Security guards are responsible for the security and safety of a property, building, or area. They are typically seen as the first line of defence against potential threats such as theft, violence, and other criminal activities.
However, it is not easy to find an efficient security guard. To be efficient in this line of work, one must possess certain skills.
To further help you out, here are the 10 top skills of an expert security officer. Looking for these skills in your prospective security personnel could help you out a great deal.
Table of Contents
1. Observation Skills:
The capacity to concentrate on the specifics of work is what we mean by observational skills. The job of a security guard requires you to remember actions, maintain focus, and provide accurate reports by paying attention to detail and being proactive.
This quality of attention to detail helps in observing their surroundings and identifying potential threats. It also includes being able to identify suspicious behaviour and individuals.
2. Communication Skills:
A security guard must communicate effectively with co-workers, management, clients, and the general public. Being able to communicate with such diverse groups of people is a truly remarkable skill every security guard must have. You could even call it a kind of teamwork.
Also, communication does not just mean giving clear and concise instructions, but it also includes the ability to be a good listener.
3. Report Writing Skills:
Consider it as an extension of the above point. The ability to properly write reports is also a skill security guards need.
A security guard must be able to write clear and concise reports detailing any incidents that occur during their shift. It is important for documentation purposes as well as for communicating with other members of the security team.
For example, this skill comes in handy when you have to write police statements for an unfortunate incident at the workplace.
4. Conflict Resolution Skills:
Residential or commercial conflicts may arise at any moment. Sometimes, these conflicts quickly escalate and turn into accidents. So, security guards need to be quick during those times.
A security guard must be able to resolve conflicts quickly and efficiently. It includes being able to diffuse tense situations before they escalate into violence.
5. First Aid Skills:
One can never overlook this skill in a security guard.
A security guard must be certified in first aid and CPR in case of an emergency. It could include anything from a minor injury to a heart attack. In some situations, knowing how to administer first aid might mean the difference between life and death.
6. Emergency Response Skills:
A security guard must be able to respond quickly and efficiently in the event of an emergency. It includes being aware of evacuation procedures and knowing how to contact the proper authorities in case of an emergency.
7. Patrol Skills:
A security guard must be proficient in patrol techniques to effectively secure their assigned area. It includes knowing how to conduct foot patrols as well as vehicle patrols.
If a security guard lacks skills in patrolling, it can be a problem.
8. Physical Fitness:
Physical fitness is the ability to do daily duties with peak effectiveness, strength, and endurance. A security guard’s job often requires them to stand for long periods or chase after potential threats.
As such, it is important for security guards to maintain a high level of physical fitness so they can perform their duties effectively. Being physically healthy makes it easier to undertake the demanding job of a security guard.
For instance, you might spend the majority of your time wandering or standing around structures or locations. Or, you would have to carry big objects or pursue someone you saw breaking the law.
These things can be extremely taxing on the security guards if they are not physically fit.
9. Weaponry Skills:
In some cases, a security guard’s job will need them to carry a weapon such as a baton or pepper spray. Improper use of these weapons could harm not only others but the guards as well.
So, it is important for a security guard to receive proper training in how to use these weapons before carrying them on duty.
10. Technological Skills:
Your ability to use various technologies to execute tasks can be described as your technical skills.
With the advent of new technology, many security guards now have access to things like CCTV cameras and two-way radios. It is important for security guards to receive proper training in how to use this technology.
Some areas that demand technical literacy are:
- Employing electronic surveillance equipment to keep an eye on alarm systems and activities.
- Using word processing programmes to create and submit electronic incident reports.
- Access client data from databases.
- Using x-ray scanners to find prohibited items while performing the job.
So, increasing your technical proficiency can improve the way you protect people and property.
Conclusion
Security guards play an important role in keeping people safe from potential threats. To be an effective security guard, one must possess a certain set of skills. The 10 skills listed above are essential for being an efficient security guard.
If you are looking for a skilled security guard, you can look at Aligned Security Force. Be it for residential or commercial security, Aligned security will be able to provide suitable security guards in Geelong.
We hope this quick listicle gave you an insight into a security guard’s efficiency.
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