Here are some common misconceptions about security guards you shouldn’t believe anymore.
Most people think that only man can wear a security guard uniform. Then, some folks assume security guard as someone with a brooding face. Some even believe that they are not meant to behave well with people. Another popular belief is that a security guard is a lazy person being busy in eating all time.
If you are one of them, you are living with a misconception about security guards. Thanks to the TV shows, speculation and pure imagination that have sculpted such myths.
To help you know the security industry better, here we have busted some common myths about security guards.
It goes without saying that it’s a male-dominated industry. But that doesn’t mean there is no woman in this business. 23 percent of professionals in the security industry are woman, according to a survey by the U.S. Department of Labor. And the demand for a female security guard is on the rise in the USA. While the presence of a woman security guard makes people feel comfortable, most security firms hire them to bring a fresh approach to their lineup.
While big and muscular built of a guard can deter the troublemaker, the observational skill and a presence of mind are more important. Then, robust, intimidating-looking guard may not fit in the corporate environment. Retail sectors prefer a guard who can assist with the customers and have a “welcoming” appearance. The key is here that security guard’s skills and temperament is important than their built as well.
Security guards are your first line of security before any law enforcement agency. And handling the job of protecting someone is not a fun. A security guard is supposed to be skilled and organized to deal with a variety of situations. They are more than someone who stands with a baton in hand. They are trained in reporting, responding, and handling of clients. A security guard is a professional required to follow the set of codes and requirements. Each state requires a security guard to be trained, certified and licensed. Some states have mandated 40 hours of training for a guard to get a license.
Read Also: Why Security Service Providers Need Security Guard Management Software
The role of a security guard has gone beyond just offering protection. They are expected to report to the client. They may play an additional role to assist the customers at a grocery store. They may give directions to a lost individual. This way, a security guard has many duties to fulfill, no matter if they are official or not.
It is not only big-wigs or huge institutions that are flanked with security guards. A lot of security guard companies provide budget services. Even small business owners can hire security personnel. And the cost of having a security guard is not huge compared to the potential damage or break-ins.
If security guards are lazy, then no one would hire them for their protection. They are supposed to be active and alert. This misconception is hugely attributed to the TV shows where they are depicted as someone snoring on the stool or eating snacks in the monitor room. One more thing—their job is not boring. They are supposed to be vigilant as they never know when they have to prepare for something unpleasant. Moreover, security service providing companies have different ways to boost the productivity of their security guards.
So these are some common misconceptions about security guards. A professional security guard stays alert and executes skills to provide protection.