The process of becoming a security guard is different than it is in most other fields. There’s no school although there are required courses. There’s licensing before you can even begin to apply, and then there’s more training before you even get started proper. If you’re looking to get hired as a security guard by a security guard company, Bay Area, (or are just curious about the process) here’s a brief overview of what the process looks like.
Starting Out
The whole process starts with licensing yourself. Unlike most other jobs you can’t just become a security guard with the majority of security guard companies. You have to be licensed before you ever fill out the application. Without that license, there’s a very low possibility that you’ll even be considered.
Becoming licensed is something that is usually paid for out of pocket by the individual. Often this license is called the Guard Card. (You can find out how to get your Guard Card Here) Acquiring this license usually require the individual to attend an 8 hour course and complete an exam based on the course. This is 100% required and cannot be bypassed. If you want to carry a firearm there’s more licensing you’ll have to undergo.
Once you’ve completed the course you’ll have to send off your paperwork and testing documentation to get approved. Where these get sent off varies by state but any questions about this can be directed at the people company administering the test.
Getting hired
Most of the training beyond the initial licensing is on the job training. Often this at least another 32 hours of training. It entails working on the job and learning from other officers. Once you’ve hit this stage it’s likely you’ll become a security guard. You should still be attentive and always be learning. Just because you’ve come this far doesn’t mean that it’s a guarantee.
16 of your training hours will be in the first week. The training will vary from employer to employer but it will all be necessary. The next 16 hours will take place during the first 30 days of your employment.
On The Job
You made it. You’re a security guard now. That doesn’t mean you’re done learning now. There are several skills that you need to practice and hone in order to be good at your new job. The first and most important is to improve your communication skill, written and verbal.
Most of your job will be reports and talking with people. It’s important that you learn how to report activity or incidents in a professional and concise manner, as well as learning how to talk to people who are angry or in distress. This is a lifelong skill that will benefit you in every venture you pursue.
Becoming a security guard can be a very rewarding career that offers many exciting opportunities. Getting into the field though isn’t easy and often carries upfront expense. If you’re looking to work for a security guard company, Bay Area, or you’re looking to contract a few security guards for your business don’t hesitate. Contact a security company today.
Categorised in: Blog
April 4, 2019 5:08 pm