The actual requirements of an examination prior to becoming a security guard vary widely by state and individual private security company; however, there are a number of steps interested candidates can take to adequately prepare themselves for a career in private security. A little extra effort can set the stage for quick promotions and a higher degree of recognition than attempting to enter the profession with the basic minimum requirements, which are usually a high school diploma and a clean criminal record.
Researching Local Requirements
The first step in preparing for a security guard exam is to contact the local police department via their non-emergency inquiry line or e-mail, if possible, to determine what, if any local requirements there are for obtaining a private security guard license. Some states may have locally designated requirements, such as community college course work as well as passing a licensing examination, while others may only require a simple criminal background check and the purchase of said security license, trusting training elements to the private security company itself.
Physical Fitness Training
Despite the common media portrayal of security guards as out of shape underachievers, as seen in such films as Observe and Report, and Paul Blart: Mall Cop, the actual day-to-day activities of private security officer are typically quite active, sometimes requiring a full eight hours of foot patrol duties and the occasional foot pursuit.
In order to be prepared for the realities of work as a private security officer, prospective candidates should prepare themselves with a moderate fitness training regimen. Having a sculpted body is not particularly important in the private security line of work; however, having a high degree of cardiovascular endurance can be a sought after asset and ultimately may make or break a prospective worker's bid on an assignment. After all, private security officers are ultimately there to protect property and the public, and someone in poor physical health due to lack of exercise may not be the best candidate for the job.
As a side note, ensuring that any assistive devices such as eyeglasses or hearing aids are in good working order before applying is also important, since in order to provide a detailed report on an event, a guard should be able to see and hear events clearly.
Observational Skill and Report Writing Practice
Part of the day-to-day duties of a security guard involves writing status reports and incident reports, some of which may be used in court proceedings and must therefore be accurate, legible and as detailed as possible. While the individual requirements vary greatly between clients, the general expectation is that a security officer keep a periodic activity log recording his day-to-day activities, such as patrols, interacting with the public, and making note of any complaints, inquiries or other events of note that he encounters.
To this end, practicing penmanship can be a helpful trait for entry-level private security personnel. A computer terminal is not always available for filing reports and a guard's pocket notebook often has to serve as the primary means of first recording. Brushing up on basic English language skills can be helpful to prospective recruits. Reading a few sample reports on trivial events they have observed in their day-to-day routine, including the basics such as who, what, where, and when, can also be useful.
An important part of writing reports for security documentation is to avoid making conjectural comments about why an event occurred. Without observing any actual evidence, conjecture can provide reasonable doubt in the eyes of the jury looking for potential bias.
Complementary Skill Training
Complementary skill training has a lot to do with the market that the potential security guard is trying to gain a foothold in. For example, in a city where there is a high immigrant population, having the capacity to speak fluent English as well as the languages commonly used by local immigrants can be seen as a positive skill. This allows the security officer to negotiate and defuse confrontations regardless of a language barrier.
Another complementary skill that is quite helpful for would-be security guards to have is a valid driver's license, since it opens up the potential for work as a mobile patrol officer or field supervisor. First aid training may make a candidate more attractive to clients, particularly those who have invested in advanced first aid equipment such as the automated external defibrillator, which requires a brief specialized training course to learn to use.
Some specialized private security companies may prefer candidates with experience wearing body armor and using either firearms or nonlethal weapons; however, this is not typically a prerequisite of the job. Some private security candidates may also opt to take advanced training programs on "close security" for work as VIP bodyguards, which can be a time-consuming though highly profitable sub specialization of security guard work.
Research Citations:
Leo, Thomas W. “Filling in the Blanks...” SecuritySolutions.com. September 1, 2003.
Top End Sports: Guidelines for Preparing for Testing
The National Rifle Association Headquarters: Education and Training
Ontario Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services: Security Guard Curriculum
Canadian Forces: Primary Reserve Physical Fitness Guide for Applicants to the Canadian Forces
Daniel Mueller - Dan Mueller is Canadian... how exotic! Give him money he'll write (arguably) interesting things for you! MuellerWordsmithing@gmail.com
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