Security Guard Training

If you are thinking of a career in the security industry, working as a security officer is a good place to start. Others will use this experience as a stepping-stone to work with the police force or armed forces. On the other hand, some police and military officers eventually end up working in the security industry.

But if you are serious in your profession and in order to progress in your career in the security industry, it is a must that you take the necessary security guard training and be licensed. This will allow you better job opportunities and it will increase your market value as well. Admittedly, lack of experience or training will not deter you from being hired as an in-house security guard. But you will definitely have better offers if you have the training, license, and experience.

Due to increased threats stemming from petty criminals, organized crime, and terrorism, the demand for security guards is expected to increase. This means that the next few years will augur well for those seeking employment as security officers. If the demand will outpace supply, the price of the service will likely increase and this will put upward pressure on the salary of security personnel. In fact, there are areas wherein a shortage in security guards is already being experienced.

With the appropriate training and experience, one can be promoted to a senior security personnel position. Oftentimes, this will involve supervising security officers, setting up security detail, giving advice on security matters, etc. Needless to say, the pay is commensurately higher.

If you take a look at the job description of a security guard, you will find that it is not a bit daunting. In fact, a typical security officer function does not require advance formal education and experience. If the person is there only to "detect, deter, observe, and report", anyone who knows how to read and write, is physically fit, and has the proper attitude can apply for security guard jobs. Such being the case, why is training still important?

First, there is the legal aspect to consider. In many areas, you have to be licensed in order to work as a security guard, and training is required in order to obtain one. As previously mentioned, this may not be a prerequisite for an in-house security personnel or a club bouncer. But if you want better job opportunities or if you are aspiring for a senior position, you have to undergo training in order to be licensed.

There are sub-niches in the industry that require armed security personnel. Again this requires special training in the handling of firearms, weapon safety, self-defense, etc. And continuing training is required by some states. It is worth noting that the demand for armed guards by banks, casinos, government offices, etc. is also on the rise.

Training will also benefit the ordinary security officer. True, more than 95% of the time the job is routine, but what happens when an emergency occurs? You should know how to handle the situation, and this is what you learn in security guard training - first aid, crowd control, public relations, etc. Although you may acquire some of these skills through experience, it is best that you get formal training so that you are aware of the proper procedures in handling emergencies.