It goes without saying that movies and TV shows can often influence the way we think or view the world and the Security industry is certainly no exception. If you believe what you see in movies, you might think that security jobs are all high-flying and dangerous. Or on the other side of the stereotype; you may perceive security officers as being lazy, unskilled, or that the work is boring. The reality is the opposite. Security guards play an essential role in ensuring the safety of the people and properties they protect. Their work is extremely important and requires a diverse range of qualities. And so, It is easy to have misconceptions and misunderstandings about guards. Therefore, we decided to break some of them here!
Security Guards are Uneducated and Untrained
Many people have a belief that anyone can be hired to be a security guard. The security guards are uneducated and random people who look for security jobs. The truth is the complete opposite of this belief. Security guards have to be licensed and to go through a certification and training program to legally operate. Their extensive training allows them to deal with a variety of situations and scenarios, which is why, to minimize a threat before it becomes an issue, It is paramount that the training provider, such as Severity, takes their training and compliance processes seriously. On a side note, although guards are not police officers, they are trained to understand local laws and ordinances to keep a check on the crimes.
Security Guards should be Muscular and Big
Contrary to the common myth, security guards don’t have to look like a professional strongman. Indeed, their physical fitness is a valuable quality. However, it doesn’t mean their muscles have to be visible. The truth is, a well-built guard can surely deter criminals, but some other skills and qualities are more important and can serve equally well in a dangerous situation.
Observational skills, the ability to stay focused and alert, or good communication skills help security guards in their main tasks, which are de-escalating conflicts and preventing crime.
What’s more, big and muscular guards don’t fit every workplace. Some companies look for regular size guys who can melt into the crowd, stay invisible, and not attract attention. It’s especially important for businesses from the corporate environment, the hospitality industry, or for event organizers. With that being said, It is crucial to highlight that training and experience are far more important and valuable than any other thing.
Security Guards Are Not Good with the Public
The outdated image of the rude security guard is no longer relevant to today’s modern security scene. Today’s security guards aren’t just trained to respond to security threats. They’re also trained to work the “front of the house,” and to interact positively with customers, employees, and visitors.
Security Guards Don’t Do Anything
Movies and television shows have given the impression that many security guards sit in a booth reading magazines and watching TV. They depict the job as relatively dull and uneventful. When something does happen, the unwitting guards are caught unaware, and shenanigans ensue. However, this could not be farther from the truth. Security guards are often the first line of defense before police arrive on the scene. Guards have many jobs to do during their shifts, and so they must stay alert and vigilant.
One Single Type of Security Guards
Some people feel that there is only one type of security guards who stand outside the buildings and stores to protect the property. The fact is that different types of security guards specialize in distinct security and safety areas. For instance, the fire watch security guards are specially trained to tackle fire outbreaks and mishaps and manage the crowd in case of a fire. Likewise, the first aid CPR security guards can provide instant medical assistance to adults in the property they look after.
