10 Common Misconceptions About Security Guards
When you think of a security guard, what comes to your mind? Do you see a large man with a frown on his face and his arms firmly folded?
Security guards are among the most stereotyped and misunderstood professions out there!
We’re not here to defend security guards (they can do that themselves) but we are here to clear up some common misconceptions about the profession.
Whether you’re looking for security services or you want to become a security guard yourself, this article will give you the accurate information you need to make an informed decision.
1. Being Big and Beefy Is a Prerequisite for Security Guards
Physical strength is one of the main qualities you see in security guards, but it’s not the only trait they need. In fact, security guards don’t need to look like a bodybuilder at all to be successful.
Some of the most important traits to look for in a security guard include good communication, negotiation abilities, interpersonal skills, and expertise in observation. Fast-thinking security guards will often be more useful to your organisation than physically strong security personnel.
Of course, security guards come in all shapes and sizes, and some will resemble the physical behemoths you see in the movies. When you partner with a security provider, make sure they can provide you with a range of security personnel to suit your requirements.
2. Most Businesses Can’t Afford Security Guards
Security services might seem like something that’s reserved for the rich and famous, but that’s not the case at all. The best security companies will be able to provide tailored packages that meet your security requirements and match your budget.
Look for a security provider who offers a comprehensive suite of solutions that you can customise to suit your needs.
3. Security Guards Have No Formal Training
While security guards don’t undergo exactly the same training as police, there are still strict entry requirements that must be met. Some ex-police officers also go on to work as security guards, and these individuals can be a huge asset to your business.
Security guards usually have to complete a qualification such as a Certificate II in Security Operations or a Certificate III in Security Operations. Pre-employment requirements may also include medical exams, police checks, and a thorough interview process.
Each security guard will also need to meet the relevant licensing requirements in their State or Territory. Additional certifications can include First Aid, Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificates, and a valid Driver’s Licence.
As well as individuals, security companies and contractors also need to meet specific requirements in the State or Territory they operate.
4. Security Guards Don’t Know How to Deal with the General Public
Security guards who are customer-facing or client-facing are trained to be courteous, respectful, and clear in their communication.
Security guards also need to know when to be firm with members of the public and how to deal with a disruptive presence. The best security guards are also trained in conflict resolution and know exactly how to communicate with members of the public in any given situation.
5. All Security Guards Are Men
There’s no denying that security is a traditionally male-dominated industry. However, there are more female security guards today than ever before, and steps are being taken to promote equality.
Being a security guard requires a varied skill set, making it a profession that both men and women can excel in!
6. Most Security Guards Are Lazy and Don’t Do Much
We’ve all seen pictures of the typical lazy security guard. They’re sitting with their chair reclined and their feet up on a desk. They are either watching TV, reading a magazine, or even fast asleep! Right when they’re needed most, the lazy security guard is caught unaware, allowing a variety of shenanigans to occur.
While this is a great set-up for a TV show or movie, it’s far from the reality of the situation. Even when it looks like nothing is happening on-site, the best security guards will be actively patrolling in a vehicle or on foot.
Modern security companies make it easy for businesses to monitor their security guards in real-time, so if there are lazy security guards out there, they won’t last long!
7. In Low-Risk Settings, Security Guards Are Unnecessary
This misconception is tied to the idea that security guards are only working when there is an active security concern. As we mentioned above, security guards are actively patrolling even when things appear quiet.
As well as this, security guards can assist with first aid, manual labor, customer service, and more. Of course, security breaches can even occur in low-risk settings, so it pays to have security guards who can respond immediately before the police get to the scene.
8. Security Is All About Manpower
Like in many professions, a large portion of security guard work is now driven by technology. Rather than being purely physical, today’s security guards utilise dashcams, body cameras, radio systems, monitoring software, patrol vehicles, and much more. Security guards also work in tandem with alarm and CCTV systems that are supplied and installed by the security company itself.
Modern security breaches are becoming more and more sophisticated, and your security guards will use advanced security software to stop these breaches in their tracks!
9. Security Guards Can’t Stop Crimes from Occurring
“By the time a security guard gets involved, the crime or disruption is already happening. The best they can do is minimise the damage.”
This misconception seriously underestimates the role of prevention and deterrence in security services. Prevention is actually the main focus of security services, and this can be achieved in many ways.
The mere presence of security guards and security devices can deter criminal activity and misbehaviour. Security guards can also recognise patterns of behaviour and take proactive steps to prevent attempted security breaches before they happen.
10. Security Guards Aren’t Suitable for My Business
We can’t tell you that security guards are required for every type of business activity, but the best security firms will have most industries covered.
As well as mobile patrols and standard security services, security guards can assist you with crowd control, event security, bodyguard services, VIP protection, asset protection, CCTV and alarm installation, and more.
If your business needs any security services for any reason, a team of security guards can help you.
Do You Need Security Guards for Your Organisation?
Now that you know the truth about security guards, you can make an informed decision about your business’s needs. Rest assured that when you partner with a quality security provider, your security guards will provide value-adding solutions that effectively protect your organisation!