Learn about industry specifics for private investigation companies

By learning about industry specifics, a would-be private investigator can know approximately how long it will take to become established in the field of corporate investigation, what is expected, and how to specialize a career in this eclectic field.

I recommend: The Bureau of Labor and Statistics offers information such as the nature of the work of a private detective and options available to such individuals. These options may include specialization as a corporate investigator, the job outlook, potential earnings, and related occupations. It also offers significant factors into the line of a private detective or investigator, including the fact that the work hours are often irregular and approximately 30 percent of these workers are self-employed. CareerOverview.com discusses the private detective industry at large, including areas of specialization such as private investigative firms which specialize in corporate investigations, historical earnings and tips about what individuals would come to expect from working in such a field.

Pursue a college degree or training program before joining private investigation firm

Working in corporate investigations does not always require a college degree, but such an education can help when looking to get hired at private investigation firms. For individuals who are more interested in working at background investigation companies, it may be more cost effective to invest in a training program rather than a college degree. There are no strict educational requirements for corporate investigators; however, many can benefit from a college degree. When applicants do not have an applicable college degree, private business investigation firms and private investigation companies will look for relevant work experience, such as a training program completed by the individual. Whether a person has an established career as a corporate investigator or they are looking to supplement their new knowledge, training and certification programs can offer additional knowledge and credibility.

I recommend: Utica College offers an online Economic Crime degree which supplements the professional education of individuals hoping to be hired by private investigative companies to help stop white collar crime. It is the only program of its kind in the country. Sometimes corporate investigative companies will provide training for their employees and Gumshoes.com discusses some of their mandatory training programs and benefits of such. DTI Data offers a certification in data forensics, which is beneficial for corporate investigations since so much work is done on the computer. In fact, the site estimates that 85 percent of the crimes which are committed today contain a digital signature which can help identify the perpetrator.

Educate yourself with respect to licensing for corporate private investigation services

Private investigation licenses are not required in all states; however, they are beneficial to have. Many states will exempt corporate investigators from having licenses if they are performing internal investigations, but having a license is often beneficial for other services, including background investigation companies.

I recommend: EInvestigator.com offers a state-by-state listing of relevant contact information for private investigative licenses. For states which do not require a license specifically for performing private investigation work, they may require a business license. CrimeTime.com discusses each individual state and their requirements for working as a private investigator.