The most essential skill of a bodyguard is being capable of identifying potentially threatening situations and ability to thwart such threats with good reactions. You are sometimes part of a team and at times you work alone. You should be calm and collected while at pressurising situations and your ability to confidently take the person away from way of harm is also counted. Good, assertive communication skills, good understanding of social situations, etc also play important roles in your success as a bodyguard.

One important trait of bodyguards or close security officers is adaptability to different situations, with good observation powers and ability to take initiative when needed.