How to Train to Become the Perfect Security Guard

Interested in a security guard position? It’s a hard-working, high-risk noble job and if you are looking to join in, you need to take specific steps to ensure you are prepared to do your best. There are courses, including ministry-approved training courses, that could help you a long way. Apart from that, you need to ensure your eligibility for the position; you need to be older than 18 years and have a clean record.

So let’s take a look at some of the ways you can train as a security guard.

Understand The Job Details

“The best way to train to become the perfect security guard is to understand the pros and cons of the job. As a security guard, you need to be extremely responsible, reliable, and punctual. When sudden pressure and stress arise, you need to thrive under pressure and make sound decisions. This isn’t the job for those who are impulsive or those who crack under pressure.

“Knowing the policies and procedures of the organization you work for will give you an edge over others. Practice continuous learning and self-defense, never assume you know it all.”

Olivia Tan, Co-founder CocoFax

Keen Observation

“Keen observation is a key detail when training to be an excellent security guard. What is the person wearing? What is the gender, approximate weight, height? You also should note a person’s clothing and any unique qualities the person may have. Moreover, shoes are the easiest thing to identify a person as one may not easily change them in case of crime.” (Samuel Klein)

Understand The Guidelines

“Understand the guidelines of the entity you are working for. Assume you are preparing for a test as, most likely, a situation may arise in which such policies are handy.” (Samuel Klein)

Keep Fit

“More often, your job may require you to stay in a single position. If you get bored, pace about and ensure you stay alert. Do some strength and aerobic training during your free time. Staying fit ensures you are ready for any situation.” (Samuel Klein)

Self-Defense

“Practice self-defense as much as possible. The more you train, the better your fighting skills.” (Samuel Klein)

Do Not Assume

“Simply because you see someone daily doesn’t mean they are safe or aren’t doing a suspicious activity.” (Samuel Klein)

Rational Thinking

“Rational thinking is essential in determining potential causes of disarray and the extent of threat they pose.” (Samuel Klein)

Quick and Effective Communication

“Communicate excellently with your colleagues and employees. You should quickly and effectively notify your team and employer during a threat.”

Samuel Klein, Astorchocolate

Always be Learning

“When it comes to the security world, things are always changing and upgrading. It is important as a security guard that your training never stops. You can never get complacent as a security guard. Always look for opportunities to hone and update your skills. Research the latest in security tech. Look for workshops or classes in your area or online. There are plenty of fantastic resources available that will help you keep on top of your knowledge. 

“You need to be prepared for anything and everything. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions on the job. Show your employer, and the people you are guarding, that you are attentive and that you care. You want people to feel safe, and being attentive and detail-oriented is the perfect place to start.

“In the security industry, knowledge is power. You want to be on top of your knowledge so you can be one step ahead of any possible security issue. Also, make sure you study the specific protocols and manuals for the security company you work for. These protocols are the foundation of your job. If you don’t feel confident in your company knowledge, this could make you feel less confident in your position.”

Kristen Bolig, Founder at SecurityNerd

You will need to get CPR training along with first aid training. You may also be required to get certified in both. For these to be done even more conveniently for you, you can attend an online CPR course.  Emergency training, even if not officially required by the organization you apply to, can always add to your portfolio. Of course, it will always come in handy and make you more valuable as security personnel.

Of course, you will also want to get your security guard license, for which you will need to register first, pay a fee, then take a test.

Using these tips can help you train better for getting a position as a security guard. And of course, ultimately, nothing works better than practical training that comes from work experience. So get out there and be ready to learn practically in the field. Once you train as a security guard, you have a myriad of security positions open to you;  apart from working as a general security guard, you could try as a loss prevention employee, personal bodyguard or bouncer. You could find out what works best for you.