What Kind of Security Officer Do You Need?

Every building, organization and corporate culture is unique. Security programs, and security officers, must be viewed through the same lens.

When a security director or organizational leader makes the decision to begin or enhance a security program, the decision making doesn’t end there. Many types of security responsibilities need to be considered so that the right security officers are selected. With that in mind, what kind of security officers do you need?

• Is a military or law enforcement background required?

• How important is customer service experience?

• Are the security officers public facing or are the posts more isolated?

• Will the security officers interact with your employees frequently?

• Are technology skills critical?

• Do you require cleared officers?

• Will posts and patrols be indoor or outdoor?

This list is just a start. There are many factors to consider in the development of a security program. When needs and expectations are clearly defined, the stage is set for success. By defining your security program needs, careful recruiting and screening can occur to align candidates with positions where they will excel. This requires a formal approach that systematically evaluates and logs candidate expertise and work preferences, and then brings the right personnel and positions together.

So, how does all of this come to life? The first step is a realization and recognition that there is no such thing as a cookie-cutter security program. Then you need to identify and partner with a security services provider who shares that philosophy, and also has the resources to provide a tailored security program to meet your needs. In addition to expertise and a commitment to excellence, this also requires formal recruiting and quality assurance processes, local management support, industry-specific training and overall leadership support for not just getting it done, but getting it done right. That type of security provider can offer the people and processes that will make a difference for you. 

What type of security officer is right for your site? Tell us in the comment section below!

  About the Author 
  Mike Smidt is the Northwest Region President for Allied Universal.