It’s no mean task to build a reputable career in security. It requires extensive training, experience, and dedication to the security of those around you. On the other hand, being an important industry, there’s always a demand for more security professionals in the US.
Common Security Guard Jobs
Security guards are employed at private businesses, buildings, construction sites, apartments, condo, public venues such as movie theatres, malls, clubs, and government buildings.
Common security guard jobs include armed and unarmed guards, patrol or protection officers, security escorts, and personal bodyguards. Specialized security jobs such as security consultant, security analyst, and security engineer require additional qualifications and training.
Most security guards and security officers are employed by private companies that are hired by clients who seek protection. These companies also provide training to new entrants in the industry. The training requirements and regulations for security vary for each state in the US.
If you’re looking to kickstart your career as a security guard in South Florida, we’ve put together some tips that’ll help you establish yourself as a successful security professional.
Work on your skills.
To find work in the changing security landscape, some skills are prerequisite to starting a security guard career. Some of these skills are developed through training, while others are gained through real job experience. Some of the key skills needed to be a security professional include:
- Customer service: Security guards work very closely with people and need to have the right people skills to help maintain calm under stressful situations. Often security guards are representative of the client’s business and need to perform tasks such as visitor assistance, employee guidance and maintaining good relationships with people of the community.
- Technology: Security systems are changing greatly in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. As a result, security professionals constantly need to upskill and adapt to changing technology. The use of computers, access technologies and multi-factor authentication systems are becoming increasingly routine in security services.
- Communication: Security officers working as front desk and concierge staff need to interact regularly with building staff, visitors, residents and groups. Guards need to have impeccable communication and people skills to interact with people and effectively provide information and directions in routine and high-pressure situations.
Get the right training and certifications.
The first step to a successful career as a security guard in the USA is to get the appropriate certifications from a certified trainer. Getting into security is no mean task, and it’s important that you take this first step seriously. It is a mandatory legal requirement for individuals working in the private security industry in the USA to undergo a structured training programme and obtain a professional certification.
Find the right opportunity.
Most security companies and investigative agencies always have requirements for new people. These companies also provide on-the-job training to entry-level employees. Companies such as Bryant Security in Miami provide specialized security training and valuable job experience to their staff.
Starting in a reputed security organization helps you gain the right skills, experience and network and can go a long way in opening up exciting future opportunities for you.
Be a self-starter.
When you are gaining ground in a new industry, it is important to take the initiative and carry out research to come up with solutions to problems. This will help you get recognition as a forward-thinking employee and enable you to stand out from the crowd. This will also help you move ahead in the organization quickly.
Keep learning.
Security technology is ever-changing. Especially in the post-pandemic world, security requirements and protocols have changed drastically for businesses. As a security professional, you must gain new skills as you go and keep learning on the job. Along with physical security requirements, there are several technologies to control access, occupancy, and monitoring tools such as video surveillance that have become increasingly commonplace now.
Conclusion
Security is an exciting industry to work in today. Your security job can be an opportunity to help people have a reliable career or a stepping stone to future pursuits. Becoming a security officer can help you be physically active and put you on the road to success.
