We do not think of them when we are attending events, banks, or other occasions, but security guards are often on the outskirts looking in, watching, and protecting us. As unfortunate as it is, security is often necessary to the safety of patrons, customers, and employees. As security is so integral in today’s society, it is important that the right people are chosen for the job, those that possess qualities that make them great security guards.
What are the qualities great security guards possess?
There are two types, qualities that can be trained and qualities that are a part of personalities. Trained qualities include vigilant monitoring and the ability to handle tough situations and aggressive individuals with ease. Personality qualities include honesty, integrity, teamwork, and leadership abilities. We will discuss both types below.
Trained Qualities
Trained qualities are those that individuals may not possess prior to becoming a security guard. Instead, they learn these qualities through years of study and training. The best type of training is on-the-job training, and as such, security guards with more experience will have a higher affinity towards these skills. Below are a few of these skills.
- Vigilant Monitoring
Security guards must remain vigilant and observant at all times. The purpose of security is to protect, which means constantly being alert for signs of trouble. Great security guards can spot minor indicators of suspicious activity everyday people miss. This quality helps guards quickly identify and contain trouble before it gets out of control.
- Handle Tough Situations
No one is born with the knowledge on how to handle trespassers, threats, emergencies, or other difficult situations. This is a learned skill that requires much training with different types of situations. The ability to handle trouble and to protect without disrupting events or causing harm is what makes a great security guard.
- Keep a Low Profile
Security is meant to observe for danger, but they are not meant to be observed. Security should be easily identifiable if anyone needs them but should not make a scene or stand out unnecessarily. Great security knows how to blend in and not disrupt while also acting as an authority figure to dissuade troublemakers and make patrons feel comfortable and safe. This is a fine line and can take many years to perfect.
Personality Qualities
Regardless of training, some qualities are ingrained that make individuals more adept at being great security guards than others. These qualities are developed from childhood into adulthood and make a person who they are. Below is some of these personality qualities.
- Honesty and Integrity
All security guards must be honest and have integrity. Individuals that lie, steal, or cheat are individuals security should be on the lookout for not individuals that should be security. Great guards are those with standards, morals, ethics, and empathy.
- Teamwork
More often than not, events and businesses hire multiple security guards, so guards should be adept at working as part of a team. If guards cannot work together, it could lead to dangerous situations during emergencies. Teamwork is necessary.
- Leadership
Security should also have the capacity to be leaders. During emergencies or threats, guards need to take charge, calm the masses, and eliminate the threat. This requires leadership qualities as well as the ability to appear as an authority figure.
Combination Qualities
Combination qualities are those that involve both personality and training. Great security guards should already have an affinity for these qualities but then enhance them through training. It requires discipline and a willingness to learn to strengthen these qualities.
- Make Quick Judgement Calls
Some individuals make decisions quickly while others debate options and decide more slowly. Great security has a portion of both these qualities. Emergencies happen quickly, so decisions need to be made quickly. However, a quick decision also needs to be an efficient and effective decision. Great security guards are able to assess situations and different courses of action swiftly, decide on the best option, and then act on that decision. It is not just about making the quick call; it is about making the right call.
- Communication skills
Communication skills can be learned, but the best communicators have been doing it their entire lives. Effectively relaying information in as little time as possible is essential in an emergency. Great guards communicate calmly, professionally, and effectively.
- Customer Service
A security guard could be one of the best in the world, but a lack of customer service could mean a lack of a job. If guards are standoffish or rude, this does not instill confidence in their ability. Patrons will also feel they cannot rely on them during an emergency. A lack of customer service skills and general courtesy overshadows many other good qualities guards have, so it is important for guards to train this skill.
Conclusion
Security guards are often the only defense from chaos, so it is important to hire those that have the qualities needed for the task. Make sure to do research and interview a few candidates for the job. It may mean the success or failure of the event.
The security guards at Talon Security Guard Service in Troy exhibit these qualities and more. Through extended training, and experience in many areas of security, our security guard services are trusted and referred as our business continues to grow.
Our security solutions are full-service including, armed and unarmed security, permanent or temporary security as well as vehicle patrol spanning all types of businesses throughout Michigan. Call and speak to us about security for your event, business, and more, Free.