In the News: Female Private Investigators

[Donna Coleman]

Hi, I was watching the local news this evening while filling out my IPIU application and behold there was a story about 3 local women that were training to be private investigators.

One female had just graduated from the local college here and her instructor is a PI for about 12 years.

The other two women are still in school and graduating soon.

After the story the news anchor went on to say that a growing number of women are getting into this field and that 1 in 10 people who try to get into PI have something negative in their background checks.

Another thing she mentioned was that top PI' s earn between 35k-50k year (more for the experienced) and that most survelliance by PI's are 12 hours.

I found that interesting because I had just started filling out my application when the story came on the news. :)

[Julia Ann Stewart]

65% of all private investigators are now female, whereas in 1985 there were only 10% female.

Although the report said 10% had something in their background, it did not say they could still become good private investigators.

In our Licensing Forum, most states allow private investigators to operate in many areas of investigations without a license.

(If your news station has a web site, there is a good chance that the story is posted there. I'd like to read it)

[Donna Coleman]

Julia, I will try to find the information. Where should I post it?

[Christine Benicaso]

GIRL POWER!!

Donna:

Thanks so much for sharing that bit of info, I found it both enlightening and interesting!

:)

[Julia Ann Stewart]

Originally posted by Donna Coleman
Julia, I will try to find the information. Where should I post it? If it is a news topic, paste the web link here in a Reply.

[Donna Coleman]

Thanks Julia I will look for the story if its on the news site and post it here

[Donna Coleman]

You are welcome Christine

[Jerry Woytas]

Julia, Donna:

I would also like to read this. Thanks for the info Donna.

JeryLyn

[Debbie Richardson]

Originally posted by Donna Coleman
Hi, I was watching the local news this evening while filling out my IPIU application and behold there was a story about 3 local women that were training to be private investigators.

One female had just graduated from the local college here and her instructor is a PI for about 12 years.

The other two women are still in school and graduating soon.

After the story the news anchor went on to say that a growing number of women are getting into this field and that 1 in 10 people who try to get into PI have something negative in their background checks.

Another thing she mentioned was that top PI' s earn between 35k-50k year (more for the experienced) and that most survelliance by PI's are 12 hours.

I found that interesting because I had just started filling out my application when the story came on the news. :)


Hello Donna,

Hello Donna,

Thanks for sharing this interesting piece of news. I'm especially interested in this subject due to the fact that I have a traffic citation, a small issue (a misdemeanor if that) that has been hanging over my head for a while now. I sent my background application out last week and I fringe every time I think about what the outcome could be. I really don't see too much of a problem regarding my situation but you never know who is on the other side making the decision.

Who knows, my file can wind up in the hands of a certain individual that is having "a bad hair day" and decide to reject my paperwork. Gosh, I hope not! You mentioned that a PI's salary range is approximately $30 – $50K a year. Please don't quote me on this and I'm not sure what state you live in, but for those of us living in California, these figures sound a bit LOW. I live in the Bay Area and the cost of living here is ridiculous. I'm sure they were quoting annual figures for your particular state. I will check the annual figures for California and compare them to other states just for the heck of it. Thanks IPIU for making my career move not only educational but also enlightening.

[Debbie Richardson]

Originally posted by Donna Coleman
You are welcome Christine


Donna,

I saw your comments posted below your name and I thought to myself, WOW! May I ask, how did you get so many comments posted in one month? That is really terrific to see such dedication within the forum. I guess the week I did not get on my computer made a big difference in the amount I could have posted. You must LIVE on your computer 24/7 with a large number as yours. Great work and loyal dedication is what makes an outstanding employee.

IPIU is lucky to have dedicated employees as you. You go girl!!!!

[Mary A Young -]

I can tell you how I get so many posts. IPIU has become a regular part of my day. Currently, I'm working on it happening at the same time every day. I don't have as many as Donna, however. A lot of that is because the flu bug has been through this house twice in the month I've been here! So I have had several days of not being here.

When I log onto the main Forums page, I always do a "VIEW ACTIVE TOPICS" search and that tells me where to start each day. I don't always get through all of them. But I go as far as I can. I do a lot of welcoming of newbies because I really do like that sort of thing.

And I try and keep my posts personal, but when I get to the other levels, I very well may have to resort to something a bit more canned. I'm going to fight doing that until I have to. As we gain forum accesses that are higher, it will get to be too much.

Hope that helps ya!

Mary

[Debbie Richardson]

Originally posted by Mary A Young
I can tell you how I get so many posts. IPIU has become a regular part of my day. Currently, I'm working on it happening at the same time every day. I don't have as many as Donna, however. A lot of that is because the flu bug has been through this house twice in the month I've been here! So I have had several days of not being here.

When I log onto the main Forums page, I always do a "VIEW ACTIVE TOPICS" search and that tells me where to start each day. I don't always get through all of them. But I go as far as I can. I do a lot of welcoming of newbies because I really do like that sort of thing.

And I try and keep my posts personal, but when I get to the other levels, I very well may have to resort to something a bit more canned. I'm going to fight doing that until I have to. As we gain forum accesses that are higher, it will get to be too much.

Hope that helps ya!





Mary :confused:



Hello Mary,

Hey thanks for the tip on the "View Active Topics". I had no clue to go there...thanks to you I do now. I have just been pretty much replying to my email messages and then go from there. It depends on whether or not I have time, but I also jump around using the pull down menu of forums. I'm still trying to figure out my way around and I'm still overwhelmed. I just hope I am doing the processes right and doing something I'm not suppose to.

I guess if I messed up somewhere I would have been notified by the proper authority. So far, so good! Whoosh…Thanks for replying to my message and I also appreciate you sharing your info with all of us. Have a great day and keep up the good work!

[Melanie Bradley]

Hi everyone,

Donna thanks for the information it was both interesting and informative.

Debbie, I think you doing just fine getting around. Some of us just have more time than others and somedays even with the time some of us will come in and read and just not be up to commenting at that moment, I know I have my days like that.
As for what PIs make in California, I forgot were to go to look up salaries,lol...I was gonna do that for ya since I have the time right now..

Mary, how are ya...The way you go about looking forums up is a very good idea..."VIEW ACTIVE TOPICS" would have all the updated topics....Theres time I have gone into rooms and noone has been in them for awhile...

Yall have a good day!!:cool:

[Heather Welborn]

Debbie, I'm pretty sure you can go to salaries.com and look up how much you should be making approx. for your job in your exact area. It'll have an average, with graphs. Quite handy. This is my first time accessing the forums and I'm very happy to find active women in the field. This may be a more enjoyable job than I thought. I'm excited for my training and assignment.
Heather

[Debbie Richardson]

Hi Heather,

Thanks for the tip! I'm sure you will be an excellent PI. We do need to encourage more women to apply themselves in all areas of the working field. Hey, who knows, they say it's a "Man's World" that we live in, maybe someday us women will change that! :confused: :confused: Not a bad idea, is it men? :p Welcome aboard Heather! It's nice to have you on our ship.

[Daphane Davis]

Hi Everyone and Congrats to those just joining the forums.
I have just recently starting reading and posting and reading and posting. As others have said it Takes time and patience . I am happy to see that a decent percentage of women are joining the field. Its always encouraging to know that men and women can work side by side.

Daphane

[Donna Coleman]

Debbie, thank for responding to my posting. I am not working and have not been since Sept 03 so I have much time to sit and read and respond. I am so excited and ready to get started with investigating. Good luck to you.:) BTW sorry it took so long to respond but I have been really busy.

[Donna Coleman]

Julia, I emailed the television station that broadcasted the story on female private investigators and they don't have a archive where I can go back and get the story for posting I am so sorry. As I mentioned to another member sorry it took so long to respond but I have been very busin in and outside of the house. Have a great weekend.:)

[Melanie Bradley]

hi everyone,

its gr8 to see so many women here...i received my photo cred. last week and i am going to finish up my test sunday, hopefully and get that sent back in...i started a new job so that has stalled some of the things i was working on this week...well off to work, yall take care...

[Debbie Richardson]

Hi Melanie,

So you are in the middle of taking your test huh? Is it a hard test, or is it the basic open book test where you have to read and then answer questions? Congratulations on both, your new job and getting a step closer to level 4. Keep up the good work Melanie and have a nice day!:)

[Debbie Richardson]

Hello Mary,

Thanks again for the info. Let me see if I'm getting this right. I can go into "Search" type "View Active Topics" and it will go to the most recent topic? I was wondering if I had to get into something else first since I could not find "View Active Topic" by itself anywhere. Take care!

[Melanie Bradley]

hi debbie,

thank you...tomarrow i will let u know on if the test is hard, but by overlooking it, it doesnt seem to be hard...as for the "view topic" go up to the top off this page and hit the home button, then under ur name u will see "view active topics". hope that helps...have a good night....

[Barbara Hardin]

Good News,


There is so much excitement on this forum, to look at the different times we are in now. Sharing the vast information, that once was hard to find. Thanks alot for the informatin it was both interesting and also informative. Yes, I have to agree, I to am excited for my training and assignment.

[Barbara Compton]

I would think one of the reasons why women PI's is on the rise is for one decoys for cheating partners/spouces. But what I think is it comes down to is it's steryotyped just like police officer "it's a man's world"(that I know of in my area we have not one female state trouper). To be honest when I would think PI I would think man. :( till I have gotten into it myself. :) Please don't take this the wrong way, YES us women are more than capable of handleing cases! It's just a thought.

Barbara Compton

"Women Unite" hehehehe

[Barbara Cardis]

thank you for sharing that information. i am real excited to get started with this training!! barb

[Barbara Compton]

Welcome Barb :) (nice name ;) )

I'll be honest the best thing to do is start reading the forums. Awsome information. Just can't seem to get enough of it. I was wondering what area of work do you do?
Looking forward to hearing from you again. Keep the excitement!

Best Wishes
Barbara Compton

[Darcie L Chaffin]

Wow!!! I didn't realize that females have come so far in the world of private investigating. Way to go!!!!! I am still very excited about becoming a PI and joining this growing profession. After reading this thread, I am even more excited to get started. I didn't think that was possible.

Take care everyone

Darcie:p ;)

[Michael Harris]

To All:

It is so nice to see women helping women without any male bashing.

I know that I am in the right place. :) :D :cool:

[Barbara Cardis]

thank you for the welcome...and yes it is a great name! i will take advice about the forums. right now i am working for 2 insurance agencies, however i have worked in the telecommunications field for the last 24 years until last year...downsizing. so i am really excited to get started in something interesting.

[Barbara Compton]

Barb,
Have you posted your Introduction yet? If not please do so we can get to know you. :)

Barbara Compton

[Barbara Cardis]

hi barb, please tell me what sorts of info. do i need to post on my introduction? thank you for your help. barb cardis p.s. and where do i go?

[Barbara Compton]

Barb,

What I have done was read some of the people who were new and had gotten an idea as to what I felt comfortable putting in. Well, like backround in work(or what your doing now), what your hobbies are, stuff like that. Below is a helpful link. (I hope it works for ya, first time posting a link)

Newcomer's Topic and follow the instructions:

http://www.ipiu.org/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=5008

Glad to see you here! ;)
Barbara Compton

[Barbara Compton]

Barb,
Sorry I don't think it worked. UUUGGG!!!
At the top of the page on your upper right corner click on search, type in (it will be on your left) Newcomer's Topic. It should take you there. :)

Sorry about that. Still learning myself.

Hope it helps
Barbara Compton

[Andrea Page--]

Thanks for sharing the story about Women PI's in the news. It's great to hear it's a growing career! I'm looking forward to getting my feet wet very soon!!

Andrea Page

[Barbara Cardis]

Originally posted by Barbara Compton
Barb,

What I have done was read some of the people who were new and had gotten an idea as to what I felt comfortable putting in. Well, like backround in work(or what your doing now), what your hobbies are, stuff like that. Below is a helpful link. (I hope it works for ya, first time posting a link)

Newcomer's Topic and follow the instructions:thanks barb, you have been very helpful too! i think i am starting to get my way around.barb

http://www.ipiu.org/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=5008

Glad to see you here! ;)
Barbara Compton

[Richard Greiner -]

Donna,

Thank you for the information, that is great that women are starting to get into Private Investigations.

[Tammy A Nelson]

I jus wanted to say HELLO to all of my fellow /sister P.I.'S :) .This is such an exciting time for all of us,and I am so looking foreward to working with all of my fellow p.i.'s. We all have such a bright,and exciting future ahead of us. I just received my manual and test yesturday:D .I am so ready to start training,and getting assingments. We all have so much to learn,and I am so glad to a part of this union,and these forums.I know we will all learn,and grow together.Thank you for the very possitive article on women p.i.'s ,and for all the great information,and support.
Have a great day!!! :)

[Bridgett Brown]

Deborah,

Thanks for the posting regarding more women getting into the PI field. This is very encouraging and exciting.

[Donna Coleman]

Tammy I wish you the best with your test. My test and manual should be coming later after I mail in my coe which I need to do today. Let me know how it goes and have a great week.

[Barbara Cardis]

Originally posted by Tammy A Nelson
I jus wanted to say HELLO to all of my fellow /sister P.I.'S :) .This is such an exciting time for all of us,and I am so looking foreward to working with all of my fellow p.i.'s. We all have such a bright,and exciting future ahead of us. I just received my manual and test yesturday:D .I am so ready to start training,and getting assingments. We all have so much to learn,and I am so glad to a part of this union,and these forums.I know we will all learn,and grow together.Thank you for the very possitive article on women p.i.'s ,and for all the great information,and support.
Have a great day!!! :) hi tammy, i am so excited for you too! i can't wait to get my manual as well. there is alot to learn, but there is also alot of support here from everyone and i think that is what makes this so special. have a great day! you go girl!barb cardis

[Debbie Richardson]

Originally posted by Debbie Richardson
:confused:



Hello Mary,

Hey thanks for the tip on the "View Active Topics". I had no clue to go there...thanks to you I do now. I have just been pretty much replying to my email messages and then go from there. It depends on whether or not I have time, but I also jump around using the pull down menu of forums. I'm still trying to figure out my way around and I'm still overwhelmed. I just hope I am doing the processes right and doing something I'm not suppose to.

I guess if I messed up somewhere I would have been notified by the proper authority. So far, so good! Whoosh…Thanks for replying to my message and I also appreciate you sharing your info with all of us. Have a great day and keep up the good work!

[Tiffiny Dixon]

Tiffiny Dixon You know it's good to see that more women are getting into this field.I feel that we somewhat have an advantage over our other half.And yes, you rite I don't think there's anyone out there that doesn't have some type of bad thing in there background. :rolleyes:
Hi, I was watching the local news this evening while filling out my IPIU application and behold there was a story about 3 local women that were training to be private investigators.

One female had just graduated from the local college here and her instructor is a PI for about 12 years.

The other two women are still in school and graduating soon.

After the story the news anchor went on to say that a growing number of women are getting into this field and that 1 in 10 people who try to get into PI have something negative in their background checks.

Another thing she mentioned was that top PI' s earn between 35k-50k year (more for the experienced) and that most survelliance by PI's are 12 hours.

I found that interesting because I had just started filling out my application when the story came on the news. :)

[James L Parmenter -]

Thanks for the story, its interesting reading about PI's no matter if they're females or males. Its good to have the comoradary between the genders, after all, we are in this profession together, some of us have to work together without bashing the other's, good points and great topics here, i love reading these....................

[Bridgett Brown]

Thanks for the story, its interesting reading about PI's no matter if they're females or males. Its good to have the comoradary between the genders, after all, we are in this profession together, some of us have to work together without bashing the other's, good points and great topics here, i love reading these....................
James, I agree with you. Personally, I enjoy working with my male counterparts. I think we work well together. We can learn from each other. :)

[Patrice-Maria Love]

Thanks Donna for the information on the news piece on the rise of female Private Investigators. I am so excited and know this job will prove to be rewarding in reinforcing the social contract in public trust. Also, I thought men would be the highest percentage.

[Petra Post]

That is wonderful news. And we should be in this profession more, with the noses (for snooping) that we have... lol You go girls...

By the way, did you all know that we should not use writing like in chat rooms? Just wondering. Many agencies, lawyers and such are looking into these forums, and one of the most important things in this line of work is the report writing... So, just to tell you a secret... we are already in training and you might want to edit some of your posts. Dot your i's and cross your t's...

Go see Ann's Training Topics, that's a great thread where you can learn more of the software and how to properly use it... See you gals around in the forums...

[Debra Sheff]

Donna,
Thanks for the great feedback that more women are going into private investigation work. It has been an interest of mine for a long time. As for the salary, I am reading a book called "Do You Want Your Mother's Life" and it says too many women say I hope to reach $40,000 rather than expecting more.
Debra

[Debra Sheff]

Mary,
Great advice for how to approach getting involved in the forums. (viewing the Active Topics) Sometimes I feel like I am jumping around and forget where I have been.
I try to check in like I check my email.

Debra

[Brenda Templin]

Right after reading this thread today, I came across a website that addressed the question about female investigators. Below are two quotes from top PI agencies.




In the early 70's there were very few female private investigators. I know of only one. I did not hire women then because I just did not think they would make good investigators. It was 1976 before I hired the first woman investigator, a woman who really proved herself and proved to me that women make excellent investigators. She did a superb job for me and was with me several years.

Since that time, I've hired many women. In each instance, they have been superior to male investigators. They can acquire data that men cannot get. They are less threatening. more and more women have come into Private investigation business, not only as investigators, but as owners of agencies.

- Nick Beltrante Beltrante & Associates




Women are naturally inquisitive. By nature we're more detail oriented. Woman are generally more compassionate. Women look at a case - especially if it involves child custody or marital situations - from a different angle then a man. A woman is also a natural for undercover work. People tell me all the time - and I take it as a compliment - 'You don't look like a Private Investigator.' I like that.

- Liz Crummey, Private Investigator - Crummey Investigations, Inc.

So ladies, just like in many other professions, it used to be a man's world. But over the past 25 or 30 years, many women have taken the challenge, proven themselves, and paved the road for the rest of us in private investigation. If we are determined to succeed in this profession, we can!

Men are most likely better suited for some jobs, while women are better suited for others. Together we will get the job done!

Make it happen!
Brenda

[Dawn Neal]

Thank you for the information it was very interesting. I'm overly happy to see that the lady's are no longer back seat drivers to this profession. I truly feel that there is room for all of us. :o

[Cheryl Gipfel -]

have worked in the telecommunications field for the last 24 years until last year...downsizing. so i am really excited to get started in something interesting.

Barbara,

I am on a new career path too due to downsizing in the telecommunications industry :rolleyes: I was not interested in pursing the same path, I wanted something different and exciting. When one door closes and another one opens seems to be the consensus in the forums. I am excited that I am now at Level 2 and waiting to receive my COE and manual.

BEST WISHES

[Barbara Cardis]

best wishes and welcome aboard!

[Athena Harris]

Reading all these comments are very interesting. Donna, you hit it right on the nose with this topic. It is very interesting to see woman growing in this field. The sad part of it all is that in the privit detective area {local police or sherriff office} the numbers are like 10% of force is woman. I was going to become a police officer when I found out the statistics of woman being promoted to Detective was 1 out of 50. So to know that in the PI world that woman are growing in strong numbers bring releif to the doubtful.

Keep up the great work ladies and gentlemen.

Thank you :D :D :D

[Anne Lilly]

It is so encouraging to discover that women have come so far in this field in such a short period of time.

Way to go!

[Gary Eads]

It's very unfortunity that women in the field of PI's, law enforcement, as well as many other field of employment are so under rate, when in fact it's a proven fact that they play a very important role throughtout the work force. Hang in there ladies, and I personally welcome any and all the help you can give me.

[Angela Beck]

Gary,
I would like to think you for those kind words to all of us women who are and will be P.I.'s. Not very many people think that us women can do such a job, but I highly disagree. We are proven them wrong so many times but it just doesn't sink in. So again Thank-you
Angela Beck :p :p

[Gary Eads]

Angela, your more than welcome, good luck to you as well as all female PIs.

[Lisa Frye -]

I know that as far as women being PI's, for myself, I can read people like a B_O_O_K! I dont know if its something alot of us are born with or what but its just something that is there!

Learn to trust your instincts! It is there for a reason. I definately feel that being a woman in this field is a definate bonus!

Lisa

[Gary Eads]

There is alot to be said for a womans insight and intuition, you sound like you definitely are on top of game in that respect,Liza good luck to you.

[Mark Loyd]

I am really quite surprised that so many women post on this site!

I think that it is great but it was just unexpected.

I want to applaud each of you for your determination to succeed in this field.

I read in an earlier post that the majority of PI's are now women!! Who would have ever thought?!

Anyway...YOU GO GIRLS! :p

[Brenda Templin]

Thank you, Mark! I wish the field had been more open to women years ago, but am happy I can get into it now. I strongly believe that men are probably best in some areas, whereas women are most likely best in others. Of course, we all have our strengths and weaknesses. :)

And the best part? We can all learn from each other. :D

Make it happen!
Brenda Templin

[Osmond McMahon]

I think it is great that so many women participate in the forums and are working in the PI filed. Women can get allot of things done in situations where men may be less effective, simply becasue they are men....

[Amalia Martinelli]

Hi Debbie,
I was reading around in the forum and saw that you also live in the bay area. I was wondering if you ever found out what the pay is like around here. Hopefully it will be good. If not then it will still be worth it. This is not JUST a job.

[Debra Sheff]

Hi Amalia,
I live in Arizona, not California. I imagine they pay more there. I did live in San Francisco and Oakland for about 10 years. It's great to see more women interested in this field.

Good Luck!
Debra

[Adonieve Stoley]

It's wonderful to see so many women opening into a field that I believe will be as rewarding as private investigation. I remember 10 years ago when I hired in as a industrial tools salesperson that I was the only female in my state, in that field, and was also why my boss had hired me: "to get an edge on the competition".

Just a thought:

With women's percentages rising in this field, I wonder how many of that percentage are single mom's.

[Carol Morrow -]

I was so very glad to see this information about women as private investigators!

My husband is all for it but I had some little nagging thoughts as to just how women were being received into this field. What I have also found out is that there are so many areas of investigation where a woman could indeed be an asset.

Thank you everyone who have posted; you have put my mind at ease, even though I wasn't going to be discouraged from pursueing it to begin with :)

[Amalia Martinelli]

I would hope that they would pay more Debra. But it's never enough living here. :)

[Brenda Black]

Hi everyone,

I'm so new (first day) at this I don't even know if I'm "threading" correctly. I feel completely overwhelmed but I was glad to read that a good starting point was "View Active Topics" through search. I'm just going to jump in and see where it goes. I was very surprised to know there are so many other women interested in this area.

Look foward to continuing in this venture. What is the difference in the "quote" and the "quick reply"?

Thanks
Brenda Black

[Amalia Martinelli]

Welcome Brenda!! Always great to see more girls. :D

[Brenda Templin]

Hi everyone,

What is the difference in the "quote" and the "quick reply"?

Thanks
Brenda Black

Brenda, the Quick Reply is just that. If you want to post a general reply in the thread, you could use that. Personally, I never use it. I use Post Reply instead so I can review and make changes, if necessary.

Use Quote when you want to reply to a specific post. Clicking on the Quote button in that person's post will open a message window with their post in it. If it is a long post, and you want to address something specific that the person said, then just edit out the other. See above where I edited out the other part of your post in the quote. ;)

Then, under the quote in your message box, add your own comments.

It is always best to use Preview Post so that you can review what the post looks like. If you find errors, typos, etc., make the changes in the message box before submitting.

If you have further questions, please go to your Introduction topic, and submit from there. This will help to keep threads on topic.

Hope this helps. :)

Brenda

[Gary Eads]

Thanks for this information, its very helpful.

[Michael Harris]

To All:

It is interesting that women are much better in many circumstaces than men. In many cases, witnesses relate better to women than to men. It is a good thing that gender is not as important in investigation as it is in may other occupations. It is one more place where my daughter can work up to her capacity if she choose PI work when she finishes college (she started last week).

Being the father of a daughter, I am all for non-sexist work environments.

[Lori A Marshall]

Hi everyone,

I can't think of a better field to work in for job security right now. With the increase in corruption in Corporate America, the need for investigators in the Corporate arena as well as public domain will continue to increase. I feel if we align ourselves with good agencies, the work will be there. Your ethics and work history will continue to open doors. I've always thought women are on equal footing in this field, women are less intimidating then men as a rule and people feel they can talk to us. I'm all for equal opportunity, its about time! My mother certainly never had the opportunities I have now.

[Angela Beck]

I can,t agree with you more Lori. Things are not going to get any better. They are slowly getting worse and I don't think that people relize that it is as bad as it is, they know that it is bad but not as bad,if you understand that.As I read through what other people write and read the news paper, really understand the news paper it is just terrible what this world has come to. Something to think about. I think that it is time for another great flood !!!!!

[Victoria S Kinney]

Good morning ladies, it was so good to read so many good threads and to see how many ladies are getting into this field, I was getting alittle discouraged but after reading all these I have made up my mind to put more effort into doing what I have always wanted to do, be a private investigator and to continue with my classes. Thank you one and all. Take care. ;)

[Viki Hostek]

Hi to everyone.I think women make wonderful P.I. 's because we have "woman's intuition".If we listen to our gut instincts we are usually right.There is a great book out there for women to read it is called "The Gift Of Fear" and in it he tells us women to trust our insticts. So Im glad to see women getting into this field.I hope to have my own business one day.Not just for cheating husbands but for anything and everything.

[Catherine Perry -]

Wow, this is great news. I am also happy to see more women in this field. I have always had the instinct to do this type of work, but always thought it would be more suitable for men. I am glad I connected with such a great group of women and look forward to some day being able to help someone out there with what ever service a PI can provide. ;)

Best of luck to all women who chooses to persue this career!

[Cheryl Gipfel -]

Brenda,

You answer members questions so succinctly and concise. You're the best!!

Cheryl

[Aricka Render]

it is nice to see so many woman getting into this field. I'm going to school for Criminial Justice and I'm enjoying both. It's a good feeling to have gorl power behind you.
Looking forward to keeping up with girl power sections they are very enlightening and encouraging.
A'ricka

[Viki Hostek]

Aricka, I'm sure being a woman has it's limitations. I would so think anyway. At least at first. I live in a really safe neighborhood now and if I had to do survillence work in a not so safe neighborhood I know I would be scared.What really instersts me is insurance fraud and maybe mystery shopping right now. In time with more experience I may change my mind. Also this Sunday night movie I watched a few weeks ago that was a true story about a woman P.I. who had a lot of cheating husband/wife cases, would definitely be an option.

[Roberta A Bryant]

I can tell you how I get so many posts. IPIU has become a regular part of my day. Currently, I'm working on it happening at the same time every day. I don't have as many as Donna, however. A lot of that is because the flu bug has been through this house twice in the month I've been here! So I have had several days of not being here.

When I log onto the main Forums page, I always do a "VIEW ACTIVE TOPICS" search and that tells me where to start each day. I don't always get through all of them. But I go as far as I can. I do a lot of welcoming of newbies because I really do like that sort of thing.

And I try and keep my posts personal, but when I get to the other levels, I very well may have to resort to something a bit more canned. I'm going to fight doing that until I have to. As we gain forum accesses that are higher, it will get to be too much.

Hope that helps ya!

Mary

Mary,
when I took online classes I found it better to try and get my posts done at the same time during the day preferably in the morning and then check for responses in the evening, I started to do that here but I made a move and was without internet for 3 weeks I am trying my best to get back in the same habitl One you break a pattern it is hard to get back into the swing of things
Roberta Bryant

[Amalia Martinelli]

I think it is wonderful that so many women are getting strong enough to take on a "man's job". I think people have this picture that PI's are supposed to be big burly men. But in reality it's just us little women doing a better and more precise job than men. :D

[Roberta A Bryant]

I think it is wonderful that so many women are getting strong enough to take on a "man's job". I think people have this picture that PI's are supposed to be big burly men. But in reality it's just us little women doing a better and more precise job than men. :D

Amalia,
I worked construction for 4 years and I went to cut a peice of steel for the house and the guys all said that I would not be able to perform this task, turned out not only did I perfrom the task I ended up being the top rod buster on our crew and held this position for most of the four years. Not only was I strong enough I was more accurate and faster. I not only am a women I was old enough to be most of these guys mother! I hate when someone tells me I can not do something because I am a female. It makes me try all the harder!
Roberta ;)

[Viki Hostek]

I have 3 sisters who said if I get my P.I. license they will come to work for me. My Mom even said she wants a piece of it. She wants to find the cheaters. She said she knows where to find them, I think she's had a bit of experience. With our woman's "intuition" I think we will make good P.I.'s. I know getting started I want to work every aspect of the business that I can until , I know what I like and what I'm good at.

[Judith Bray]

Is it just my pet-peeve or what? This forum has so many type errors, spelling errors, and bad speech that I am having an awful time reading it just because I find myself wanting to correct the I's that need capitalized, or the mix-ups in proper language usage! The reading was okay, seems no one has been here for months or something though. I think this is a good place to show your proper type skills,grammar, and professionalism. Plus, it's good practice.
Girl Power is Awesome! I have to agree there. I will be a great P.I. and I am so close!
Thanks to all whom have helped.

[Ricki Smith]

Amalia,
I worked construction for 4 years and I went to cut a peice of steel for the house and the guys all said that I would not be able to perform this task, turned out not only did I perfrom the task I ended up being the top rod buster on our crew and held this position for most of the four years. Not only was I strong enough I was more accurate and faster. I not only am a women I was old enough to be most of these guys mother! I hate when someone tells me I can not do something because I am a female. It makes me try all the harder!
Roberta ;)
Not all men are that way!! I feel more power to you!! There are very few things a woman can not do that a man does.........and have worked with a lot of women who did the job very well! DO hate the ladies who try to "charm" the men into helping them all the time though!! Keep up the good work and hope all is well with you!

[Ricki Smith]

Is it just my pet-peeve or what? This forum has so many type errors, spelling errors, and bad speech that I am having an awful time reading it just because I find myself wanting to correct the I's that need capitalized, or the mix-ups in proper language usage! The reading was okay, seems no one has been here for months or something though. I think this is a good place to show your proper type skills,grammar, and professionalism. Plus, it's good practice.
Girl Power is Awesome! I have to agree there. I will be a great P.I. and I am so close!
Thanks to all whom have helped.
Ladies are awesome and keep up the good work!! I also agree that some of the post are hard to understand and not very well thought out! Take care. :D

[Tracy Perez]

I agree with the woman's intution.. It is good to see woman in here. I am so glad to be a part of this . Go ! Girl Power! :D

[Amalia Martinelli]

That is so awesome of you Roberta! I love it when I hear about women like you. I hope I will always have strength and courage like you do! :)

[Roberta A Bryant]

Amila,
It really wasn't courage it was determination. No man is going to tell me I cannot do a job he can and have proved it many times. In most instances women actually do them better because of the fact we are told we can't and it seems women are more perfectionists when it comes to a lot of tasks
You will be trust me
Roberta

[Amalia Martinelli]

That is so Roberta! That's probably why they don't want us to do "their" jobs, cause they know we will do them better. :D

[Cynthia Keating]

Amila,
It really wasn't courage it was determination. No man is going to tell me I cannot do a job he can and have proved it many times. In most instances women actually do them better because of the fact we are told we can't and it seems women are more perfectionists when it comes to a lot of tasks
You will be trust me
Roberta

Good for you Roberta!
The minute we start believing we cannot do something or that we are somehow less capable, we become helpless.
It's all about confidence and determination and I personally despise the word "cant". I think this is a phenomenal business for women and I am thrilled by the current statistics. :D
Best Wishes to All!

[Cleo Evans]

Just a thought:

With women's percentages rising in this field, I wonder how many of that percentage are single mom's.

Adonieve,

I would think the percentage would be fairly high if you combined single moms/women and moms with older or grown children. My thinking?........OK you guys', now it's MY turn to do what I want! ;)

[Ricki Smith]

Adonieve,

I would think the percentage would be fairly high if you combined single moms/women and moms with older or grown children. My thinking?........OK you guys', now it's MY turn to do what I want! ;)
I am a single dad of two girls and have been since they were 1 and 3. My mom was a single mother of three so I see both sides of it!! More power to all that take on more than the average!!

[Roberta A Bryant]

cynthia,
even around the house hubby is always telling me something needs to be fixed. I seem to know more about the house then him. I was single for a long time maybe that had something to do with it. When your single with kids you learn to do for yourself and not depend on anyone else
Roberta

[Roberta A Bryant]

That is so Roberta! That's probably why they don't want us to do "their" jobs, cause they know we will do them better. :D

Amelia,
I think that in a lot of instances we would have the advantage. When it comes to insurance fraud I can go to construction sites and do many tasks and blend in even ride around as if I am an inspector all I need is that white truck or act as a homeowner checking on the progress of how my home is coming. There are so many different things that a guy would never even suspect.
Roberta Bryant :)

[Amalia Martinelli]

Yeah we do have a lot of advantages. I guess if guys actually paid attention other than that one thing they might realize what's going on. But I'm glad they are that way. Better for us women! :D

[Patti Schubert]

:)

Girls Rule & Boys Drool

:D

Patti

[Amalia Martinelli]

LOL!!! That's right Patti!!!! :D

[Cleo Evans]

I am a single dad of two girls and have been since they were 1 and 3. My mom was a single mother of three so I see both sides of it!! More power to all that take on more than the average!!

Sorry for taking so long to get back to you, Ricki. This never made it to my email. :eek:

Glad to see you can be objective on the subject. Thanks for your vote of confidence! It goes a long way.

Have a great day! :)

Cleo

[Jessica Rose O'Bryan -]

Always good to hear a story on how well women are doing in the field. However, the statistics that I have been hearing have been contradicting. Does anyone have a suggestion as to where I can find a valid statistic on the number of women who are involved in private investigating?? Thank you.

[Katrina Burton Todd]

Thank you Donna for sharing that information. It's good to know that a percentage of women are interested in the field.

Katrina

[Marissa Grimes -]

I just can't get over that statistic! 65% are women! That is so awesome, and so encouraging! Thanks for the great info! YOU GO, GIRLS! :cool:

[Samir Tulic]

Nothing without females:O)

[Kenneth Owens]

I would like to read that story as well. I always believed that women could do anything as good as a man and better. One of the high schools I played football for even had a woman who played on the boys team. She is in our hall of fame. I seen here play before I got in high school. She was as good as anybody on the field and just as tough. I give my props for all you women out there that prove the theory of women being as good as men. My wife and I talk about this all the time. For the wages, don't believe everything you see on the t.v.. I think you make as much as you want. You just have to work for it. I've read how some P.I.'s made as much as $300,000 a year. It just takes someone who is willing to work for it to earn it.

[Renee Thigpen]

Every job is not a man's job.There is no such thing as a man's job.Anything a man can do a woman can do and in some cases even better.There is no point in stereotyping any job because you can do anything you out your mind to.It's your choice to det the trend!

[Angela York]

[B]Laughing in Texas!! Hey ladies. Remember, "men are from Mars and women are from Venus." Poor guys being picked on....grinning....hey pick on me. I bite...just kidding...

[Deborah Springer]

I just wanted to add-I definetly can appreciate the comments within this forum. I would like to share that I have always wanted to inquire more about this field, and I am approaching a point in my life where I may need to change employment due to a corporate merger. I had my AHA moment when a local paper here in Delaware published an article on women private investigators in the state and nationwide. The article reported today's percentage of women in the field, and the opportunity for growth in the future. In addition, there were comments from local licensed female investigators describing their experience and excitement. I was overjoyed to read about their careers.
I thought, yes, women can rock too!
If anyone would like to read it, I am searching for the link now to share.
All the best,
Debbie

[Debbie Richardson]

Hi Deborah,

I'm interested in reading this article. I actually read a good one right here at the top of the page,where it says..PI Stories or PI NEWS.....check it out!

Debbie

[Debbie Richardson]

However, the statistics that I have been hearing have been contradicting. Does anyone have a suggestion as to where I can find a valid statistic on the number of women who are involved in private investigating?? Thank you.


Hi Jessica,

Did you ever get anyone to send you a valid statistic on the following subject? I would like to know since I've heard different as well. Have a great day!

Debbie R.

[Stacey Lawalin]

Hello everyone! This forum has been very enlightening. It's nice to see that so many females are getting into this field. Good Luck to everyone!

[Patricia Clyne]

Hello everyone! This forum has been very enlightening. It's nice to see that so many females are getting into this field. Good Luck to everyone!
Stacey - I was just about to say the same thing after reading these posts,
so....... DITTO :D . Good luck to everyone in their endeavors and keep us posted as to how you're doing out there ;)
Thanks,
Patti

[Kathryn Bauers]

I am anxiously waiting for my training materials in the mail. I have enjoyed all of the forums, especially this story. I am 23 and have been out of college for about a year. I always intended to go to law school, but I worked for an attorney as his assistant and lets just say it was not a good experience. We used a PI service to search for clients who did not want to pay their fee or clients who had disappeared. I was so interested in their line of work, that I looked into it and here I am. Its reassuring to hear that so many other women are entering this feild and succeeding. I cannot wait to start this new chapter. Good luck to everyone. Male and female.

[Diana Franco -]

Hi Kathry and everyone else-funny we've got alot in common. I graduated college a few years ago and also started working for a lawfirm, here in Fort Lauderdale, Florida with the intentions of going to law school. Needless to say here I am too! I just found myself grabbing all the investigative duties that came up at work. I would get on whatever needed to be found instead of contacting the investigator we use. I've been there for over two years, learned everything there is for me to learn and its time to move on...its been a learning experiences, I'd even say that I've obtained the information we've needed at work probably 8 out of 10 times. So leaving only 20% to our investigator. Its time--good luck to you and all.
Diana

[Frederick Budde]

If anyone knows how we can get more women involved with federal law enforcement career opportunities, please let me know.

[Mary Saunders*-]

Amen Renee!!!!

[Heather A Jones]

single mom here!!!!!

[Todd Heddleson]

as far as women being pi's I only have one thing to say about that/ ok a couple of things, first WONDERFUL!! and IT'S ABOUT TIME!! :cool: :)

[Todd Heddleson]

some of you woman say that you can do things as good as us men :) i'll be the first to admit on my last job there were girls that could do things better then me. there were girls that could out work alot of men there, and they were :mad: about it. so ladys { male shovenistic pigs } belong in a pin!! you belong were you are happy :) if being a pi makes you happy :) then work were your happy,if your not happy were your working!

[Lura Jones]

:confused:



Hello Mary,

Hey thanks for the tip on the "View Active Topics". I had no clue to go there...thanks to you I do now. I have just been pretty much replying to my email messages and then go from there. It depends on whether or not I have time, but I also jump around using the pull down menu of forums. I'm still trying to figure out my way around and I'm still overwhelmed. I just hope I am doing the processes right and doing something I'm not suppose to.

I guess if I messed up somewhere I would have been notified by the proper authority. So far, so good! Whoosh…Thanks for replying to my message and I also appreciate you sharing your info with all of us. Have a great day and keep up the good work!

Yes Thanks! Now the first thing I do after logging on is view the active topics. But I'm afraid I read a great deal more than I post. I have gotten such great info on such a variety of subjects. Who knew there were so many P.I.'s willing to cooperate andhelp each other! Wow! This is a great place! :D

[Mary Rose]

If anyone knows how we can get more women involved with federal law enforcement career opportunities, please let me know.

Frederick, wouldn't the ball be in the Federal Govt's court on recruiting more women? I would think the women are there, but we are wondering how to crack the glass and get in. I would love to get involved. Thanks,

[Frederick Budde]

Frederick, wouldn't the ball be in the Federal Govt's court on recruiting more women? I would think the women are there, but we are wondering how to crack the glass and get in. I would love to get involved. Thanks,

To my knowledge, job fairs expressly targeting women have been given, and recruiters have visited women's colleges and universities, but interest has been poor (to say the least). The other problem is after training, they meet a nice fed cop and get married or pregnant.
Please don't accuse me of being a male chauvinistic pig (I know I am :p ), but those are the facts.
If you (or anyone else out there) feel you could meet the qualifications, please visit the recruiting websites. Good luck, and I hope to see you on board!

[Mary Rose]

Well, you made me laugh out loud. I guess it could be the whole Officer & Gentleman thing. I would definitely be interested in seeing if I would be qualified. Can you point me toward the recruting websites? I would like to see what qualifications are needed and how to go about next steps. Thanks for getting back with me.

[Frederick Budde]

Well, you made me laugh out loud. I guess it could be the whole Officer & Gentleman thing. I would definitely be interested in seeing if I would be qualified. Can you point me toward the recruting websites? I would like to see what qualifications are needed and how to go about next steps. Thanks for getting back with me.
Good morning, Mary.
Try usajobs.gov, and then sort by series 1801, 1811, etc. There might be links to search by job title.

[Suzanne Leder]

Frederick,
I agree with Mary Rose that there are more women interested in the career field, but don't know how to get involved. I also agree with you on the getting married and having children phase of it, but women are told that children are better off staying at home than in Day Care. I believe more women would keep working if we weren't told our children were better off with us at home.

A working mother.

[Cynthia Blackman]

I can tell you how I get so many posts. IPIU has become a regular part of my day. Currently, I'm working on it happening at the same time every day. I don't have as many as Donna, however. A lot of that is because the flu bug has been through this house twice in the month I've been here! So I have had several days of not being here.

When I log onto the main Forums page, I always do a "VIEW ACTIVE TOPICS" search and that tells me where to start each day. I don't always get through all of them. But I go as far as I can. I do a lot of welcoming of newbies because I really do like that sort of thing.

And I try and keep my posts personal, but when I get to the other levels, I very well may have to resort to something a bit more canned. I'm going to fight doing that until I have to. As we gain forum accesses that are higher, it will get to be too much.

Hope that helps ya!

Mary
I wish I was able to make so many posts but, I don't have a computer. On top of that I have to deal with a 3yr old and a 7yr old by myself.
Us ladies are taking over.

[Cheryl Bliton]

:)
Good morning, Mary.
Try usajobs.gov, and then sort by series 1801, 1811, etc. There might be links to search by job title.

:) Thanks Frederick for the information. I was wondering if there was an age limit with the federal government?

thanks :D

[Frederick Budde]

:)

:) Thanks Frederick for the information. I was wondering if there was an age limit with the federal government?

thanks :D

The only age restrictions are if you want to become a federal law officer; then the limit is 37. This is because the retirement is mandatory after 20 years. Most SA's stay on, however, and just give up the right to carry a weapon. Even this is being reviewed with the current need for operatives. Good luck, and maybe I'll see you in Washington :)

[Cheryl Bliton]

The only age restrictions are if you want to become a federal law officer; then the limit is 37. This is because the retirement is mandatory after 20 years. Most SA's stay on, however, and just give up the right to carry a weapon. Even this is being reviewed with the current need for operatives. Good luck, and maybe I'll see you in Washington :)


Thanks Frederick, but I'm past that age. Darn it. :(

[Steven D Mahan]

Julia Great Information On The Stats. Male Or Female If Its A Strong Point,go For It.

[Frederick Budde]

Thanks Frederick, but I'm past that age. Darn it. :(

Aha! But you could still be a Special Agent, series 1801 (Investigator); no age limit! I'm a classic example of that! :)

[Ed Dufresne]

PI's now a days definately come in all shape/size/and colors...Soccer mom by day,
Gumshoe by night...
( No Disrespect intended )

Ed Dufresne

[Scott Bole]

Sometimes things change for the better...there is nothing about this field that should exclude women.

[Mary Rose]

Ain't life grand. Just look at how far society has come. There's plenty out there for all of us. Let's go for it!

[Frederick Budde]

PI's now a days definately come in all shape/size/and colors...Soccer mom by day,
Gumshoe by night...
( No Disrespect intended )

Ed Dufresne
:)

[Lura Jones]

PI's now a days definately come in all shape/size/and colors...Soccer mom by day,
Gumshoe by night...
( No Disrespect intended )

Ed Dufresne

In many surveillance instances as well as in process service when the person is avoiding service it is a deffinate advantage in being a female operative. I personally believe it every agency should have at least one part time or smeone with another agency they call call on to work certain cases.

[Margaret Davis]

I would definitely like to pursue this avenue, especially since I am currently not working. Where would be the absolute first place to start for getting prepared in MN? Also, if I am planning to move out of state, should I wait to do it at my new home?

[Mary Rose]

Margaret, I think you should wait until you move as every state has different qualifications and policies for obtaing your license. Good luck to you.

[Mary Rose]

In many surveillance instances as well as in process service when the person is avoiding service it is a deffinate advantage in being a female operative. I personally believe it every agency should have at least one part time or smeone with another agency they call call on to work certain cases.

Lura, I agree with you. I don't think people suspect a woman of serving papers as much as they would men. Just remember though, it can be dangerous so be careful out there.

[Frederick Budde]

I would definitely like to pursue this avenue, especially since I am currently not working. Where would be the absolute first place to start for getting prepared in MN? Also, if I am planning to move out of state, should I wait to do it at my new home?

Since almost all states have a requirement showing experience, I would get started as soon as possible!

[Mary Rose]

Frederick, I am planning on applying for my process server license in AZ. I would like to prepare before I take the exam. Can you give me any suggestions on how to prepare for it? Obviously I don't know what kinds of questions they will ask. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

[Frederick Budde]

Frederick, I am planning on applying for my process server license in AZ. I would like to prepare before I take the exam. Can you give me any suggestions on how to prepare for it? Obviously I don't know what kinds of questions they will ask. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

Sorry, I have no knowledge or background in process serving, but I'm sure others on the forum can assist. You might check and see if there are any State organizations you could contact, or even the group giving the exam might tell you what areas are covered on the exam. Let me know how you make out.

[Meghan Arciuolo]

65% of all private investigators are now female, whereas in 1985 there were only 10% female.

Although the report said 10% had something in their background, it did not say they could still become good private investigators.

In our Licensing Forum, most states allow private investigators to operate in many areas of investigations without a license.

(If your news station has a web site, there is a good chance that the story is posted there. I'd like to read it)


Wow, I am really surprised that 65% of private investigators are female! I had no idea it was such a growing profession among women. I am just about to graduate from Northeastern University in Boston, with a degree in Criminal Justice. I must say that I am one of the only people I know of pursuing a career in the PI field. Most females I know in my major are pursuing a career in social services or in the law field. I guess you learn something new every day!

[Mary Saunders*-]

Sometimes things change for the better...there is nothing about this field that should exclude women.


AMEN, Scott!!! I believe that women are so detailed oriented that this is a great field for them.

[Mary Rose]

Sorry, I have no knowledge or background in process serving, but I'm sure others on the forum can assist. You might check and see if there are any State organizations you could contact, or even the group giving the exam might tell you what areas are covered on the exam. Let me know how you make out.


Thanks Frederick. Take care

[Lura Jones]

Lura, I agree with you. I don't think people suspect a woman of serving papers as much as they would men. Just remember though, it can be dangerous so be careful out there.

Thanks I will. It also helps in getting information. For some strange reason people are more willing to talk to a woman than they are to a man. :)

[Frederick Budde]

Thanks I will. It also helps in getting information. For some strange reason people are more willing to talk to a woman than they are to a man. :)
I think men feel less threatened by a woman. Little do we know :p

[Mary Rose]

LOL, Frederick, you are a smart man. You never can tell what we women are up to. I do agree though. I think that most people would not expect to be served by a woman, because it is considered a potentially dangerous job. I believe women would be very good at process serving.

[Frederick Budde]

LOL, Frederick, you are a smart man. You never can tell what we women are up to. I do agree though. I think that most people would not expect to be served by a woman, because it is considered a potentially dangerous job. I believe women would be very good at process serving.

Since I have no experience with "serving", is it possible to pick out the papers you want to serve? or locations? Or is that limiting yourself too much? I would think it's the old "take the good with the bad...", but I really have no experience with that aspect. Believe it or not, I've never been served! :)

[Lura Jones]

I think men feel less threatened by a woman. Little do we know :p

You are a very smart man Fredrick. :)

[Kimberly Totos]

In many surveillance instances as well as in process service when the person is avoiding service it is a deffinate advantage in being a female operative. I personally believe it every agency should have at least one part time or smeone with another agency they call call on to work certain cases.

Lura i agree and have seen that advantage. Alot of agencies are now having ATLEAST one female investigator on call for assignments such as cheating spouse cases or posing as "eye candy" bait.

[Ms Melody Deloatch -]

Hello Everyone,

I am new here and I guess I'm at step # 2. Tommorow I will be getting my fingerprints and pictures done so that I can mail them off. I have read all the info on how to fold the print card and everything. My question is what happens next? I read in an earlier post that after the test theres a step 4. Could someone just break down the process of how you go from applying to working? Again this is probably my 2nd post in the past couple of years....yes years. I started looking into this in 2002 but never really dedicated myself, but I've come to terms with the fact that this is really what I want to pursue.

Thank you for all of your post with so much helpful information. I am will to accept any helpful information you may have for someone who is just getting starting like myself.

Also is anyone from the North Carolina area?

[Michael Harris]

Hmmm!

North Carolina, is that the state that will see one of the next eight hurricanes for the season?

Melody,

On a serious note, Welcome.

[Ms Melody Deloatch -]

Yes....that would be us.

Well I have to say that I called the police station in my town to get my fingerprints done. I told them it was for employment and they told me that they didn't do them and that I would need to contact the CCBI (City/County Bereau of Investigations) and have them do it. I asked did she know the address or phone # and she said no.

I haven't given up, I just don't understand why they couldn't do it, they are right around the corner from me yet I have to go to the next town which is about 45mins away.

Melody

[Michelle Adams]

Hmmm!

North Carolina, is that the state that will see one of the next eight hurricanes for the season?

Melody,

On a serious note, Welcome.


Now that wasn't funny..then again, you may be right and will produce lots of work!

[Michelle Adams]

Yes....that would be us.

Well I have to say that I called the police station in my town to get my fingerprints done. I told them it was for employment and they told me that they didn't do them and that I would need to contact the CCBI (City/County Bereau of Investigations) and have them do it. I asked did she know the address or phone # and she said no.

I haven't given up, I just don't understand why they couldn't do it, they are right around the corner from me yet I have to go to the next town which is about 45mins away.

Melody

Melody, all I can say is keep reading and follow all of the steps, reach out and ask lots of questions. If you are not getting answers, call the corp office and they will help you. I say this because I had to call a couple of times to get my info resent. It take time, patience and dedication. What you put into it is what you will get out of it. Good luck and welcome! :)

[Michelle Adams]

Lura i agree and have seen that advantage. Alot of agencies are now having ATLEAST one female investigator on call for assignments such as cheating spouse cases or posing as "eye candy" bait.

Your correct and that is what I heard too.

[Michelle Adams]

Frederick, wouldn't the ball be in the Federal Govt's court on recruiting more women? I would think the women are there, but we are wondering how to crack the glass and get in. I would love to get involved. Thanks,


All I can say is good luck. Here in OH-10 (Ohio) it's a man's old school world! Maybe someday before I am 6ft under that can be changed! I think they should wake up and smell the coffee as it is 2006 hello!

[Donna Reagan]

Update:

Out of the 50,000 private investigator members worldwide, more than half of them are female.

It may be a "man's world" in some circles, but maybe that's because the men are answering the office phone and the female owners and managers are writing the checks. ;)

Donna

[Frederick Budde]

Update:

Out of the 50,000 private investigator members worldwide, more than half of them are female.

It may be a "man's world" in some circles, but maybe that's because the men are answering the office phone and the female owners and managers are writing the checks. ;)

Donna
Rub it in, Donna, rub it in :p

[Silvia A Andrade]

I am very proud to be a woman and be part of the family. I am also glad to see that there is many women in on this too!!!

[Cindy Mekeel]

Women have come along way in this field and many others. It's great to see that maybe befor long that the % of women will be even higher.

[Lace Waldron]

I found out one thing for certain, women have a better work ethic then men! I am sure that comment will stir up this pot.

[Frederick Budde]

I found out one thing for certain, women have a better work ethic then men! I am sure that comment will stir up this pot.
You ladies are dyin' for a fight, heh?:)

Happy Halloween, all!

[Lace Waldron]

Some battles are best left unfought!;)

[Frederick Budde]

Some battles are best left unfought!;)

Agreed; except for making up after the battle:p

[Lace Waldron]

I don't even want to go there! You are so bad!! lol:D

[Frederick Budde]

I don't even want to go there! You are so bad!! lol:D

That's what keeps me going!:)
Seriously, I wish more women would apply themselves to the security field. I hope once the word gets out that PI's are not cops (and shouldn't think of themselves that way), there will be more interest in the field.

[Lace Waldron]

I agree, this field is not enforcing the laws but gathering information to support the truth. I believe that many new people think that being a PI is all about carrying a badge and a gun, nothing could be further from the truth.:)

[Johnny Ginsberg]

I agree, this field is not enforcing the laws but gathering information to support the truth. I believe that many new people think that being a PI is all about carrying a badge and a gun, nothing could be further from the truth.:)

I'd like to say that I agree with both of you, Fritz and Lace. PI's are for information and reporting the facts, not to glamorize going around like Magnum PI or Charlie's Angels.

[Frederick Budde]

I'd like to say that I agree with both of you, Fritz and Lace. PI's are for information and reporting the facts, not to glamorize going around like Magnum PI or Charlie's Angels.

Any way we can spread the word? If you read some of the other forums, many of the "newbies" feel that they are going to become the civilian arm of the police department:(

[Johnny Ginsberg]

Any way we can spread the word? If you read some of the other forums, many of the "newbies" feel that they are going to become the civilian arm of the police department:(

I'm not sure how to publicise our profession, other than make people aware that this is not an easy thing. You don't necessarily make a whole lot of money right off the bat. Also, there are always going to be "cowboys" and "yay-hoo's" who think they know it all and can go out there and be like LEO's without all the restrictions LEO's have on how to do their job. Too much romanticism, perhaps. I say this since I was a non-sworn Reserve officer with a Minnesota police department, and I saw some individuals with that kind of behavior.

[Lace Waldron]

The people thinking that it is like on TV, don't last long once they find out how hard work it really is. I think women go into it knowing more about what the work is really like. The guys are one bang bang shootum up.

[Frederick Budde]

The people thinking that it is like on TV, don't last long once they find out how hard work it really is. I think women go into it knowing more about what the work is really like. The guys are one bang bang shootum up.

Lace;
Will you stop picking on me:D ?
Unfortunately, I see many women with the same "gung ho" attitude in other areas of the forums. Enthusiasm is great, but it has to be tendered with the reality of the job. Sitting in a cold car dying to pee (for the last two hours) and looking forward to no movement for the next 10 hours is a bummer, whether male or female. It is also getting to the point that a lot of the groundwork is done at a desk, staring at a monitor, rather than doing the "gumshoe" routine.
By the way, Michael Harris, where did the term gumshoe originate:) . For those of you not familiar with Michael, he's a wealth of information!

[Lace Waldron]

O.K. I call a truce...no more picking on you. For today anyways.:D

[Judith Bray]

Well, I have walked into a forum full of energy! I have been here is all I think I should say here......LOL

[Frederick Budde]

O.K. I call a truce...no more picking on you. For today anyways.:D

Deal! How about today?:)

[Frederick Budde]

Well, I have walked into a forum full of energy! I have been here is all I think I should say here......LOL

Thanks for the "neutrality" Judith!
I keep hoping some of the guys will back me up; oh well:p

[Lace Waldron]

O.K. it's a new day...open season on Fred! Seriously, this is a great group to debate and discuss ideas with...;)

[Frederick Budde]

O.K. it's a new day...open season on Fred! Seriously, this is a great group to debate and discuss ideas with...;)
That it is, Lace, that it is!:)

[Judith Bray]

Well, atleast ya'll are active and voice your opionions right? I love debate! Remaining neutral is a good thing..... isn't it?

[Frederick Budde]

Well, atleast ya'll are active and voice your opionions right? I love debate! Remaining neutral is a good thing..... isn't it?

Good morning, Judith!
Being neutral is sure safer on these forums:)
Any ideas on getting more women involved in the investigative field? We recently put out a hiring request for the government, and less than 1% of the applicants were female.

[Judith Bray]

I think with all the "fame and glory" that the P.I field already has one would think it would be easy to tempt women into the field. There are many shows on television that make it look like a great career,movies etc. What more can one do? The money is good, the hours... well, You never know there! I think it is a career that has to "sell" itself. What was the hiring request that was put in for the government?

[Frederick Budde]

What was the hiring request that was put in for the government?

There was a job offer for Federal Air Marshals posted some time ago.

[Lace Waldron]

I believe the Air Marshall division needs to do a better job at recruiting women and minorities. If a small % apply it is normally because of poor recruiting practices.

[Frederick Budde]

I believe the Air Marshall division needs to do a better job at recruiting women and minorities. If a small % apply it is normally because of poor recruiting practices.

Sorry, but I disagree. Top dollar, benefits, etc., but the "ladies" didn't want to be away from home overnight. Also, Lace, it's "Marshal" not "marshall".;)

[Lace Waldron]

You can disagree but the fact is the "Marshal" Service is not effective recruiting women. I also disagree with the generalization that when do not want jobs that require overnight travel. That in effect is a sexist Ideological statement. I truely believe there are a number of women that would seek out these types of jobs if properly recruited.

[Frederick Budde]

You can disagree but the fact is the "Marshal" Service is not effective recruiting women. I also disagree with the generalization that when do not want jobs that require overnight travel. That in effect is a sexist Ideological statement. I truely believe there are a number of women that would seek out these types of jobs if properly recruited.
:eek:

[Jessica M Opitz]

I have been reading through this discussion on Females Vs. Males in the world of Private Investigators. I have a thought on this topic I wanted to put out there.

I believe that we shouldn't view it as Females Vs. Males. I truly feel that to be successful in this field (or any), there has to be a balance. Working together, not for the great sex divide will prove to be so much more beneficial to all involved. This includes PIs, clients, agency, etc.

We can all learn and grow from each other's experiences, Knowledge and insight. I do agree that we all "see" things differently but I feel it is more based on the individual and not whether it is coming from a Female or a Male.

If Females want to be viewed as equals I think it behooves Females to continue the separation of sexes. Males learn just as much from Females as Females learn from Males.

I enjoyed reading the posts and love the support both Males and Females have given to each other. Much to be learned from each other! Keep the lines of communication open with our counterparts and great things shall happen!
~Jessie Marie

[Frederick Budde]

Right on, Jessie!

[Johnny Ginsberg]

Right on, Jessie!

I second that. :)

[Ashley Mayne--]

I have been reading through this discussion on Females Vs. Males in the world of Private Investigators. I have a thought on this topic I wanted to put out there.

I believe that we shouldn't view it as Females Vs. Males. I truly feel that to be successful in this field (or any), there has to be a balance. Working together, not for the great sex divide will prove to be so much more beneficial to all involved. This includes PIs, clients, agency, etc.

We can all learn and grow from each other's experiences, Knowledge and insight. I do agree that we all "see" things differently but I feel it is more based on the individual and not whether it is coming from a Female or a Male.

If Females want to be viewed as equals I think it behooves Females to continue the separation of sexes. Males learn just as much from Females as Females learn from Males.

I enjoyed reading the posts and love the support both Males and Females have given to each other. Much to be learned from each other! Keep the lines of communication open with our counterparts and great things shall happen!
~Jessie Marie

Jessica, you couldn't be more right. Good on you, mate.

[Jessica M Opitz]

Thanks Ashley! I'm glad you agree. Have a wonderful Holiday season and all the best for all the New Years to come. :)
Jessie

[Ashley Mayne--]

Your Welcome Jessica. You have a great Holiday Season too, ok?

Ashley

[Steven Lofing]

I would partner with a female, much easier to covert surveillence

[Frederick Budde]

I would partner with a female, much easier to covert surveillence
Just how do you mean that, Steven? "Partner":D

[Steven Lofing]

Just how do you mean that, Steven? "Partner":D


Hi Fritz,
I simple meant that some places are easier to mingle amonst the crowd if you just look like a normal couple. It is also easier in some cases for a female to call before a male shows up at the door....

[Frederick Budde]

Hi Fritz,
I simple meant that some places are easier to mingle amonst the crowd if you just look like a normal couple. It is also easier in some cases for a female to call before a male shows up at the door....
I know, Steven, I was trying to be sarcastic:D
Have a great day; I enjoy your posts.

[Ashley Mayne--]

Of course it depends on the place you are going to.

Some places don't welcome men as in all womens gyms or salons and so forth. Even pubs. Are there pubs in the US like that?

[Steven Lofing]

Of course it depends on the place you are going to.

Some places don't welcome men as in all womens gyms or salons and so forth. Even pubs. Are there pubs in the US like that?

Some locations are female only, mostley in Miami or San Francisco.
But they are places most straight people (me) never venture into unless survielance calls for it...............:cool:

Fritz, thanks, i was being too serious, but i did want to elaborate, especially if the partner was cute........ hmmmmmmm

[Ashley Mayne--]

Steve, your a classic mate.

What if the partner isn't cute?

[Steven Lofing]

Steve, your a classic mate.

What if the partner isn't cute?


Well lets see, lights off and a good imagination.............:cool:

Seriously Ashley, if she has a good heart:D

Ashley, how shallow do you think i am????

In all seriousness, i thank you highly for the posts i have read in all the threads, you have a great deal of caring and you show it to those you help. Keep up the great work, thanks

[Ashley Mayne--]

You are most welcome , mate.

I hope I can pass my knowledge on to anyone willing to learn. They just have to sometimes put up with my banter too. See you in the chit chat.

[Frederick Budde]

Steven;
We all have to keep our sense of humor; it's what gets me through some rough days. Keep posting, I enjoy reading the posts here.

[Lorraine L -]

It makes me so happy to hear about more and more females becoming PI's...

One would think a PI is your typical male Sherlock Holmes or Dick Tracy...

Not anymore....
WOO HOO!

You go girls!

[John Lacher -]

Hi Everyone:

Relevant to some of the discussion on this thread, I posted the following information that might shed some light on payscales, etc.

http://www.payscale.com/salary-survey/vid-16535/fid-6886

Median Salary By State
For Job=Private Detective or Investigator

Median Salary By State
For Job=Private Detective or Investigator
MedianRangeAverage
Narrow in by: Company Type, Size, City, Experience, Skills, Gender, Degrees, More...

Florida (4036) $27,140

California (2844) $36,000

Texas (2453) $33,430

Illinois (1643) $35,850

Michigan (1501) $24,180

Massachusetts (1170) $33,770

New York (926) $32,280

Georgia (861) $32,880

Compare your own State in your Personal PayScale Report

[John Lacher -]

As an additional comment to those of you who are really serious about becoming a licensed PI, I would suggest that you look into working a few years as a claims adjuster or investigator for one of the insurance carriers in your area. Although, as I look back over the years, I would not hesitate to being extremely open and flexible to relocating to the company that will give you the greatest amount of education in the shortest period of time.

Some of you may have seen recent posts I have made concerning this occupation. I can promise you that the knowledge and experience you gain as an adjuster or SIU investigator will enhance your skills profile and build a better foundation for you to stand on. Above all else, take a look at the salary base. The best part is, as I did back in the 70's, I worked part-time as a PI for several agencies while working full time as an adjuster. Those years paid off for me today. I work for several insurance carriers as a field claims examiner only because many know me from being a former adjuster and SIU fraud investigator with a national insurance carrier. Believe me, once you establish yourself and your credibility, your job in becoming a PI will generate a very nice income. You won't get rich but you won't be poor either.

Food for thought!

John Lacher
California


Average Salary By State
For Job=Claims Adjuster / Examiner / Investigator
MedianRangeAverage
Narrow in by: Company Type, Size, City, Experience, Skills, Gender, Degrees, More...


California (18305) 46997

Texas (12787) 39635

Illinois (10923) 41839

New York (10432) 50303

Florida (7739) 39669

Pennsylvania (7396) 40992

Georgia (6772) 36254

Connecticut (4353) 44828

[Michele Reid -]

I just received my starter package and hope to do well in this field. Any comments or or ideas are welcome. Thanks and have a great week.

[Kathy Garcia]

:) :)
I just wanted to say I think it's GREAT more women are entering the PI field.

GOOD FOR US!!:)

Kathy

[Michele Reid -]

Does anyone have any knowledge of references I can utilize once I start the academic criteria and testing portions to become a full fledge member of ipiu?

[Charmine Mack]

Thanks Donna and Mary for words of encouragement. I will start my day viewing "View Active Topics" from the main forum. I am a newbie trying to figure how to continue using the forum for posting. Thanks for answering this question for me.

[Michele Reid -]

I am getting my fingerprints done today by the local Police station. Already had my photos taken, and will complete the rest of the packet this week. Look forward to the good, the bad, and the ugly. Wish me luck!