Security has never been an easy industry. By its very nature, it mixes danger with responsibility and the ability to keep one’s composure when things get fractious. As a result, it requires a very specific set of skills from anyone wishing to become a security guard.
The role of the security guard is changing, too. Modern security is very different to what it was at the turn of the century, and the introduction of rapidly-changing technology, a growing population and a dynamic youth culture has forced the industry to up its game considerably.
In this post, we’d like to shed light on just what it takes to be a security guard in today’s society.
1. Drugs and alcohol
In truth, drugs and alcohol have been a regular challenge for security professionals for decades, but the rise of binge-drinking, late licensing hours and clubbing has made drugs and alcohol a consistent threat to keeping the peace.
Businesses, colleges and nightspots now have stringent anti-drug policies and don’t tolerate alcohol abuse, but it is still the security guard’s job to intervene when things get out of hand.
2. Cultural diversity
We live in a beautiful, vibrant society with an incredibly diverse population occupying most cities and towns. Unfortunately, the mix of different cultures, backgrounds and traditions still has a tendency to spark tension, prejudice and intolerance.
The security guard of today must therefore be able to help establish and maintain an environment that values diversity and is free from racism.
3. Spotting signs abuse
Physical and mental abuse manifests itself in many forms and the modern security guard has to be well equipped to spot early signs of abuse. In doing so, they are able to handle interpersonal abuse scenarios by intervening before things get out of hand.
It is without question one of the most challenging parts of a security professional’s job but can also be the most rewarding when genuine help is given to those who need it the most.
4. Gender discrimination
Just as with cultural divides, security guards must now be capable of promoting gender equality and acceptance. There is, quite rightly, a heightened sensitivity towards gender discrimination, and security professionals need to demonstrate the ability to be proactive in helping create an environment which is free from discrimination.
5. Workplace violence
Whether it be an office block or local convenience store, security guards are now regularly called in to deal with issues far removed from the typical pub brawls and nightclub scuffles. Tensions in the work place can often flare up way beyond the water cooler argument and dealing with skirmishes in such environments is a new skill security guards have had to adapt to in modern society.
Summary
A security guard is no longer ‘just’ the person who stands outside the bar entrance or sits among the empty desks of a commercial unit overnight – they are keepers of peace who need specific skills to deal with discrimination, domestic abuse and violence in the most unlikely of places.