As a business owner, you know you can’t hire just anyone off the street! This is true for the security guards you hire to protect your guests and employees.
Your best bet for finding the best solution is to know which questions to ask. Here are some of the most important considerations when hiring a security guard that suits your organization’s needs.
- Background and experience.
A clean background and good experience means one thing when hiring a regular employee, but it means something different when looking for a security guard. The proper background and experience ensures that the person you are hiring knows, in an instant, what actions to take.
- They can respond honorably by instinct.
- They are able to spot suspicious behavior by body language.
- They can keep a situation from escalating.
Someone who has experience with your type of organization is also more familiar with common scenarios that may occur.
- Training
Among security companies, there are wildly differing requirements for security guard training. This is something you are welcome to ask about when interviewing for security guards. If you’re looking to protect large crowds of people – like a school, mall, or at a pool – you may want to ask about CPR-trained guards. Apex Security is one such company that requires CPR training of their security guards, but not all companies are up to their high standards. It pays to do your research.
It’s also important to ask whether security guards receive ongoing training. The world of security is changing rapidly. It’s important to hire security guards that are up-to-date on information as well as their certification.
- Physical Attributes
Think of the premises that you need protected. If it is frequented by women, you may want to consider a female security guard to put them at ease. Large schools or hospital campuses may have different needs than a nightclub, for example, which would require someone with a more intimidating physical build. All locations, of course, need a security guard who is healthy and able to perform all the required duties.
- Personality
As mentioned above, some locations may need more intimidating physical attributes, but don’t forget to keep personality in mind. A big guard at a nightclub also needs to be particularly level-headed, as people tend to get more rowdy. At a residential facility, school, or hospital, you’ll want people who are friendly and approachable. For a business, you’ll need to make sure your choice of security guard is exceptionally focused on customer service and is able to represent your business properly.
- Ask Plenty of Questions
With the needs of your organization in mind, you’ll be able to put together the questions you need to ask. Make sure you ask them! A good security company will listen carefully and provide you with the personnel that meet all of your needs.