Chapter 7.10: The skills needed to be a property security guard: Ability to handle conflict and high-stress situations.
Working as a security guard is a task that requires a series of specific skills and competencies. Asset security is a profession that involves the protection of people, property and information, and as such, requires a specific set of skills to deal with a variety of potentially dangerous and stressful situations. In this chapter, we'll explore some of the most important skills a property security guard needs to possess.
First and foremost, one of the most important skills for a property security guard is the ability to handle conflict. This can include situations where it is necessary to intervene in a dispute between two parties, or situations where the security guard needs to remain calm and in control in a potentially dangerous situation. Dealing with conflict requires a combination of communication skills, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
Communication skills are critical to dealing with conflict effectively. A security guard needs to be able to communicate clearly and assertively, both to defuse a potentially dangerous situation and to ensure that all parties involved understand what is going on and what is expected of them. This can include the ability to give clear and concise instructions, the ability to listen and understand other people's concerns and points of view, and the ability to express your own opinions and feelings in a way that is respectful and non-confrontational.
Problem-solving skills are another important skill for dealing with conflict. This involves the ability to identify the root cause of a problem, consider several possible solutions and choose the best option. This may require an in-depth understanding of safety-related laws and regulations, as well as the ability to think creatively and adapt to ever-changing situations.
Keeping calm under pressure is perhaps the most important skill for dealing with conflict. In a conflict situation, it is essential for the security guard to remain calm and focused, regardless of how stressful or dangerous the situation may be. This requires a great deal of self-control and the ability to manage your own emotions in high-stress situations.
In addition to the ability to handle conflict, a property security guard also needs to be able to handle high-stress situations. This can include situations where there is an immediate threat to the safety of a person or property, or situations where security needs to make quick and possibly critical decisions. Dealing with high-stress situations requires a combination of physical and mental toughness, quick decision-making skills, and the ability to remain calm and in control under pressure.
In short, working as a security guard requires a specific set of skills to deal with conflict and high-stress situations. These skills include the ability to communicate effectively, problem solve, remain calm under pressure, and make quick and effective decisions in high-stress situations. By developing and honing these skills, a security guard can become more effective in their work and better equipped to protect the people, property and information they are responsible for.
