9 Essential Skills for a Security Guard Job

From dealing with drunken brawlers to armed robberies, security guards have a very challenging job. They’re the official go-to person for any security-related concern at any business premises. The constant possibility of threat means that a professional security guard should be active and alert at all times. Here are the nine essential skills that separate a klutz from a pro.

#1: Honesty

As a security guard, you will have to work closely with your employer. Your job will give you access to several restricted areas within your employer’s premises. As a result, you need to be honest and trustworthy to protect and to serve them better. Creating and maintaining trust with your employer is essential for your job.

#2: Preparedness

You need to be properly trained and equipped to deal with all sorts of situations that come your way. Suitable clothing, comfortable boots and proper equipment are a must-have at all times. You may have to buy an essential security gear so as to carry out your duties efficiently.

#3: Rationality

Apart from quick reflexes, security guards are required to make quick judgment calls on various threats and how to respond to each threat. Rationality involves assessing the situation around you and predicting how best to manage any threats arising.

#4: Swift Reflexes

Security guards are required to remain alert and cautious at all times. They must be able to quickly assess whatever is going around them. This alertness should be reflected in how quickly you can respond to a given, potentially dangerous, situation.

#5: Training

When you sign up for a security guard job, your duties will not be limited to fieldwork. You should have basic education as you’ll have to understand all security operations and risks. The better you can grasp key security concepts and client briefings, the more efficient you will become at your job.

#6: Leadership Skills

Some situations (such as community patrols or event security) will require you to work with your colleagues as a team. Other situations may require you to act as the Head of Security and manage a team of security guards. This means that you’ll need certain leadership and team building skills to perform your duty properly.

#7: Fitness & Strength

While you need not have an Olympian physique for this job, strength and fitness can come in handy at your job. Whether you want to outrun a thief or engage with the opponent, you’ll need to be in a good shape to tackle these challenging situations that put your agility to the test.

#8: Communication

Whether you’re managing your team, addressing your colleagues or reporting to your client, you’ll need effective communication skills to explain the situation to them better. Effective communication ensures that your client receives in loop on all the security measures your company intends to take.

#9: Respect

Your job may require you to physically engage with miscreants and intruders. As a professional, you’ll have to make sure not to hit any innocent bystander and to know who your enemy is at all times. This requires extensive training and attention to detail.