A security guard’s primary role involves the
protection of goods, products, services and people. There are
many different types of security guard jobs and people who work
in this field work in extremely varied locations. Security
guards usually patrol a designated area to prevent crime and
accidental loss and to protect the assets of the company that
they work for. There are many forms of specialization within
this field and security guards work in a diverse range of
industries.
A Typical Working Day For a Security
Guard
Security guards tend to work shift work,
depending on the position that they hold. A security guard must
constantly scan and monitor his or her environment for
irregularities and discrepancies. A security guard may begin
his or her duties by performing a general sweep of the area
that is to be protected. By walking the perimeter and checking
doors, gates and windows, the security guard can check for
evidence of attempted break and enter or search for suspicious
individuals lurking in the vicinity.
Security guards also protect property
against accidental damage and loss. They watch for fire
hazards, water leaks, equipment malfunctions and so on.
Security guards may spend their entire shift checking if people
are authorized to enter a particular building or area. They
must be constantly vigilant against fraudulent attempts to
enter premises – for example an individual may present a false
ID.
Security guards use technology to help them
monitor their designated zone. They may use circuit cameras to
monitor multiple areas simultaneously. Security guards spend
some of their shift checking alarm systems and ensuring that
there are no failures or deliberate attempts to hack the
system.
Career Outlook
Security guards are employed by large
corporations, small business, charity organizations and
government entities. There are job opportunities available in
crowd control and in the bar and hospitality industry. Many
security guards are able to secure work as personal bodyguards
and independent security officers.
Security guards can find work in the finance and banking
industry, for example they may protect cash in transit for
banks or monitor the bank premises.
For individuals with the necessary skills,
abilities and training, job prospects are good. Jobs in this
field are expected to grow at an average rate of 12 percent
over the next 8 years. Individuals who are willing to relocate
to secure employment, and who possess the necessary skills and
abilities, are likely to have very good job prospects.
Promotional Potential
Many people begin their career as security
guards and progress to supervisory roles. There is the
potential to secure lucrative contracts in personal protection
with the necessary skills and experience.
Skills and Abilities
Security guards must work well under
pressure. They must be able to deal with potentially volatile
and dangerous situations in a calm, assertive manner. They must
work strictly within the guidelines of the law, being careful
to avoid excessive use of force. Security guards must be
excellent problem solvers and should have a keen eye for
noticing discrepancies, evasions or misleading information. A
security guard should have the following skills and
abilities:
• Be very fit
• Have good eyesight and hearing
• Be observant and critical
• Be responsible and reliable
• Assertive and calm
• Strong people skills
• Work well under pressure
• Pass a police check and other security clearances
Training and Education
Security guards usually need to pass an
advanced police check. They should have first aide training so
that they can respond appropriately in emergency situations.
Some job positions require that security guards have an SIA
license. There are Certificates available in security guarding
for people who are interested in entering into this particular
field. The British Security Industry Association offers further
information in relation to certification and licensing
requirements for this field.
Is a Security Right For
Me?
People who are interested in the law, who
work well in a highly regulated environment and who enjoy
protecting people and possessions are likely to be happy and
fulfilled in this particular line of work.