The demand for security guards is always present in our community. In every place we go, security is a top priority. Before deciding to dive into a career as a security guard, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons and the various aspects of this important profession.

Key Points:

• A security guard is a professional responsible for protecting assets, deterring criminal activity, and ensuring safety. Their tasks are patrolling properties, monitoring surveillance systems, responding to emergencies, and liaising with law enforcement agencies.

• General requirements to become a security guard are a high school diploma or its equivalent, a state-approved security guard training program, and a background check and fingerprinting.

• The length of security guard training programs varies, but typically, they run for around 8-16 hours initially but more training hours might be required depending on your state and ongoing education for license maintenance.

• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for security guards is $37,090 as of May 2023.

What is a Security Guard?

A security guard is a professional responsible for ensuring the safety and security of people, property, and assets. They may work in a variety of settings, such as office buildings, retail establishments, hospitals, airports, or residential complexes. Security guards are trained to monitor surveillance systems, patrol areas, enforce rules and regulations, and respond to emergencies.

Pros of being a Security Guard

1. Job Stability: With the increasing emphasis on safety and security, the demand for security guards is expected to grow steadily. This means that job opportunities in this field are likely to be abundant.

2. Flexibility: Security guard jobs often offer flexible schedules, including part-time and night shifts. This can be beneficial for individuals who are looking for a job that can accommodate their personal or educational commitments.

3. Entry-Level Opportunities: Becoming a security guard does not require an extensive educational background. Most positions only require a high school diploma or equivalent, making it accessible to individuals with varying levels of education.

4. Skill Development: Working as a security guard allows individuals to develop a wide range of skills, including communication, observation, problem-solving, and critical thinking. These skills can be valuable in various industries and can help individuals advance their careers in the future.

5. Networking Opportunities: Security guards often interact with people from different backgrounds, including law enforcement professionals, property owners, and tenants. This provides opportunities to build a professional network and potentially explore other career paths within the security industry.

Cons of being a Security Guard

1. High-Stress Situations: Security guards may be exposed to high-stress situations, including handling conflicts, dealing with aggressive individuals, or responding to emergencies. This can be mentally and emotionally challenging for some individuals.

2. Physical Demands: Depending on the job requirements, security guards may need to stand or walk for long periods, perform regular patrols, or handle physical tasks. This can be physically demanding, especially for individuals who are not accustomed to such activities.

3. Shift Work: Many security guard positions require working nights, weekends, and holidays. This can disrupt one's personal life and make it challenging to maintain a regular schedule.

4. Limited Career Growth: While there are opportunities for advancement within the security industry, the career growth options may be limited compared to other professions. Individuals may need to acquire additional certifications or education to move up the ladder.

5. Potential Risks: Security guards may face risks such as encountering dangerous individuals, working in high-crime areas, or being exposed to hazardous situations. It is essential to assess one's comfort level with these risks before pursuing a career in this field.

Essential Skills and Qualifications for pursuing a career as a Security Guard

While a high school diploma or equivalent is typically the minimum requirement for becoming a security guard, certain skills and qualifications can enhance one's chances of success in this field. Some of these include:

• Strong communication skills: Security guards need to effectively communicate with colleagues, clients, and the public.
• Physical fitness: The ability to handle physical tasks and remain alert for long periods is crucial.
• Good judgment and decision-making skills: Security guards often need to make quick decisions in high-pressure situations.
• Knowledge of emergency procedures: Understanding how to respond to emergencies, accidents, or incidents is essential.
• Familiarity with security systems and equipment: Security guards should be comfortable using surveillance systems, alarms, and other security equipment.

Career Outlook for Security Guard

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of security guards is projected to grow 2 percent from 2023 to 2033. The increasing need for security measures in various settings, including schools, hospitals, and public spaces, is expected to drive this demand. Additionally, the retirement of current security guards will also create job openings in the coming years.

Factors to consider before deciding on a career as a Security Guard

Before pursuing a career as a security guard, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Personal suitability: Assess whether you have the necessary skills, temperament, and physical fitness for the job.
• Work environment: Different settings may have different demands and risks. Consider whether you are comfortable working in specific environments.
• Training and certifications: Research the training and certifications required in your location to ensure you meet the necessary qualifications.
• Career goals: Determine whether a career as a security guard aligns with your long-term career goals and aspirations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth it to work in security?

Yes, working in security can be rewarding! It offers job stability, opportunities for growth, and the chance to help protect people and property.

What are the risks of being a security guard?

Security guards can face physical risks, such as confrontations or attacks. They may also work in challenging environments and during odd hours. However, proper training and safety measures can mitigate these risks.

What is the biggest challenge of a security guard?

One of the biggest challenges for security guards is maintaining vigilance and alertness during long shifts, which can be physically and mentally demanding. They also need to handle high-stress situations calmly and professionally.

What is the most a security guard can make? What state pays security guards the most?

As of May 2023, the highest 10% of security guards earned around $57,400. The state that pays the highest mean wage for security guards is the District of Columbia, at $54,830 per year, $26.36 per hour!

Final Thoughts

Becoming a security guard can be a rewarding career choice for individuals who are interested in ensuring the safety and security of others. While the job offers stability and flexibility, it also comes with certain challenges and risks. It is important to carefully consider the pros and cons, assess one's skills and qualifications, and evaluate personal suitability before making a decision. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a security guard, platforms like Dreambound can help you find the right training programs and courses to kick-start your journey. Dreambound is the largest platform for students to find vocational training programs, such as allied health or industrial trades. Their mission is to provide all the information students need to find the perfect class.

Navigate the certification journey in this field with Dreambound's detailed guides, each crafted for various places. For a deeper understanding of the process in different states, our additional guides may be able to help.

• How to Become a Security Guard in Alabama
• How to Become a Security Guard in Indiana
• How to Become a Security Guard in Nevada
• How to Become a Security Guard in Rhode Island
• How to Become a Security Guard in West Virginia

Contemplating a change in your career path? Dreambound has written many comprehensive guides to aid you in making well-informed decisions.

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