The views of this article are the perspective of the author and may not be reflective of Confessions of the Professions.
Becoming a security guard will give you the chance to work in a field that helps make the world safer. If you desire to work in the security industry, you’ll want to know certain things about this career so that you’ll be more ready to pursue a position and make yourself a more valuable player among other security job applicants.
Test and Background Check Requirements
You’ll need to pass certain examinations to obtain the certifications that are required for security guards to work. The exams that you’ll take will depend on the specific type of security guard that you’re aiming to become. If you want to be an armed security guard, you’ll be required to undergo firearms training and pass tests to have the legal right to carry a gun on the job. A thorough background check will also be conducted before you’re hired to rule out a criminal history or other factors that might make you ineligible to work in this field.
You don’t have to have the body of an elite athlete to become a security guard, but you should still be mindful of your fitness and try to remain in relatively good shape for the job. Security work often involves foot patrols and standing at checkpoints for long periods, and being in good shape will help you manage the physical strain of the job better. You may even have to chase criminal trespassers on foot, so you’ll want to have the strength and endurance to handle the task.
Hours May Vary Drastically
A willingness to be flexible with your schedule will be key when you’re pursuing a career as a security officer. Security guards are needed to work around the clock, and you may be required to work at odd hours and change your schedule on a regular basis. There is a good chance that you will have to work some nights and weekends in your position. Some security professionals are also required to work on holidays.
Technology Skills are Helpful
Security officers nowadays often use certain pieces of technology to do their jobs more efficiently, and having some technical knowledge will be to your advantage. You can be more valuable in your position if you know how to use technologically advanced surveillance cameras to monitor the premises. You might also be required to wear a bodycam, and knowing how to use it properly and address any equipment malfunctions that might arise quickly may save you from getting into legal trouble. A technologically advanced communicating device may also be given to you so that you can make contact with other personnel easier.
Doing your homework to prepare for your security guard job hunt can give you better control of your destiny as you seek the right position. With the right preparations, you may be able to start working as a security guard sooner than you expect.
About the Author
Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her husky, Snowball.
