There are many reasons why one would want to become a security guard. There is the potential for better pay, more benefits, and less stress than other jobs, as well as an opportunity to help people who need it. However, before you take this job on there are some things that should be considered such as: What requirements are there? What does the typical day look like? What hours will I work? Can I work part-time? Can I start working without experience in law enforcement or security? Will my friends and family be okay with me working nights and weekends?
These questions might seem like common sense but we forget how important they really are when we’re excited about a new opportunity and just want to jump right in. This article will discuss these topics and more so that you can make an informed decision on whether becoming a security guard is the right career choice for you.
What is a Security Guard?
Security guards are responsible for ensuring that customers and employees feel safe, secure, and respected at their place of business. To become a security guard in the UK you must be employed by a company or organization that is registered to provide personal protection services (PPP) and hold the SIA license. Security guards are responsible for providing security and law enforcement to their clients. They monitor the premises, handle disturbances, investigate suspicious activities on site, and enforce all rules of conduct.
What are the typical duties of a security guard ?
A security guard’s responsibilities vary depending on their specialization and jurisdiction but typically include patrolling assigned areas of responsibility, investigating suspicious activity, preventing crime by acting as a deterrent, monitoring CCTV feeds and emergency alarms. Security guards are an important part of any organisation, protecting the people on the premises and their property. They also provide a valuable service by deterring crime through their presence. Security guards work in all sorts of organisations, from nightclubs to airports to construction sites. There are many different careers within security guarding including crowd control, manned guarding or providing personal protection for celebrities and VIP’s.
How do I become a security guard?
There are no strict requirements for becoming a security guard in the UK; however there are some prerequisites required. You must have reached 18 years old and be able to work legally within the country, speak English fluently, have a first aid qualification, pass any medical examinations required by your employer, obtain all necessary authorizations from law enforcement agencies such as licenses or certifications (SIA), and complete any training courses mandated by federal law.
Earning a certificate in security guarding is an excellent way to enter this field because it will provide you with the knowledge needed to succeed as a security guard. The most necessary license needed to work as a private security guard in the UK is the SIA license (see below).
How do I get SIA qualified ?
Obtaining an SIA Security Guard Licence may appear difficult, but it is actually pretty simple! All you have to do is follow the easy instructions below.
The first step is to attend the security guard course by an approved training provider, which is three days long. It consists of three parts; working in the private security industry, security guarding and lastly conflict management. On the final day of the course, you are assessed by 3 multiple choice exams. Once you have successfully passed the 3 multiple choice exams you can complete the license application on the SIA website.
The cost of starting the license application is £190. Once your application has been received the SIA will usually respond within 25 working days. Once they have responded you will need to complete the identification checks – such as your photo ID, which will verify your identity. The Post Office is the most convenient location for this. You can also have someone who is not connected to you, sign the back of your photo ID if they hold a British passport. You can then submit an application and wait for the SIA to conduct identification and criminal history checks. If you have spent more than 6 months in another country, you may also be asked to produce some documentation explaining your reasons for being outside the UK. With all these prerequisites completed your 3-year license will be sent in the mail. You are now ready to start applying for security guard jobs.
What about the Door Supervisor License ?
The SIA Security Guard Licence is comparable to the SIA Door Supervisor Licence, however the key distinction is where you may work and what licensable activities you can do. You can’t operate on licensed establishments where alcohol is served if you have a Security Guard License (SIA). On the other hand Due to the addition of a physical intervention section to the Door Supervisor Course you are not restricted in this way and this can provide you with more job options. The process for obtaining the Door Supervisor License is similar to the SIA license with the need to pass a multiple choice exam after completing the course. Consider acquiring both licenses to offer yourself the greatest opportunity in your profession and stand out amongst other looking to for employment in the security sector.
How much can I earn as a security guard?
Becoming a security guard in the UK is an excellent opportunity for those looking to work part-time, full-time, or those seeking supplementary income. The pay varies with location but can be anywhere from £8-£12 per hour. Typically the bigger cities such as London, Manchester and Birmingham will pay higher salaries.
On average the total remuneration for an entry level security guard with less than three years of experience is £14,500 gross per year. The typical total remuneration for a mid-career security guard with 4-9 years of experience is £21,300, while an experienced security guard with 10-20 years of experience can earn up to £24,600.
It’s important to note that there are other ways to earn more later in your career, for example with time and experience, you might advance to supervisor, then senior security officer, or chief security officer. You could also move into security management or training with further credentials such as a Level 3 Security first line manager. There is also the possibility to start your own security firm.
Are security guards in demand?
Security guards are a vital part of any workforce, and the security industry is always in high demand. As a result, there are many opportunities for security guards to find a job that suits their needs and interests. While the job outlook is positive it’s important to note that getting your first job as a security guard will require some commitment. Employers will look for those that have certain qualifications or experience. Even experience in customer service or retail can be advantageous to help you stand out against the competition.
How to secure your first job as a security guard?
Getting an opportunity to work as a security guard without experience can be tough for anybody. There are many people looking to get the same position, and it can be competitive depending on your location.
So how do you stand out? First thing first, make sure you have the right qualifications. You will first need to pass an eligibility test and then apply for a certificate of approval from the Security Industry Authority (SIA). In addition, make sure to mention any previous work experience which involves customer service. A big part of the job entails greeting visitors with a smile and ensuring you can assist them. You’ll need a positive and calm communication style in order to succeed at this position so employees are always on the lookout for guards with additional soft skills.
What are the benefits of becoming a security guard?
They have the ability to work full-time or part-time, so it’s easy for someone with other commitments to still be able to make money as a security guard. There are also many benefits associated with this profession: flexible hours, the opportunity for advancement, and job satisfaction – just some examples! The outlook for employment is also positive – becoming a security guard is one of the fastest-growing professions in the world. The number of jobs has increased by 20% since 2016.
The Right profession for you
The security industry is a growing sector, and as such there are plenty of opportunities to work in this field. Becoming a security guard offers you the opportunity to work in an exciting and diverse environment that is always changing. You can choose from many different types of jobs, such as working for private firms or for VIP individuals. With so much variety available, there’s something for everyone!
There are also many benefits to becoming a security guard in the UK, with an increasing need for trained professionals. The demand for qualified guards continues to grow and this industry offers great opportunities. In addition to having a fulfilling career with many prospects ahead, working as a professional security guard could also pave the way for other exciting employment opportunities down the line such as working in security management. If you’re looking at careers that will provide stability with plenty of room for growth within your profession, consider opting in to one of the above mentioned training programs.
Contact Titan Security Europe for more info
This blog post has given you some of the most important information that can help guide your decision to becoming a professional security guard. Our team is always available to answer any questions and provide more helpful advice on our website or at one of our offices across England. We hope we have convinced you why becoming a professional security guard might be the right choice for you!