Characteristics of an Exemplary Security Guard

Security guards must possess qualities such as honesty, bravery, vigilance, discipline, and loyalty. Given that guards are responsible for safeguarding company and consumer property, it is imperative that they possess unwavering honesty. Engaging in actions such as failing to prevent property damage or theft, accepting bribes or gratuities, or allowing the violation of corporate standards may result in immediate termination.

Sustained vigilance is crucial and could potentially determine the outcome between survival and fatality. Tasks such as patrols might get tedious over time due to their repetitive nature. Due to the inherent purpose of these procedures being the safeguarding of individuals and facilities, which may entail potential hazards, guards must maintain a constant state of vigilance for their own safety as well as the safety of anyone in their vicinity.

Unquestioning compliance and accurate implementation of all directives issued by higher authorities are always required. Regulations often provide that a guard must remain at their assigned location until they are relieved by another officer or instructed to leave by a superior. Guards must ensure that their job performance remains unaffected and uninfluenced by personal feelings and preferences. Guards are required to demonstrate unwavering loyalty to their duties, the Security Industry, and the companies they work for. Every choice should be grounded on the optimal interests of the company. The guard must possess the requisite level of trustworthiness to handle secret information.

Demeanor
The initial interaction between a visitor or employee and the Guard can significantly influence their opinion of the organization, as the Guard is typically the first point of contact. There are three crucial factors that are associated with attitude:

Politeness
Self-control
Curiosity or fascination.
Courtesy is the act of demonstrating thoughtfulness and respect towards others. It eradicates friction and enhances the pleasantness of personal connections. The Security Guard can acquire the collaboration of everyone, a vital instrument in fulfilling their responsibilities, by displaying politeness towards others. Guards must maintain a polite demeanor while answering questions, providing instructions, and enforcing rules or traffic regulations. A resolute demeanor may not necessitate aggression. Regardless of the seeming absurdity, it is important to respond politely and pleasantly to repetitive inquiries from visitors or employees.

Guards are expected to behave calmly and without excessive emotion, refrain from using offensive language, avoid engaging in arguments, and minimize the use of force whenever feasible. Exhibiting a composed and respectable demeanor tends to elicit respect and is generally more impactful than adopting a hostile attitude. Discussions pertaining to politics, religion, and society should be avoided during work hours to prevent conflicts arising from differing viewpoints. It is imperative to always take into account one’s tolerance for the opinions of others. Guards are required to carry out their responsibilities without adopting an intimidating demeanor. A Guard must also possess a genuine interest in their profession and derive a certain degree of enjoyment from it. If the guard does not derive any satisfaction from their work, their demeanor towards interacting with the public and colleagues may deteriorate.

Responsibilities of a Security Guard
Individuals must possess a Security Guard license if they engage in paid work primarily focused on safeguarding individuals or property. This encompasses several roles such as bodyguards, bouncers, Loss Prevention Personnel, Mobile Patrol Guard, Event Security, and Hospital Security. You have the opportunity to join either a Corporate Security team or an Armoured Car Service, or work as a Concierge at a high-end Condominium.

Each of these positions necessitates the individual’s ability to function in diverse situations and collaborate with individuals from various backgrounds. Regardless of the situation, competent guards will consistently provide exceptional customer service, possess expertise in their responsibilities, and demonstrate proficiency in enforcing the law.

Provide exceptional customer service. This encompasses traits such as honesty, politeness, attentiveness, helpfulness, friendliness, accountability, expertise, efficiency, intelligence, accuracy, and respectfulness. The guards will behave in a manner that instills a sense of comfort in individuals, and our customers are aware that we are present to assist them. They should possess the ability to promptly resolve problems and possess a comprehensive understanding of the appropriate course of action for any given scenarios at their assigned post or task.

Guards must demonstrate respect and decency towards everyone, especially any individuals they are guiding, training, or advising on any activity. While carrying out their responsibilities, all guards will maintain a courteous and amiable demeanor.

Effective communication abilities will be invaluable in your professional endeavors. Effective communication necessitates the capacity to articulate thoughts in a manner that is comprehensible to others. It is crucial to possess a profound understanding of effective strategies for managing stressful circumstances, both for oneself and others, as you will be summoned to intervene and resolve conflicts. Be attentive to all modes of communication, including verbal (spoken) and somatic (physical) language.

Importance of excellent customer service
The values of excellent service encompass the factors that significantly impact the quality of service and the satisfaction of consumers. The values are consistent throughout the service business. The clients and patrons are particularly sensitive to these fundamental aspects, as they significantly influence how they are handled and the value they attribute to the product.

Envision dining in a high-end restaurant. What kind of service would you anticipate from the waiter or service crew, given that they will be receiving a substantial gratuity? What kind of quality or standard would you anticipate from the food product considering its high cost?

Envision experiencing a night’s stay at one of the most luxurious hotels. What kind of treatment do you anticipate or desire? What specific criteria would you have for the state of a room? Is there a lounge space available? Is the inquiry about the demeanor or disposition of the staff?

Do you yield to assertive, demanding sales personnel when entering a retail boutique? Alternatively, do you favor an individual who dedicates the necessary time to attentively comprehend your preferences, and thereafter provides guidance and knowledge tailored to your selections? One individual is solely motivated by their commission, whereas the other person actually displays a sincere interest in assisting you. Whom do you favor?

By taking these factors into account, you will be able to determine the specific characteristics that contribute to excellent service quality. Our differentiation is in the manner in which we opt to convey these elements. As a Security Guard, you are expected to demonstrate exceptional proficiency in five essential domains. Revisiting the aforementioned instances, what specific terms or characteristics would you link to a restaurant and hotel that offer professional, top-notch, luxurious, and exceptional service?

Would you employ terms such as efficient, hygienic, pleasant, clever, proactive, considerate, agreeable, amiable, well-informed, accommodating, prompt, and appreciative?

Would you want to be assisted by an individual that exhibits moodiness, irritability, strong opinions, anger, distress, mumbling about colleagues, unpredictability, intensity, and unnecessary arm gestures?

Contemplate the matter. Exercise mindfulness in your interactions within the surroundings.

Acquire a comprehensive understanding of their responsibilities. This entails possessing comprehensive knowledge of all business policies, site-specific policies, pertinent guidelines, operational directives, and any other instructions that must be adhered to, without the need for external references. It encompasses the parameters of your responsibilities as a Security Guard as defined by the Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005, and include understanding how to appropriately and morally react to any scenario that may arise while performing your duties.

Exhibit proficiency in the implementation of legal principles. This entails understanding and adhering to legal regulations, prescribed instructions, and organizational guidelines. Understanding the respective responsibilities of the Security Guard, the general public, and the Peace Officer in maintaining the safety of our communities. Every individual have a certain degree of responsibility and capacity to act in accordance with their understanding and role.

As Security Guards, our primary duty is to safeguard the general public by serving as official observers for Peace Officers and Police Officers. Therefore, it is imperative that we ensure our actions consistently adhere to the permissible limits set for Security Guards and comply with the legal provisions that authorize you to carry out your duties. This includes being aware of when it becomes necessary to involve the Police in order to handle situations that surpass your skills.

Reflect about your actions and the manner in which you are executing them. Attempt to detach yourself from the present moment and envision how your behaviors are perceived by those in your vicinity. What would be the appropriate response from a professional officer? Do your behaviors align with the mental image? Are you a law enforcement officer, or simply a someone wearing a uniform?

When responding and helping, refrain from unnecessarily highlighting the situation. It is crucial to generate positive testimonies, while also ensuring that negative testimonies are not created. We aim to avoid attracting public attention and curiosity, similar to the way people tend to slow down and observe an automobile accident when passing by. Individuals possess a natural inclination to observe and inquire, hence it is imperative to have a consistently professional demeanor at all times. Enhanced job performance is a direct result of basic consciousness.

Below is a concise overview of the responsibilities carried out by a Security Guard. Further elaboration on these positions will be provided during the training.

Customer Service Representative
Site surveillance
Security personnel responsible for preventing loss or theft.
Offering aid in fortifying structures
Implementation of Rules and Regulations
Conflict Resolution
Serving as an intermediary for emergency services
Writing a report
It is crucial that all these responsibilities are executed with competence and in accordance with the norms and regulations outlined in the Private Security and Investigative Services Act of Ontario, which will be explained later in this course. The legislation pertaining to Security Guards, including this Act and other relevant Acts, will be discussed in detail at a later point in the course. It is important to acknowledge that one of the most significant critiques of Security Guards is their tendency to behave as if they are Police. This is completely false. A Security Guard is completely distinct from a Police Officer in every aspect. Security personnel possess specific legislation that grants them limited authority to police certain laws. Nevertheless, their powers, responsibilities, and duties differ from those of Police Officers.

Security Guards must possess a comprehensive knowledge of the legislation that regulates the security sector and the specific regulations that they are empowered to uphold. This legislation impacts the authority of the guard to make arrests and imposes restrictions on their conduct. The purpose of the law is twofold: to safeguard individuals in society from criminal activities and to ensure the protection of both law enforcement personnel and law offenders. It is important to bear in mind that every individual is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. While it may be considered trite, this principle is a vital element of the legal system in Ontario and must be adhered to by all individuals involved in law enforcement. Regardless of whether a guard witnesses the commission of a criminal offense, such as shoplifting or trespassing, it is important to acknowledge that every individual has the right to a fair trial.

Professionalism, Public Relations, and Personal Image
The region in question is undeniably one of the utmost significant facets that necessitate attention and enhancement throughout your tenure at the site. All aspects of human interaction, including verbal and non-verbal communication, as well as one’s demeanor, unconscious gestures, posture, and mindset. Every individual you encounter is discreetly observing your demeanor. Every individual you encounter is simultaneously a customer, as you are perpetually being assessed by those who financially support your services. This might have both positive and negative implications. By being conscious of your words and actions, you may leverage them to advance your personal and professional growth, ultimately gaining recognition for your endeavors. Consequently, even slight errors or oversights could promptly result in your relocation to a different work location.

How can we enhance our self-perception? How can we guarantee that we are presenting ourselves in the most favorable manner? How do you desire to be perceived and commemorated by the individuals who provide financial support for your salary? By paying close attention to your: nonverbal communication and gestures, attire, choice of words and speaking style, and personal cleanliness.

Nonverbal Communication & Gestures
Lexicon and Linguistic Structures
Personal hygiene refers to the practices and habits that individuals adopt to maintain cleanliness and promote good health. It include activities such as regular bathing, brushing teeth, washing hands, and keeping the body and surroundings
Attire
Nonverbal Communication & Gestures
The nonverbal cues you display through your body language are more impactful in communicating information about yourself than any other observable means, with the exception of possibly your fashion choices and clothing style. Prior to engaging in conversation with your topic, they already possess a preconceived notion about your identity and the manner in which you will interact with them. By integrating this with the initial words or sentences you utter, it establishes the foundation for the initial impression. Research has demonstrated that initial impressions are established within a few seconds of meeting someone and tend to be quite stable over time. Stereotypes contribute to this initial assessment, as do prior encounters with others in like professions, fields of employment, or style communities. The individual’s personal experience and perceived image operate as filters that influence all subsequent interactions. It is crucial to not only provide a favorable initial impression, but also to cultivate a positive perception of your role, organization, fashion sense, and character in order to challenge the stereotype that you conform to. In future interactions, it is important to promote the perspective of empathy and treat others as you would like to be treated.

What actions may we do to establish a favorable initial perception? How can you ensure that your body language is projecting a favorable impression of you? Here are some factors to contemplate when presenting oneself.

Posture: Are you exhibiting a hunched or stooped position? Assume a seated or standing position while maintaining a posture that keeps your shoulders in a straight and calm position. Ensure that you bring your shoulder blades into contact with each other and maintain a straight posture.
Eye alignment: Maintain a relaxed state in your eyes and refrain from squinting. Maintain direct eye contact when engaging in conversation with others.
Head position: Maintain a neutral stance by avoiding tilting your head or looking downwards. Maintain an upright posture by ensuring that your head is properly aligned. Direct your gaze towards the horizon while in motion.
Gait: Ambulate with a calm and unhurried manner. Proceed with confident and stable strides, ensuring comfort. Proceed at a leisurely pace, allowing your movements to become more relaxed. Stride with assurance.
Relax to alleviate tension. Individuals possess the ability to perceive when you are under tension. Whether caused by stress or exertion, it is undesirable to have your muscles contracted and impeding your innate movement patterns while working.
The second component of body language pertains to one’s manner of speech and the specific gestures employed. One’s subconscious behaviors should not repel or divert people’s attention. Please take into account the following key points.

Do you employ manual gestures while elucidating a concept?
Do you exhibit increased locomotion when experiencing excitement or nervousness?
Have you ever experienced a state of immobility or paralysis? For what reason? What caused this to occur?
Do you engage in any recurring habits or actions? (for example – engaging in onychophagia when experiencing anxiety)
Do you possess an active or subdued demeanor?
Are there any facial expressions that you frequently employ? Are your facial expressions and eye movements indicative of your emotions? What is the quality of your poker face?
Can you express your emotions outwardly? (Do others have a rapid and synchronized emotional response similar to yours? For instance, when you feel anger, it appears that those in your vicinity also experience anger.)
You are likely to generate numerous other personal observations. Reflect upon your typical behaviors. Not all of these things are inherently negative, provided that we are aware of them and can effectively manage them. Once you become accustomed to certain behaviors, they might be utilized to foster comprehension or establish a hospitable atmosphere. To facilitate the relaxation of others, you might convey a tranquil and composed attitude by means of your nonverbal cues. At a fundamental level, it is important to recognize that all animals communicate via body language. Additionally, our ability to interpret human movements is instinctively ingrained in our brains as a result of evolution. It is inevitable, so, manage and exploit it to your benefit.

Linguistic lexicon and patterns of verbal expression
The importance of effective communication is often underestimated, particularly in regards to the skills of active listening and articulate speaking. The choice of vocabulary and the manner in which it is employed significantly impact how individuals will perceive and respond to you, as well as how they will interpret your perspective.

When attending to a complaint or customer, it is crucial to be completely present and avoid anticipating or preparing a premeditated response. Simply pay whole attention to the argument being delivered. Facets such as maintaining eye contact, adopting a confident stance and body language, exhibiting composure by refraining from fidgeting or other distracting behaviors, can effectively convey to the customer that you are attentively listening to them and willing to assist them to the best of your ability.

When engaging in conversation with others, endeavor to emulate the style and level of sophistication of their language. Employ identical adjectives and phrases that they are utilizing. Empathetic Communication is adapting one’s language to resonate with the recipient’s educational background and upbringing, rather than just parroting their words. To ensure effective communication, it is important to employ strategies such as using similar vocabulary, maintaining a calm and pleasant tone, allowing sufficient time for the listener to comprehend the message, speaking at a moderate pace to avoid rushing, and providing thorough explanations.

The manner in which you speak will also influence how people perceive and understand your behaviors. Communicate in a composed manner, and assertively if necessary, but consistently with courtesy, aiming to aid individuals you are serving. To ensure that you are easily identifiable as an officer, it is important to pay attention to your look, posture, equipment, and demeanor.

Please articulate your words at a reduced pace. During moments of nervousness, haste, or multitasking, there is often a proclivity to speak at an accelerated pace. Unwind and inhale deeply. Maintain a consistently courteous demeanor at all times. Incorporating the expressions ‘Please’ and ‘Thank you’ will greatly contribute to the situation. Despite the need for assertiveness in your communication, it is still possible to maintain politeness.

Maintain constant vigilance over the manner and those with whom you engage in conversation. In order to engage with individuals, it is imperative that you have a valid reason and that your interactions are suitable for the specific time and location of the business. Even when addressing a problem, you are still being watched by others, and it is important to maintain a high level of professionalism in your service.

Consistency in the quality of service should be maintained across all your encounters, regardless of the individuals you are assisting. As you perform your job, remember to adhere to these principles of excellent service: exhibit politeness, courtesy, respect, expertise, efficiency, helpfulness, friendliness, and authority.

Hygiene practices related to an individual’s cleanliness and grooming.
Ensuring your personal look and hygiene are of utmost importance. We aspire to be perceived as proficient and well-informed. Maintain the cleanliness and tidiness of your uniform by regularly washing, cleaning, and pressing it in a neat and orderly manner. Ensure that your shoes are well-polished and that your stuff is well organized. It is advisable to avoid overloading duty belts with goods. Here are some items that you can carry: medical gloves, tactical gloves, a keeper or key-ring, and a torch with a holder.

These factors significantly influence how individuals will interact with you and how they interpret your words and behavior. You should cultivate a reputation as a consummate professional. Other professionals maintain a tidy and well-groomed appearance. Individuals seeking the services of a lawyer, surgeon, or police officer would prefer that these professionals do not possess any unpleasant body odor or neglect personal hygiene practices such as combing and washing their hair.

Attire
Ensure that your outfit is well ironed and fully assembled. If a tie is required, then put it on. Footwear, whether shoes or boots, must be polished. Ensure that your jacket is immaculate and devoid of any dust or trash. It is necessary to visibly exhibit all appropriate forms of identification. Ensure that you ventilate your outfit on a daily basis. Avoid storing it in an enclosed gym bag or rucksack when moving it from home to the site. Avoid prolonged storage of the item in a locker without periodically removing it for cleaning. Refer to your company’s employee handbook or uniform policy and adhere to its guidelines. Several crucial factors to bear in mind are:

Every guard will ensure that they own a pristine and appropriately ironed uniform for every shift. Every guard is accountable for the maintenance of their uniform and ensuring that all appropriate equipment is worn during every shift.
Guards are prohibited from wearing any recognizable uniform or equipment outside of work in any public location. Without legal authority, it is prohibited to wear or use any unlawful equipment, including batons, handcuffs, pepper spray, and scanners.
Guards are prohibited from consuming alcohol while on duty or while wearing any portion of the uniform. Engaging in smoking or chewing gum while wearing a uniform or doing official duties is strictly prohibited.
Security personnel must refrain from engaging in horseplay, practical joking, and fraternization during their assigned shifts. It is advisable to promote a disciplined and professional demeanor in the military. Security personnel must refrain from engaging in any form of idleness, adopting a relaxed posture, or placing their hands inside their pockets while on duty.
Protocols for Appropriate Behavior and Etiquette
The mere presence of a guard is frequently inadequate as assessments are commonly made based on communication skills, appropriate behavior, and professional demeanor. Guards should exercise caution and awareness regarding their conduct in the following areas:

Possessing an air of grace and self-assurance. A crucial aspect of a Security Guard’s responsibility is to carry out their duties with assurance and poise. The Security Guard will earn the respect of those around them by performing all their duties with dignity. Confidence can enhance the Security Guard’s ability to carry out their tasks by subtly strengthening the authority bestowed upon them. The Guard’s confident demeanor has a tendency to influence anyone who interact with them during their responsibilities. The sense of comfort provided by this emotion is quite important when it comes to handling emergency situations and greatly contributes to resolving challenging interpersonal relationships. By approaching the public with a demeanor of respectful self-assurance, issues can be promptly resolved and assistance from the public can be more readily achieved.

Serene and collected. During emergency or crisis situations, the Security Guard is expected to assume the responsibility of managing the situation. By assuming this position, the Security Guard also assumes the duty to maintain a state of tranquility and composure, and to act with effectiveness in aiding emergency services professionals to promptly resolve the problem. In the event of a crisis, the Security Guard’s loss of composure will exacerbate the existing degree of terror among the audience. The Security Guard must promptly respond and effectively manage any situation to the fullest extent of their ability. In the event of an evacuation, the Security Guard is responsible for guiding patrons to the closest secure departure location. To maintain order and prevent chaos, the guard should handle the situation calmly and composedly, creating the perception that everything is under control. This will enable the evacuation to occur with optimal efficiency, perhaps resulting in life-saving outcomes in some circumstances. In the event of a severe injury, maintaining composure allows the Security Guard to react efficiently, provide reassurance to the public, and obtain necessary assistance for the injured individual.

Exhibiting diplomacy and thoughtfulness. A Security Guard is hired to safeguard the property owner’s interests; yet, the average citizen sometimes assumes that the guard is present to defend the interests of the general public. This notion does not impede the guard’s capacity to do their duties. Public support is frequently one of the most valuable advantages for guards. To effectively execute the directives of the security position, a guard must command the admiration and esteem of the individuals present at the location. The demeanor of reverence and thoughtfulness is particularly crucial when interacting with those who may be under the influence of alcohol or otherwise unable to function normally.

Individuals that tend to be confrontational may not be familiar with receiving treatment that is characterized by respect and dignity. This can be advantageous for a guard while handling a challenging circumstance. When interacting with others, it is crucial to prioritize kindness, compassion, and tact as the initial approach. Irrespective of their circumstances, individuals tend to react most positively to those who respect their dignity. Individuals who are unaccustomed to receiving consideration and respect typically exhibit a more positive response to tact and politeness compared to those who are consistently exposed to similar amenities. Adopting an approach characterized by thoughtfulness and diplomacy can facilitate the guard in carrying out their responsibilities more effectively compared to an attitude of indifference or disdain. Adopt a universal approach of treating every person you come across with the same respect and consideration that you would expect to receive yourself. Given the lack of complete information regarding their narrative, it is most prudent to have a positive perspective while considering individuals. Individuals who are intoxicated or behaving in a disruptive manner retain all their fundamental human rights according to Canadian legislation, and as a result, they should be handled accordingly.

Practice self-control. Exercising self-control is a crucial element in managing those who are challenging or irate. The Security Guard should exhibit promptness and refrain from displaying excessive emotion. It is advisable to refrain from using abusive words, engaging in arguments, or resorting to force in any circumstances, wherever feasible. Individuals who are challenging and irate may escalate their vocal volume, engage in shouting or yelling, and may even resort to verbal abuse. Such actions will exacerbate the frustration of handling the matter. If the Security Guard exercises discretion in handling the situation, it will be advantageous for the Security Guard if the individual lodges a complaint with the company or individuals responsible for the site. Emphasizing the virtue of restraint is crucial, since it can help optimize outcomes under unfavorable circumstances.

Adhere to correct physical posture. While on duty, the Security Guard is required to maintain a suitable physical posture to demonstrate to the public their attentiveness, engagement, and pride in their profession. The Security Guard demonstrates apathy for their assignment by adopting a slouched, leaning, or squatting posture. Additionally, it conveys to the public that the guard has a preference for being in an other location or engaging in an alternative activity. Occasionally, a guard may find themselves stationed alone at a post for extended durations without any noteworthy events occurring in their vicinity. Regardless of any visible threats, it is crucial for all guards to consistently maintain a correct physical posture in preparation for potential situations that may necessitate their response. This action, above all things, will effectively communicate a favorable impression of the guard and their individual benchmarks of achievement, while also demonstrating reverence for the Client, Security Industry, and the Security Company. It presents the public with a favorable perception of the role of a guard. Smoking, chewing gum, and eating are strictly prohibited for a Security Guard while their duties. Security personnel are expected to maintain an upright and attentive posture, refraining from any form of relaxation, such as lounging or slouching, and keeping their hands out of their pockets when on duty. Consuming alcohol during or shortly prior to a work shift is explicitly prohibited. Consumption of alcohol or narcotics prior to or during a work shift will result in immediate termination.

Stride confidently and with determination. The Security Guard should conduct their patrols or commute between different regions of the property with a clear objective. The guard must always maintain a vigilant stance, refraining from dragging their feet or adopting a lazy posture when walking. These aspects contribute to the overall perception of the Security Guard by the client. The guard demonstrates engagement in their responsibilities by walking purposefully. This graphic can enhance the level of respect demonstrated by visitors to the website.

Ensure the work station is kept clean and organized. Ensuring a tidy work environment is crucial for the Security Guard to fulfill their responsibilities. Every item at the post should be assigned a designated location. There must be an absence of clutter. Effective organization benefits both the on-duty guard and their relievers. Chronological arrangement of Shift Reports is essential for ensuring precision and facilitating the retrieval of vital information. Shift reports are commonly archived in binders and these binders, along with the reports, are typically kept at the specific location. The binders or file cabinets must be labeled with the specific date range of all reports stored inside.

When stationed at a designated location, it will be imperative to complete essential documentation on-site. The maintenance of this documents must adhere to the prescribed instructions. The client should have effortless access to the information, eliminating the need for any manual search. To optimize efficiency, it is imperative to meticulously organize and store all documents, facilitating effortless retrieval. An untidy position fails to enhance the favorable perception of the Security Guard or the firm. The guard can instill confidence in their clients and co-workers by upholding a high degree of professionalism and ensuring that the work place is clean, organized, and orderly.

Exhibit favorable individual attitudes and patterns of conduct. Preserve an optimistic mindset. Attitudes may be remarkably infectious. A single individual harboring a pessimistic mindset has the potential to influence the individuals in their vicinity. Guards should do their responsibilities without adopting an intimidating demeanor. It is imperative for them to maintain an impersonal demeanor while performing their tasks consistently. Attitude can be likened to our emotional state, and it is within our control to deliberately select our attitude on a daily basis.

The Security Guard must also convey a genuine sense of enthusiasm for their job. The level of interest and contentment you experience in your profession has a direct impact on your demeanor towards the public, which then influences the public’s perception of you. Security guards are required to devote their complete attention to their duties. Hence, engaging in activities like as reading, listening to music, playing hand-held video games, surfing the web, or any other form of distraction or activity that is unrelated to the responsibilities of the guards is strictly prohibited.

Security guards must maintain a constant state of vigilance. There is a lack of opportunity to engage in sleep while fulfilling one’s responsibilities. Engaging in horseplay, practical joking, and fraternizing during duty hours will diminish the guard’s efficacy. It is imperative to preserve a professional and conscientious work atmosphere consistently.

Principles for Maintaining Discipline and Integrity
Given that Security Guards are professionals that wear uniforms, it is crucial for them to behave in a disciplined manner and embody the requirements of the customer, the firm they work for, and the standards established by the security industry. In order to successfully achieve this, guards must have in mind the following:

Comply with regulations, directives, and legal statutes. The primary responsibility of a Security Guard is to ensure compliance with rules and regulations at the assigned location. Alongside these obligations, the Security Guard will be closely scrutinized by the public, as well as colleagues and supervisors. Infringements on laws and regulations will be looked for. Therefore, it is necessary that the guard observe each of the requirements set out by the organization, the Private Security and Investigative Services Act, as well as the Criminal Code of Canada. The Security Guard must follow the standards of the law. This will avoid any prosecution against the Security Guard.

Set an example. The Security Guard has been placed in a position of authority. In this role, it is crucial to set an example while carrying out your responsibilities. This can be done with little effort and rather readily by the guard. By doing their tasks with interest, the guard will take pride in what they do and show that they are not just here for a paycheque. Confidence is crucial while carrying out their obligations, since it encourages the pride in the work that they are accomplishing. Respect is not just an important aspect in establishing an example; it is also a good habit to utilize in all that the Security Guard conducts. If you show respect for all the folks at the site, then they will have respect for the guards.

Be reliable and punctual. Reliability and punctuality are attributes that can create or destroy the positive image of the Security Guard. It is preferable to be at the site fifteen minutes before the start of the guard’s shift. This is advisable so that the Security Guard can be adequately briefed on the events that transpired during the previous shift. It also provides the Security Guard time to be completely prepared for the shift and ensures that the guard being relieved can leave promptly at the end of their shift. If the Security Guard is going to be late due to unforeseen circumstances then they must give the dispatcher enough time to warn the guard already on shift. Punctuality promotes reliability. By being punctual, the guard shows the client that they are reliable. Being reliable and punctual reflects positively on a guard’s performance and will be reflected in a positive performance assessment.

Get the job done. When conducting duties on site, the guard should attend to them as soon as feasible. Procrastination will lead to tasks being left uncompleted. This reflects positively on the Security Guard’s reliability and dependability. If the Security Guard is given a duty outside of standard post orders, then it should be fulfilled soon away. This is delivering the client good customer service, which adds to the positive image of the Security Guard. If a patron to the site raises a concern or complaint to the guard, it should be handled with swiftly, even if it means momentarily interrupting the other tasks of the position.

Avoid providing or receiving favours. Favours should be avoided at all times while the guard is on duty. It is a wonderful gesture if someone who is not a Security Guard, volunteers to aid assist the guard in their job. However, the problem in accepting assistance is that if the task is not done correctly, then the responsibility for mistakes remains with the Security Guard. It is the guard’s obligation to complete all of their tasks and to guarantee that they are done appropriately. The same can be stated for extending a favour to do a function that is not the duties of a Security Guard. If the job is not done properly, then as a person in a position of authority, blame for the mistake could fall with the guard as he/she is the one who was expected to complete the assignment. By undertaking things that are not assigned to the post, the guard takes time and effort away from the duties they have been assigned to complete. Attention diverted from the Security Guard’s duty might also offer criminals the opportunity to execute criminal crimes. Avoid being distracted at all costs while on duty. Security Guards are not permitted to receive gratuities (tips). Accepting money while on the job could give the impression that the guard is accepting a bribe.

Maintain an interest in the job. There will be occasions when a Security Guard on duty, loses interest because of a lack of events on shift, or because they are posted overnight. It is during these times that the guard will have a tendency to relax and take their duty casually. This is an understandable and prevalent problem in the security profession, but it is up to the guard to ensure that they exhibit interest in the job they are performing. The Security Guard should never read, use personal listening devices, or sleep while at the work site. In order to remain professional in appearance, the guard must never sit, lean on doors, walls or act in any manner where they appear not to be interested in working. Maintaining an interest is easy. If there are no events then the guard could proceed on an extended patrol, or chat with renters or patrons to check that there are no concerns or complaints. When conversing with individuals, keep the conversation short and do not let it distract you from the things that you are accountable for.

Review one’s own performance periodically. Self reflection can assist the guard perform their job better than any number of training classes. Self review can be done at any moment and is as simple as asking someone what the guard could do differently or what they could improve upon. Self review need not be restricted to the opinions of the client. By interacting with co-workers and colleagues, as well as supervisors and regular tenants or patrons to the location, the Security Guard can acquire an other view of their performance. The Security Guard can then try to figure out how to enhance their performance and try to find ways to make the way they do their tasks easier and more efficient.

Life as a Security Guard
Security Guards have tough jobs that may involve stress and odd work hours. Candidates should be aware that security is a 24-Hour, 7-day a week industry, often working through holidays. It is often when everyone else is going home for the night, that security is just beginning their shift, and starting their work day. Some of the more demanding components of the work are:

Rotating and unpredictable work schedules
Responding to situations in difficult conditions
PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) after dealing with Emergency Situations or Violent incidents
Working in unsafe regions and around hazardous materials
Interacting with possibly violent or aggressive people, psychologically or emotionally unstable persons, and other high intensity mediation scenarios
Increased accountability and responsibility
Increased workload during busy times
In the course of their duty, Guards often have to remain calm and comfortable in the face of stressful events. Guards should be mindful of their stress levels in their duties and consult with their manager or superiors to make sure that they are not suffering from burnout or anxiety from their work environment.