by Kat Stovall

Created on: October 21, 2008   Last Updated: March 01, 2011

Working in the loss prevention/asset protection industry is definitely not a job for everyone. Many people have a very stereotypical point of view on the subject and do not realize what it takes to do the job or the risks that are involved. Though these stereotypes often work to my advantage because I am the last person a thief would suspect they work against me as well. Besides the typical ideas held by others and the possibility of liabilities and injuries, it is important to learn how to disassociate yourself as well. Catching shoplifters is not easy and it is not something everyone can do.

The first aspect of working in loss prevention that rules out some potential employees is the physically demanding workday. When thinking of the type of person who is in charge of apprehending thieves, you probably do not picture a 5 foot 3 inch tall female who weighs 99 lbs, like me. You probably picture an old guy in a uniform or a bulky ex-cop in a suit. In reality, very few loss prevention workers fit the normal stereotypes.

 In fact, the physical requirements to work as a loss prevention detective make it almost impossible for stores to employ those who are not in top shape. In my position, it is nothing for me to run at full speed through a very large department store five to ten times a day. I have to crawl, bend, stoop, and hide myself in a variety of uncomfortable places and quick reaction times are essential. As you can imagine, if I were not in great physical form these requirements would be a bit difficult to meet. Yet, shoplifters, friends, coworkers, and others all look at me in disbelief when I tell them what it is I do for a living.

Another aspect of the job that may discourage potential applicants is the possible physical and financial risks. Each time you stop someone for stealing a million questions fill your head. Do they have a weapon? Will they decide to fight? Will they attempt to sue?  It is not uncommon for a suspect to draw a weapon or attack the person that is standing between them and freedom. You must be willing to risk your own personal safety every time you apprehend a person.

 Especially for those new to the job, there is always that little voice wandering aloud in your head on whether or not you and/or your team are 100% sure this person has stolen from your store. We call this the million-dollar question because many accused shoplifters have filed suit against stores for non-productive detainments. What this means for the

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