How Do I Become a Security Officer?

If you are hoping to become a security officer, you should start by obtaining the appropriate mix of education and experience. Beyond that, security officers usually need to be able to pass a background check and drug test. In addition, a security officer should be comfortable working with a diverse population and be in good health.

Security guards are tasked with patrolling and protecting both property and people. They patrol department stores, shopping malls, and private residences to help deter criminal activity and report any problems, such as fire and vandalism. Guards routinely interact with local emergency service workers and the police.

While the educational standards for security guards aren’t quite as strict as those for police officers, security guards are still typically required to have a minimum of a high school education. This ensures that security professionals have the basic capacity to understand the sometimes complicated legal standards related to the profession. In addition, candidates may be required to tackle coursework and certification in first aid to become a security officer. Some locales require security guards to pass licensing tests before they can take a job, especially those that will be armed.

For security professionals, experience is often gained on the job. Training, which is sometimes part of a probationary period of employment, often includes material covering public relations, crime deterrence, and report compilation. If you hope to become a security officer, you should take part in this training and demonstrate a high degree of competency to continue employment.

Beyond the traditional requirements related to education and experience, you should also be able to pass a wide variety of character-based tests if you hope to become a security officer. This generally includes the successful completion of background, criminal record, and drug tests. All of these tests ensure that you are of good moral character, which is a necessary part of being a security guard.

Perhaps one of the most important requirements for a security guard is the need to communicate effectively. Solid communications skills help ensure that expectations are understood and that guards have the ability to report violations or infractions to the proper authorities. In addition, it is important that security professionals are able to communicate effectively with suspects.

If you hope to become a security officer, you should be both physically and mentally fit. The requirements of the position can include handling both emergency and physically demanding situations. These types of situations may often require you to be able to react quickly while making smart decisions.