7.8 The skills needed to be a security guard: Teamwork skills

Working as a security guard requires a variety of skills and competencies, many of which are acquired through training and hands-on experience. However, one of the most crucial skills a security guard must possess is the ability to work effectively in a team. Property security often involves coordinating with other team members and communicating effectively to ensure the security of a site or property.

First, the ability to work as a team is vital to property security because security is often a collective effort. In many cases, an individual security guard cannot effectively protect a property alone. It takes a group of security guards working together, each playing their own specific role, to ensure the complete security of a site. This may include patrolling different areas, monitoring security cameras, controlling access and responding to security incidents.

In addition, the ability to work in a team is also essential for effective communication. Security guards need to communicate clearly and efficiently with each other to share information about potential security threats or incidents. This can include relaying information about suspicious activity, coordinating responses to security incidents, and updating other team members on changing security conditions. Effective communication is crucial to ensuring that all team members are on the same page and can respond appropriately to any security situation.

The ability to work in a team is also important for conflict resolution. In some cases, security guards may have to deal with hostile or aggressive individuals. In these cases, it is important that security guards can work together to de-escalate the situation and ensure the safety of everyone involved. This may involve coordinating efforts to contain an aggressive individual, communicating with other team members to request assistance, or working together to evacuate others from the premises if necessary.

Last but not least, the ability to work in a team is fundamental for continuous professional development. Security guards can learn a lot from each other by sharing knowledge and experiences. Working as a team allows for learning and development opportunities that can enhance a security guard's skills and competencies, making him more effective in his role.

In summary, the ability to work as a team is an essential competency for any asset security. From coordinating security efforts to effective communication, conflict resolution and professional development, the ability to work effectively in a team is critical to success in a property security role. Therefore, anyone considering a career in property security should strive to develop and enhance their teamwork skills.