Communication Tips for Clients and Security Guards

Effective Communication is a Must

The relationship between a third-party security guard and the team at their assigned location is a unique one. Because the security guard is not a direct employee of the site, it's necessary for the site personnel to keep the guard up to date on vital information about their business.

Likewise, the security guard must know when to ask questions and how to be flexible when challenges arrive. In today's post, we discuss some strategies for developing open communication between all members involved in a security plan.

Keep Assumptions to a Minimum

As with many things in life, it's imperative to not make assumptions about a security guard or a site. For example, a business owner should not assume that a third-party security guard is aware of the parking deck construction that is happening near the business. Similarly, a security guard should not assume that a business owner has the same security background they have. Overcommunication is always better than under communication.

Ask for Feedback

While the old adage "No news is good news" may stand true in some situations, it's not always the case when it comes to feedback about a security job. Don't hesitate to ask for feedback from the team members around you.

If you're a security guard, asking for feedback about your patrols, your demeanor, or your communication style can open lines of communication and improve your performance. You may see an opportunity for growth in your role. In the same vein, site personnel can ask security guards about their thoughts on the current security structure and whether their communication channels are effective.

Be Polite but Straightforward

When it comes to security, neither party wants to leave any room for confusion. Both the security guard and the site personnel's goals are to ensure the safety of the location. If you're a security guard whose job performance is being hampered by the fact you haven't been given access to the new door codes, politely bring this up to the site personnel.

Present solutions to this problem. If you are the business owner and are having trouble remembering where the security guard's post is throughout the week, ask if they can provide a written copy of their patrol route to help keep you in the loop.

Acknowledge the Positives

It's all too common for people to focus on what they see as deficiencies. Remember to bring attention to the positive things that you notice. If your site's team has done a great job including you, a security guard, in updates about events at the job location, tell them so.

If you're a business owner that's noticed a security guard has helped reduce inventory loss, show them the numbers. Humans respond positively to encouragement, so let people know you appreciate what they're doing.