How to Be Private Security Guard - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Oct 4, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The increasing demand for private security guards is a direct result of growing crime and security issues around the world. As criminals become more organized and sophisticated in their methods, businesses and residential areas are increasingly at risk of theft, vandalism, and other criminal activities. Private security guards provide a visible presence to act as a deterrent to potential criminals and to observe suspicious activities.

They are also trained to handle incidents and to alert authorities if necessary. The presence of private security guards can reduce the fear of crime and create a safer environment for the public. they can provide peace of mind to employees and customers by ensuring that the premises are secure.

Steps How to Become

Research your state and local regulations regarding private security guards. Each state has its own regulations and requirements, which may include minimum age, physical fitness, and education requirements.
Obtain the necessary training and certification. Depending on the state, this may include completing a training course or passing an exam.
Complete any additional training courses required by your employer. This could include courses in self-defense, firearms safety, and first aid.
Apply for a private security guard license through your states licensing board. You may need to submit proof of your training and certification, along with a criminal background check.
Find a job as a private security guard. You may want to check with local security companies or private businesses that hire their own security guards.
Follow all of the laws and regulations set forth by your state and employer. Private security guards must abide by all laws and regulations to remain in good standing with both their employer and the state.

Being a private security guard requires staying up to date with all the latest security protocols and procedures. Developing a comprehensive knowledge of the latest security technology, such as cameras, alarms, access control systems, and other security systems is essential for keeping an efficient security guard service. Keeping up with the latest industry trends and best practices can help private security guards stay ahead of potential threats and ensure that their operations remain secure.

staying physically fit and attending regular training sessions to hone essential skills, such as communication and problem-solving, are key for a successful security guard. All of this contributes to creating an effective, efficient, and reliable private security guard service.

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Job Description

Monitor and patrol assigned areas to deter and detect suspicious activity
Respond to alarms, emergency situations and disturbances
Investigate suspicious activities and prepare reports
Conduct security checks of individuals entering the property
Provide traffic control in assigned area
Monitor CCTV systems and other surveillance equipment
Maintain order among crowds and respond to disputes
Escort personnel or valuable items as needed
Interrogate persons to determine purpose of visit
Notify law enforcement in cases of emergency or suspicious activity

Skills and Competencies to Have

Ability to observe and report potential security threats.
Knowledge of security protocols and procedures.
Excellent communication skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to remain calm and professional during emergency situations.
Knowledge of first aid and CPR.
Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
Ability to patrol an area to detect suspicious activity.
Ability to use security equipment, such as metal detectors, video cameras, and alarm systems.
Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Knowledge of applicable laws and regulations.
Ability to maintain composure in high-pressure situations.
Proficiency in physical security techniques.
Knowledge of self-defense techniques and firearms safety.
Excellent customer service skills.

Having a strong attention to detail is an essential skill for any private security guard. This skill allows them to observe their environment and detect any potential threats, ensuring that they can respond quickly and effectively. It is also important to be able to identify changes in behavior or body language that may indicate something suspicious.

With these skills, private security guards are better equipped to prevent or stop criminal activity, which can lead to fewer incidents of violence, theft, and property damage. having good communication skills is a key factor in being a successful private security guard. Being able to clearly and effectively communicate with clients, colleagues, and law enforcement will allow the guard to stay in control of any situation.

Finally, being physically fit is very important for a security guard, as they may need to run, climb, or quickly move around in order to apprehend suspects or protect the premises. With a combination of these skills, private security guards are able to keep their environments safe and secure.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in private security?
Describe a situation where you had to make a quick decision in a security role.
What do you think are the most important qualities of a successful private security guard?
How do you stay up to date on security trends and best practices?
How do you handle conflict or aggressive behavior from individuals entering a premises?
What strategies do you use to remain alert and vigilant while on duty?
How would you handle a situation where multiple individuals are attempting to gain access to a restricted area?
Are you comfortable working with firearms and other weapons?
Are you familiar with safety protocols and emergency response procedures?
What steps do you take to ensure the security of a facility or event?

Common Tools in Industry

Radio. A two-way communication device used to stay in contact with other security guards and police officers. (eg: walkie-talkie)
Flashlight. A portable light source used to illuminate dark areas. (eg: Maglite)
Surveillance Camera. A video camera used to monitor activity in a particular area. (eg: CCTV Camera)
Body Armor. Protective clothing designed to shield the wearer from physical harm. (eg: Bulletproof Vest)
Handgun. A small firearm that can be carried and used by a single person. (eg: Glock 19)
Baton. A short stick or club used for self-defense. (eg: ASP Baton)
First Aid Kit. A collection of medical supplies used to treat minor injuries. (eg: Red Cross First Aid Kit)
Pepper Spray. A chemical irritant used to temporarily incapacitate an attacker. (eg: Mace Pepper Spray)
Taser. An electrical device used to stun and incapacitate a person. (eg: Taser X26P)
Binoculars. A pair of lenses used to magnify distant objects. (eg: Bushnell Binoculars)

Professional Organizations to Know

International Foundation for Protection Officers (IFPO)
American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS)
National Association of Security Companies (NASCO)
Private Security Employers Association (PSEA)
Private Security International (PSI)
International Association of Professional Security Consultants (IAPSC)
International Security Management Association (ISMA)
American Society of Industrial Security International (ASIS Int'l)
National Organization of Security and Investigative Regulators (NOSIR)
National Association of Professional Process Servers (NAPPS)

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Common Important Terms

Security Guard Licensure. A process of obtaining a license to legally perform security guard duties in a specific jurisdiction.
Security Guard Training. Courses and training programs for security guards to learn the principles of security, defensive tactics, and related topics.
Security Guard Services. Services provided by a security guard, such as monitoring, surveillance, investigation, and control of access to a facility.
Security Patrol. The practice of patrolling an area in order to provide security and deter criminal activity.
Access Control. The process of allowing or preventing access to a facility or area by controlling who is allowed to enter and when.
Emergency Procedures. Procedures that must be followed in the event of an emergency, such as a fire or medical emergency.
Loss Prevention. The practice of reducing losses through prevention and detection of theft, fraud, and other criminal activity.
Risk Assessment. The process of assessing the potential risks and vulnerabilities associated with an organization or facility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Private Security Guard?

A Private Security Guard is an individual who is employed to protect people, property, or information from potential threats.

What qualifications are required to become a Private Security Guard?

To become a Private Security Guard, individuals typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent and be at least 18 years old. They may also need to complete a state-approved training program and pass a background check.

How much do Private Security Guards make?

Private Security Guards typically make between $9 and $16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the type of job.

What duties does a Private Security Guard perform?

Duties of a Private Security Guard may include patrolling assigned areas, responding to emergency situations, conducting investigations, writing reports, and monitoring CCTV systems.

What are the ethical responsibilities of a Private Security Guard?

Ethical responsibilities of a Private Security Guard include observing and enforcing laws, protecting the rights of individuals, remaining impartial and unbiased, avoiding conflicts of interest, and maintaining professional confidentiality.

Web Resources

Private Security Officer Training - Indian River State College irsc.edu
Private Security Officer Training | Certification | WSU Tech wsutech.edu
Online Security Guard Training- Program Overview | Penn Foster www.pennfoster.edu