When it comes to providing security services, new employees often seek tips for performing their jobs to the best level possible. Reaching out to security mentors and experienced guards can give an inside glimpse into industry strategies. Here are some helpful tips compiled from former security guards:
When you’re just starting out in a new security
position, there’s a lot to take in. From
learning employee names to getting to know the
layout of a new property, there’s much to learn.
One of the best ways to dive into the field is
to really get to know your client and their
business. Do your research. Ensure you
understand what their role and industry involve.
Establishing a good relationship with your
clients will also ensure you are meeting their
expectations. You’ll also feel more comfortable
to approach them with any issues you’re having
on the job or any questions you have about their
work.
Stay informed about local events and happenings.
Being informed about current crime trends and
activity rates will increase your vigilance. For
example, if certain types of vehicles crimes
have spiked in the last few weeks, you may need
to pay extra attention to parking areas.
Keeping up to date with the news will also keep
you in the loop about upcoming events in the
area. For example, if you’re patrolling a retail
area, knowing about holiday parades, store
closures, or limited parking will help inform
your patrol.
As a security guard, it’s your job to be aware of emergency procedures and to identify potential for emergency situations. Get to know the emergency protocol for a fire disaster, inclement weather, or lockdown situation. Being familiar with each type of alarm and the procedures for addressing the issues will help you better assist the public(and your client) in the event of an emergency.
Staying in shape is a great way to improve your
performance as a security guard. Consider
building a gym routine into your daily schedule
either before or after your work shift. Keeping
fit will help you perform your patrols without
getting overly tired.
Your role as a security guard can be taxing
physically, so you’ll want to make sure you
develop a fitness routine that helps improve
your cardio respiratory endurance. Spending time
jogging, jump-roping, or bicycling can all
decrease the chance of getting out of breath
when on a patrol.
As a security guard, the last thing that you
want to do is to alert a criminal to an
unmonitored area. Don’t fall into the habit of
making your routes predictable. When
patrolling,be sure to change up your route
regularly, while also varying the time intervals
that you make your rounds.
For example, you can patrol at 10-minute
intervals, 15-minute intervals, 20-minute
intervals, etc., making sure to alternate
between them. Change up the pattern of your
patrol and stop at different points during your
patrol so that there’s never predictable time
when an area will be unmonitored.