Security guard jobs are some of the most common types of roles you’ll see advertised when searching for entry-level positions in the security industry. These roles typically don’t require a lot of specialised training, which means there are plenty of opportunities to find an entry-level job as a security guard and start your career in the security sector.
However, not all entry-level security guard roles are created equal. Different companies will have different risks attached to working as security guards for them. Before accepting any job offer as a security guard, it’s important that you understand exactly what those risks are and what they mean for you personally. Here is what you need to know about being a security guard:
Confining Duties
Security guards have very specific job descriptions. While their core responsibilities may vary depending on the type of environment they’re tasked with protecting and the exact nature of the work they’re doing, the majority of security guards are responsible for performing only a handful of duties.
When applying for a security guard job, it’s important to understand exactly which duties you’ll be expected to perform, both inside and outside of work. Many security companies require their security guards: To perform duties like these on a daily basis, but many other companies don’t require their security guards to do any of these things.
Violence and Risk of Injury
Not all security guard jobs are created equal. The risk of violence is highest in two specific types of security guard jobs: If you’re applying for a security guard job that is likely to involve physical altercations with people, be sure to disclose any relevant medical conditions or injuries that you have in your application.
If you’re unable to engage in physical altercations with people for any reason, make sure to let your employer know about it during the hiring process. Security guards who work in correctional facilities often work alongside police officers, meaning they may be required to engage with violent individuals on a regular basis. This could involve restraining individuals and using force whenever necessary.
Having a physical confrontation with someone can have lasting consequences, both physically (injuries) and mentally (trauma). Make sure to bring up any concerns that you have about the potential for violence in a job during the hiring process.
Theft and Loss of Property
If you’re applying to work as a security guard at a bank or a jewellery store, you’re likely to face a high risk of theft from both employees and customers. If you’re applying to work as a store security guard, you’ll instead likely face a high risk of theft from other customers. If you’re applying for a job at a jewellery store or a bank, you’ll need to be prepared to be liable for any theft that occurs.
In some cases, you may be held personally accountable for any losses that occur through theft. Be sure to discuss this risk with your employer during the hiring process so you can be sure how it applies to you.
Reputation Damage and Loss of Business
If you’re applying to work as a security guard at a nightclub or a concert venue, you could face a risk of reputation damage and loss of business. If you’re applying to work as a security guard at a museum, you could instead face a risk of reputation damage and loss of business. If you’re working as a security guard at a nightclub or a concert venue, you may be required to turn away certain people based on their attire or the type of bag they’re carrying.
Doing so could damage the reputation of your employer. If you’re working as a security guard at a museum, you may be required to check bags for dangerous items. Doing so could damage the reputation of your employer.
Conclusion
The risks associated with being a security guard are numerous and varied. Before accepting any security guard job, make sure you understand exactly what the risks are and how they may affect you. If you’re applying for a security guard job, make sure to disclose any relevant medical conditions or injuries that you have in your application.
This will give you a chance to discuss any risks or concerns you may have about the job before accepting an offer.
