAPS agents always find organisational points to modify (sanctions are possible and the loss of the compulsory authorisation to work is a real fear).
Customer stress
On top of all these difficulties comes the stress of the customer. Customers want quick results and have high expectations. This pressure can become intense and difficult to manage. The detective is often alone and rarely works in a team, or in a small team, unlike the police and gendarmerie.
In addition, some clients may lie and manipulate the investigator. Other clients are unaware of what they are asking the detective to do, and the detective must frame his or her intervention clearly. For example, a detective cannot recover debts with ‘heavy hitters’ or tap someone’s phone.
The private detective has all the constraints of a company director
In addition to the stress generated by pressure from clients, private investigators also have to manage their own stress as company directors. As a self-employed professional, they have to look after their own business: finding clients, managing the administrative aspects, cash flow and making strategic decisions for their company. What’s more, like any self-employed person, they don’t have the job security that an employee might have. They have to meet their own costs, while their income is not guaranteed. If the market is competitive or if business is scarce for some time, the detective is on his own to deal with the situation.
Despite these challenges, the detective profession is also very rewarding. Solving a case, helping to uncover the truth or contributing to justice brings deep satisfaction. Investigators are true enthusiasts. In order to cope with the physical and emotional difficulties, detectives need to have developed a keen sense of organisation and be armed to deal with the omnipresent stress. That’s why we advise you to call on true evidence professionals with extensive experience in the field. The detective profession cannot be improvised and requires a wide range of skills.
