4 Tips to Keep Security Guards Motivated

Working in Security is fast-paced, intense, and rewarding; no shift is the same. Security guards are human too, and such varying work conditions may impact their drive, passion, and performance. As a security company, we prioritise our security guards staying motivated to work on the job. So, you can rest assured that we are providing the best service to our clients. Whether you are browsing our website to outsource with us or curious about Security, we’ve highlighted 4 tried and tested security guard tips to keep security guards motivated. 1. Communication Whatever the size of your security company, communication is vital. Communication is key, so we’ve broken it into two sub-sections. Building a link between the client and security guard If you operate a medium-sized company, being on the job with your guards is not always possible. That’s why it’s vital to establish a communication channel between your client and your security guards. The client knows what’s best to grow their business, but your security team understands how to protect them. After all, they will be on the front line. Encourage them to report and share their views and ideas to improve the security strategy for the client. Showing your trust in your security guards’ experience is a sure way to keep them motivated to work hard on the job. Check the mental health and well-being of your guards. Security can be a roller-coaster of a job. Shifts as a security guard can vary from calm to physical, where guards may have to restrain or physically remove an individual from a building. Always check in with your security guard’s mental health, as you never know how that difficult shift has affected them. Ask them if they are okay. It is vital for security guards to go on breaks to clear their head so they can remain alert on shift. Furthermore, are they asking for extra shifts with the cost of living increasing? There is nothing wrong with working more hours. But Security is a role that requires full attention and stability, so be sure that they stay energised. 2. Establish a relationship with your Security guards When you hire your security guards, learn their strengths and weaknesses; are they team players, or do they work better alone? With this knowledge, you can appoint and prioritise suitable guards for your clients. For example, let’s say you have a concierge security job, typically of longer hours and customer-facing. To maintain the reputation of your business, you will make sure that you choose security guards that thrive in quiet environments and have good customer service whilst still being 100% focused on the task at hand. Similarly, with a festival contract, you will make sure the guards who work well as a group in busy and unpredictable environments are on the job. Understanding your security guards’ strengths and weaknesses helps your business maintain good relations with clients. As you tailor the jobs to your guards strengths, you keep them motivated to work with your company. 3. Equip your security team with the correct tools to do their job All security guards should be equipped with a working pen and notepad to record any incidents that may occur while on duty. However, if your guards work in hostile, vulnerable or highly aggressive environments, you should supply them with the latest body camera technology. Body cameras are great for deterring and de-escalating crime but are also there to provide physical evidence should an incident occur. Purchasing technology is beneficial to giving evidence but also shows that you care for the well-being of your staff. 4. Ensure security guards are up-to-date with training Train your security guards Train your Security Guards Frequent training courses or continuous, professional development (CPD) benefit staff in every industry but are essential in the security sector. Security directors and managers must ensure their guards are up to date with their knowledge of public safety. Last year (December 2022) saw the introduction of Martyn’s Law. The legislation will become a legal requirement for all UK venues throughout 2023. The law is in place to ensure locations where “qualifying activities” take place have the correct preparations and protections to safeguard the public from a terror attack. Discuss these laws with your security team or the contract manager and ensure everyone is on the same page regarding the emergency and terrorism policy. Security guards can further their counter-terrorism knowledge by taking the free ACT Security course. Keeping your security guards trained guarantees they know the correct procedures to follow in an emergency. Furthermore, you show that you care about their careers by investing in their progression. Why is it important to keep security guards motivated? The simple answer is that motivation keeps security guards producing their best work! Regardless of their industry, every worker wants to feel appreciated and supported in their efforts. By trusting the judgement of your guards and investing in training that benefits their career progression, you are enabling them to take more responsibility within their role, resulting in more focused and efficient work.

For more information on 4 Tips to Keep Security Guards Motivated talk to Professional Alert Security Ltd