If you’ve ever considered working in the security sector, you’ve probably wondered what benefits and drawbacks come with this line of work. Before applying for a job as a security guard, private security contractor, mall security officer, bank guard, or any other security-related position, take into account the following factors.
If you’re considering a career in security, you should be aware of the advantages and disadvantages that come with it. You can decide whether the benefits of a positive job outlook and future opportunities outweigh the drawbacks of unpredictable work hours and safety hazards using the information provided above.
What’s the difference between a security guard and a security officer?
Security guards and officers are often mistaken for one another. Although a security guard and security officer perform similar tasks, security officers typically hold positions that are more managerial in nature. For instance, a security officer may be in charge of a group of ten security guards. They plan shifts, distribute training materials, assess output, and give the team support and experience. Making the right career decision can be aided by understanding this crucial role distinction. Certain educational qualifications or several years of experience may be needed for managerial positions.
Pros and cons of being a security guard
Being a security guard comes with many pros and cons. Understanding the position’s advantages and disadvantages is crucial for properly evaluating the career path and developing a balanced, precise understanding of your role as a security guard. Here are 10 benefits and drawbacks of working as a security guard:
Pros
Here are five pros of being a security guard:
Security officers frequently have the choice to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, or even regular business hours. You might work a full day shift or several shorter shifts throughout the day, depending on the demands of the job. Since many security personnel work holidays, there are more chances to increase one’s income and experience If you want a more accommodating schedule so you can have more personal time, think about looking for a job as a security guard.
Security officers must spend a lot of time on their feet because they frequently walk routes or patrol large areas. This can be a great career choice for someone who prefers working outside to traditional office settings where they may spend hours sitting in a chair. You can maintain an active lifestyle while working and even improve your physical condition. The majority of a security guard’s shift is typically spent walking or moving, but some guards sit at a desk or monitor to watch cameras and supervise building entrances.
Security officers offer their employers a crucial and beneficial service. They can guard anything, including cash and valuables, and assist in safeguarding corporate assets and mitigating loss. Security personnel can deter trespassers from entering a building and even safeguard corporate trade secrets. Knowing that you are putting a barrier between criminals and the company’s assets may make you feel incredibly good. You might also make more money in certain security roles because businesses frequently reward these services with distinctive benefit packages and market-competitive salaries.
Some security officers receive training in various self-defense techniques or gun handling. Additionally, they learn crucial security procedures and actions to take in case of an intrusion, natural disaster, or other event. This knowledge may be helpful to you at home, at work, or in your personal life. Knowing self-defense techniques and fundamental security precautions can help you make your home more secure and possibly even protect you when you’re out in public. Not all security positions need such extensive training, but some only accept applications from guards who have a strong background in self-defense or firearms.
Although some security officers in management positions hold college degrees, becoming a security guard is generally not required. This means that once you land a job in security, you can avoid accruing student debt and immediately begin making money. Some security guards do need licenses, but the requirements vary by guard type and location of employment.
Cons
Although working as a security guard can have many advantages, there are some drawbacks to take into account. Here are five common cons of being a security guard:
Although security personnel serve as a deterrent to crime on-site, this does not guarantee that no crimes will be committed while they are on duty. You may encounter potentially dangerous situations with criminals while working as a security guard. To navigate these circumstances, you’ll need solid training, tolerance, and problem-solving abilities. Although the majority of security officers never have an incident during their careers, it is still crucial to prepare so that you are ready in case of an emergency. The better you are prepared, the more effectively you can react to any circumstance.
While some people may benefit from having flexible hours, others may find working night shifts to be a drawback. It can be exhausting to work the night shift because you have to remain awake and alert all through the night. Security officers who work the night shift get used to the hours and eventually stop feeling as exhausted after each shift. Consider whether you can or want to work those hours before pursuing a security guard career because your employer may require you to work night shifts.
There may not always be many opportunities for advancement for security guards. You could work as a security guard or supervisor, which might provide a little bit better hours and pay. From there, without additional education, it becomes more challenging to obtain a higher salary or position. To support your experience in security, for instance, you might pursue a bachelor’s degree if you want to work as a security consultant or analyst. Some security officers launch their own companies, providing contractor security services or security consulting. It’s a great way to learn about the business and gain experience to start out as a security guard.
Some security guards may become burned out due to the possibility of long hours, night shifts, and overtime. Burnout is a feeling that develops after working too hard for a period of weeks, months, or years and starting to feel worn out or uninterested. By seeking out new employment opportunities at various locations, requesting different hours, and devoting more time to honing particular skills, security guards can avoid burnout in their careers.
Pros & Cons to being a security guard.
FAQ
What are the disadvantages of security guards?
- Risky Business. Every time they go to work, security guards risk their lives.
- Low Pay. …
- Difficult Work. …
- Continuous Training.
What are the pros of being a security guard?
- Flexible working hours. …
- Little to no formal education requirements. …
- Positive career outlook. …
- Active and physically engaging. …
- People-oriented and fulfilling. …
- Variety of work tasks and employment settings. …
- Flexible options for independent and teamwork settings.
Are security guards happy?
In fact, security officers rate their career happiness at 2. 6 out of 5 stars which puts them in the bottom 7% of careers
Do security guards sleep?
The majority of security officers even work both day and night. Not sleeping at work is one of the biggest challenges they encounter while working. Some people are struggling to fight sleepiness, while others are acting blatantly disrespectfully in the hopes that they won’t be discovered.
