10 Misconceptions About Being A Security Guard

There may be many reasons why you remain undecided about applying for SIA training course. Well if you’re in doubt, then this short list is especially for you. There are a bunch of misconceptions about the security industry, and we’re here to do some myth busting on some of them. 

1. Security jobs are boring

A misconception many have is that working as a Security Guard is boring. This is not at all the case. Security guards are an intricate part of office buildings, shopping malls, clubs & bars, and social events (such as weddings, political gatherings, concerts, etc).

If you see yourself as an insignificant part of your job, then you’ve left open a vulnerability that can be exploited. Security guards who see their jobs as mundane, become easy targets for criminals and troublemakers. The trick to being a good security guard is understanding the importance of the job and doing it well every second of every day.

2. Standing guard offers no mental stimulation

You may think that most of your career as a security personnel will be spent standing around doing nothing. If this is your idea of the security industry, think again. Employers are looking for security personnel who are alert and ready for action. Moreover, they’re looking for proactive individuals who put their security training to good use by conducting routine patrols, searches, and on-the-spot risk assessments.

3. It’s simply too dangerous

On the other hand, some believe that the security industry is just too risky for them. What you may not know is that proper Security Guard training prepares you for dangerous situations and helps you to deal with those situations properly. You will be taught how to avoid bad situations, but also how to handle them if they do come up.

4. Security pays too little

While there are security jobs out there that pay low wages, a legitimate SIA licence will provide you with the kind of sought after qualification that employers will pay more for. Besides, you can always extend your qualifications with more courses, and either showcase your value to your current employer, or seek out new employment that allows you to utilise your additional skills.

5. Security personnel are often disrespected

While you may have seen some hyped up television shows about how Security Guards are abused, these situations are actually few and far between. For the most part, Security Guards are respected by their friends & family, and also respected by the public they come in contact with. People feel safe around security personnel, which makes the job that much more worthwhile.

6. The industry is too stressful

The security industry has its fair share of anxiety—but what job doesn’t? Ultimately, stress can be dealt with by eating correctly, exercising regularly, and managing your time. The trick is to not work too hard—it’s just a job after all.

7. There’s no room for growth within the industry

This is perhaps one of the biggest misconceptions of the security industry. There is plenty of growth opportunities for security personnel because security is such a sought after skill. Some of the avenues regular Security Guards can move into if they receive the proper SIA training include:

• – Bodyguard
• – Security response team management
• – Police
• – CCTV specialist
• – Mall security management
• – Residential security
• – …and lots more

8. The hours are too long

Many security guards work night-shift, which makes for some tricky time management challenges. However, these security personnel often make up for this by having the day off to do all their day-to-day activities. If you manage your time & sleep correctly, working night-shift can turn out to be a real blessing in disguise.

9. It’s not fun

Today, most of us agree that enjoying your job is the key to success and career growth. Security is really what you make of it, and there are lots of fun avenues you can explore. If it’s the kind of industry you feel you will fit in well with, why not sign up for different types of courses that support your career in the security industry and take your career into a whole new direction of excitement and mental stimulation.

10. Training is too complicated

Signing up for your SIA licence is simpler than you think. You can find and book a course through the Get Licensed Course Finder and you are only a few steps away from becoming a top notch security guard or door supervisor—with a promising career in the wide open world of security.

How to work in the security sector

If you are interested in working in the security sector, whether it be as a Door Supervisor, Security Guard or CCTV Operative, you will need to obtain a SIA Licence.

To obtain a SIA Licence, you will need to complete a course. Once you have completed the course, will you then be able to apply for an SIA Licence and work in the security sector.