The Most Important Security Guard Skills

At Oatridge Security, we have developed a keen eye for the skills that make a successful security guard.  The best security guards meet a set of standards that many who desire the job do not possess.  We at Oatridge hire only the most competent and promising individuals for our security teams, making sure we offer only the best guards to our clients.  If you’re looking to become a security guard, or are considering hiring a security guard, it’s important to know what traits correlate to success.  It’s also imperative that your guard is properly licensed for your state; in Washington, even unarmed security guards require licensing.

Skills of A Good Security Guard or Security Officer

When considering potential security guards, there are a few personal skills that might indicate a good fit.  Given that these individuals will be the front-line against potential threats, choosing the right people can be a matter of great importance.  Both soft skills and hard skills are pertinent to performing security services.  Great security officers and guards are well-trained and respectful representatives of their client company.  The best security guards should meet a set of standards:

• Communication Skills.  A good security guard absolutely must have quality communication skills, as the ability to accurately, quickly, and reasonably relay information is inherent to the job.  Being capable of clear communication allows for fast action on the job; poor communication skills can lead to dangerous operational mishaps.
• Physical Fitness/Strength.  While most security jobs won’t require physical intervention, it is the security guard’s job to be able to stop potentially dangerous scenarios, by force if necessary.
• Rules Enforcement.  A quality security guard needs to be able to enforce rules, as well as follow them.  Even if a rule seems frivolous or easy to break, security guards understand that rules exist for a reason.
• Critical-Thinking Skills.  The ability to think critically is a necessary skill for security guards- in an emergency, a security guard will need to decide on an appropriate action quickly, and may not have time to ask for direction.  If decision-making skills are poor, they may not be a good fit.
• Vigilance and Observation.  Noticing small things is an important part of maintaining security; if a person tends to daydream and can’t stay focused on the situation, they may not notice slight-of-hand thefts or other small actions.
• Respectfulness.  While security guards are intended to act as a deterrent to wrong-doers, they need to also be helpful and kind.  A security guard may be responsible for helping a lost child or answering customer’s questions.
• Not Quick To Use Violence.  Unfortunately, many people who seek out security guard positions are people with power fantasies and violent impulses.  A quality security officer will instead seek to de-escalate a situation and behave calmly; violence and force should be considered a last resort.  If someone seems eager to use force, they should be turned away.

Choosing The Best Security Guard Services For You

When choosing security guards or hiring security services, be sure to look out for these skills and qualities.  The best options will always be guards with good training and a well-organized team.  If you’re looking for security guard services in Western Washington, Tacoma, or Seattle, consider hiring one of our teams at Oatridge Security.  We employ only the best guards on our teams, and we guarantee our service makes your event or business a safer place.  For more information, reach out to us over the phone or fill out our online contact form.

What Is The Difference Between a Security Guard and Security Officer for Seattle Businesses?

If you’re new to the world of security personnel, you may have heard the terms “security guard” and “security officer” and wondered- “are those the same thing?”  The answer is no!  The difference lies in their rank and role; a security guard is your on-the-ground front-line security personnel, and a security officer holds the supervisory, higher level, more managerial role.  Security guards generally report to security officers.

Job Roles of Security Guards and Security Officers

As mentioned, the guards are in a subordinate role to the officers, and both are necessary for an effective and well-maintained security team.  One role is responsible for the planning and oversight, while the other is responsible for the execution.  Knowing the differences between these two roles allows you to better manage your security team and recognize what roles need to be filled.  Depending on the scope and level of security, you may need a different team composition and ratio of guards to officers.  For example, a large venue may need more security guards than a small business.

Both pieces of a security team are often necessary for success.  Without a security officer, there is no planning or oversight for security operations.  This can lead to disorganization, communication errors, and poor area coverage.  There are equally large gaps in security if a team lacks security guards; without guards, on-the-ground response is often delayed or nonexistent, risk management factors such as direct interventions are not covered, and the deterring presence of a guard is lost.

To keep your company’s business assets safe, it’s important to understand the difference between these two roles.  This allows you to be better informed when hiring security services and choosing a setup that will best fit your company.  In the city of Seattle, many companies have become wary due to increased risks to public storefronts and events; the solution to this is to invest in good, well-trained, professional security staff.

Key Differences in Job Training and Personnel Services Between Security Guards and Security Officers

In terms of job training and personnel services, each role offers a different specialization.

Security guards are:

• managed by security officers.
• present and visible at events, venues, businesses, etc.
• intended to deter criminal activity.
• trained in risk management, awareness, and intervention.
• assigned to a specific post.
• keeping watch on-site.
• focused on small-scope and detail-oriented security duties.
• responsible for checking bags and IDs, watching for suspicious activity, and securing checkpoints.

Security officers are:

• responsible for managing guards.
• in a decision-making role.
• more experienced, may be former guards.
• trained in emergency response, operations, management, and oversight.
• keeping watch over the total operation and may be stationed in control rooms to oversee multiple cameras.
• focused on holistic, big-picture security.
• responsible for overall coverage, emergency response planning, and communications.

Choosing The Right Security Personnel For Your Business

Now that you have a better understanding of the key differences between guard and officer duties, you can make an informed decision on the proper security solutions for your business.  Here at Oatridge Security, we help businesses across Seattle and Western Washington with their security management.  If you’re looking for business security that offers top-notch, highly trained, and effective professionals, consider reaching out to us.

What Makes a Good Security Guard? 

Security guards play a pivotal role in safeguarding businesses, employees, and assets. To excel in this role, a security guard must possess a unique combination of skills, traits, and training. Being a good security guard requires more than just physical strength or the ability to enforce rules—it demands a high level of vigilance, effective communication, and a strong sense of responsibility. In this blog, we’ll explore the key attributes that distinguish an excellent security guard from the rest, providing insights for businesses seeking to enhance their security services.

From ensuring access control to responding swiftly to potential threats, security guards are on the front lines of maintaining safety and order. They must remain alert, prepared, and able to exercise good judgment, even in the most challenging circumstances. Furthermore, security guards represent the face of your business, so their conduct and professionalism directly impact your company’s reputation. This makes it crucial to hire guards who can communicate effectively, handle emergencies with confidence, and embody honesty and integrity.

In the following sections, we will delve into the essential qualities that make a security guard stand out. These insights will help you understand what to look for when hiring security officers and highlight the benefits of investing in a well-trained and reliable security team. By focusing on these critical traits, you can create a safer environment for your business and build a reputation for excellence in security services.

Top 10 Essential Qualities to Be a Good Security Guard

Security guards play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and protection of people and property. To excel in this role, security guards must possess a unique set of skills and qualities that enable them to handle various situations with ease and professionalism. In this article, we will explore the top 10 essential qualities that make a good security guard, providing valuable insights for anyone interested in the field or seeking security consulting services.

1. Alertness: A successful security guard must maintain a high level of alertness. Even during long periods of inactivity, it’s essential to stay vigilant, as dangerous situations can emerge suddenly. This means paying close attention to surroundings, noticing small details, and being ready to respond swiftly if something goes wrong. Alertness is vital for effective security services, ensuring the safety of people and property.
2. Preparedness: Preparedness is a key quality for security guards. They must have the right security gear and comfortable clothing to react quickly and effectively to threats. Additionally, they should be familiar with emergency protocols and understand the layout of the premises. Proper preparedness allows security guards to address emergencies efficiently and minimize risks.
3. Good Judgment: A crucial aspect of being a security guard is exercising good judgment. This involves evaluating situations, identifying subtle clues that may indicate potential threats, and making sound decisions. Security guards should avoid misinterpreting situations and refrain from unnecessary harassment. Good judgment ensures that security guards can address security concerns effectively while maintaining a positive relationship with the public.
4. Communication Skills: Security guards interact with various people, including staff, customers, and other stakeholders. Effective communication skills are essential for relaying instructions, providing assistance, and managing conflicts. Security guards should be able to communicate calmly, clearly, and efficiently, especially during emergencies. This skill is vital for establishing trust and ensuring a smooth flow of information.
5. Physical Fitness: Security guards need to be in good physical shape to protect people and property. Physical fitness enables them to respond quickly to emergencies, maintain a visible presence, and perform tasks that require strength and stamina. A physically fit security guard is better equipped to provide protection and ensure the safety of those under their watch.
6. Training: While experience plays a significant role in shaping a security guard’s skills, formal training is also crucial. Security guards should undergo comprehensive training programs that cover a wide range of scenarios and best practices. Training helps security guards understand different security threats, how to respond to them, and how to use security equipment effectively. Proper training ensures that security guards are well-prepared to handle any situation.
7. Assertiveness: Security guards must be assertive when dealing with escalating situations. This quality helps them maintain control and ensure that others respond appropriately. Assertiveness doesn’t mean aggression; instead, it involves clear communication, confidence, and the ability to enforce rules. An assertive security guard can defuse potentially dangerous situations and prevent further escalation.
8. Low Profile: While visibility is essential for deterring illegal activity, a good security guard should also maintain a low profile to avoid disrupting normal operations. This means not drawing unnecessary attention to themselves and respecting the privacy of staff and customers. By maintaining a low profile, security guards can effectively provide security without causing unnecessary disruptions.
9. Respect for Life: Security guards often encounter dangerous situations, and it’s crucial that they understand the value of every life. They should strive to protect everyone involved, using non-lethal methods whenever possible. Respect for life ensures that security guards act with compassion and empathy, focusing on resolving conflicts peacefully while ensuring the safety of everyone.
10. Honesty: Finally, honesty is a fundamental quality for security guards. They must be trustworthy and maintain integrity in all communications with employers, colleagues, staff, and customers. Honesty builds trust and fosters a positive working environment, enabling security guards to perform their duties effectively.

These 10 essential qualities are crucial for anyone looking to excel as a security guard or seeking security consulting services. By embodying these traits, security guards can provide effective protection and ensure the safety and security of people and property. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in security or want to improve your security services, focusing on these qualities can be a great place to start.

Why is Personal and Business Security Important?

Security is a critical element for any business. It safeguards company assets, employees, and customers, ensuring operations run smoothly and safely. Skilled security guards are the backbone of this security, providing the expertise and presence needed to protect against threats.

Businesses often house valuable assets and sensitive information within their premises. Security guards manage access control, ensuring only authorized personnel enter restricted areas. They also monitor people entering and exiting the building, checking IDs and keeping a record of who is on-site. This level of security reduces the risk of unauthorized access and helps prevent theft or vandalism.

Security guards must also respond swiftly to potential threats. While dangerous situations may be rare, it’s vital to have guards who can act quickly and decisively when needed. They are trained to spot suspicious behavior, address risks, and take action to prevent harm to people or property. This rapid response capability is a cornerstone of effective security.

A visible security presence can deter criminal activity, creating a safer environment for everyone. Security guards provide this deterrent through regular patrols and a watchful eye. With a competent security team in place, business owners and employees can enjoy peace of mind, knowing their workplace is secure, allowing them to focus on their core operations without worry.

What Can Go Wrong if the Security Guard is Not Qualified Enough?

Hiring unqualified security guards can have severe consequences for a business. Security guards are responsible for maintaining safety and order, so employing someone who lacks the necessary skills can lead to a cascade of problems. Let’s explore some of the key risks of hiring unsuitable security guards.

Legal Implications

Employing security guards who lack proper training, and certification, or who exhibit inappropriate behavior can expose your business to legal risks. If a security guard acts inappropriately or unlawfully, it can lead to complaints, legal claims, and even lawsuits. This can result in costly and time-consuming legal proceedings, damaging your company’s reputation and causing financial strain.

Damage to Brand Reputation

Security guards are the face of your business in many situations, especially when interacting with the public. If a security guard behaves unprofessionally or demonstrates a lack of competence, it reflects poorly on your company. This can lead to negative publicity, loss of customer trust, and ultimately, damage to your brand’s reputation. Rebuilding a tarnished brand image can be challenging and costly.

Threats to Health and Safety

An unqualified security guard can pose significant risks to health and safety. Whether through excessive aggression, lack of training, or a negligent attitude, a poorly chosen security guard can put people in danger. This not only jeopardizes the safety of employees and customers but also exposes the business to potential lawsuits and regulatory penalties.

Financial Loss

Inadequate security guards can result in financial loss for a business. If criminals are successful in breaching security, the financial implications can be substantial. Whether due to theft, vandalism, or other criminal activities, the losses can be considerable. When these incidents occur because of negligence, poor training, or sub-standard job performance by security guards, it becomes an unnecessary and painful financial burden.

Hiring unqualified security guards can have far-reaching consequences, from legal troubles to brand damage, threats to health and safety, and significant financial loss. To avoid these risks, businesses should prioritize hiring qualified and well-trained security guards who can effectively protect their assets, employees, and customers. Investing in a competent security team ensures a safer environment and helps maintain a positive brand reputation.

Contact for Professional and Trained Security Guard

Oatridge Security Group (OSG) is your reliable partner for comprehensive security services. Based in Tacoma, Washington, we are a HUBZone-certified business specializing in providing top-tier security solutions. Our diverse offerings include armed and unarmed security officers, vehicle and foot patrols, access control, consulting, and monitoring services. With over 20 years of experience and a senior management team boasting more than 100 years of combined security industry expertise, we have built a reputation as a trusted leader in the security services industry throughout the greater Northwest and beyond.

We are always ready to respond to your security needs, providing 24-hour communication, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Whether you require ongoing security or need assistance with a specific event, OSG is equipped to deliver. Our processes are designed to meet commercial and government requirements, ensuring compliance and reliability. Contact us today to discuss how OSG can help you achieve your security goals. We’re located at 2111 South 90th Street, Tacoma, WA 98444, and you can reach us by phone at (253) 461-1622. Our team looks forward to working with you to create a safer environment for your business, employees, and customers.