Become a Security Guard

How to become a security guard is a brief overview about work in the security industry. Security is everywhere you go, there is somebody guarding the front desk at the bank, the parking lot at a church might have a security guard patrolling it. Security guards are not like bouncers at a club, to become a security guard you need specialized skills and the will to take responsibility. Many people who go into law enforcement can use the experience of being a security guard as a bridge to help them further their career.

In order to become a security guard there are a few things you will need. First you will need to obtain a guard card. This qualification can be given through classes by an employer or by a private company. Each class to obtain this card will vary depending on the employer's needs of security. Since security can be as simple as patrolling an area where there is not a lot of activity up to carrying a weapon, it depends on what type of security you will be doing.

There is sometimes a fitness test that you need to take along with a written test. Those who pass can be given their guard card and begin work immediately. If you have any facial hair or long hair you may be required to cut it or shave it off. Security personnel are generally clean shaven and neat so that if an instance did arise a potential threat could be neutralized by the guard.

To become a security guard you might need a high school diploma and a valid driver's license, a college degree is not necessary but having one will not over qualify you for a position. Those who work security take their job seriously and can make a career out of it by working security for many functions.

Security guards have very flexible schedules and can work different types of environments; if you work freelance then you could work a variety of jobs and expand your client base considerably. Since security has tightened in the post 9/11 era there are more jobs available than ever before, people want to feel safe and the presence of a uniformed security guard gives your business piece of mind.

If you want to become a security guard and you are not sure what to expect you can always ask the person who works security what its like. They will be honest with you and you can start to understand what it takes and if you have the drive to join their ranks. Some security guards are paid minimum wage while those that carry weapons are paid much higher because of the risks involved.

Security is not designed to play on anybody fears but to give those who need a little extra help that right. Security guards can work full time or part time, people looking for a second job might find that working security can give them a sense of pride about their work. Many companies will train you so you have the skills they need to protect their business.

About the Author: After being in small businesses, including security, for over 13 years Tammy Love is now sharing her knowledge and helping others to change careers or start a small business through her websites.

Local Security Guard.com provides a free ebook called Becoming a Security Guard - it is a really good introduction to the industry if you are thinking about becoming a security guard or starting a local security business.