Security Guard Firms

Post the infamous terrorist attacks on America and the UK, the need for security guards have become more necessary than ever. People have also started taking more interest in the lives of celebrities. Add to that the turmoil created by the recent financial meltdown, the need for security guards have become more of a necessity than a luxury.

In a recent conference of the Executive Protection Institute held in USA, experts opined that the security industry has grown by 15% and is expected to grow further. Security Guard Firms employ security personnel with different skill sets. Let us take a look.

Employees of Security Guard Firms

Most of us think about security guards as hugely built bodyguards, wearing black eyewear with guns peeking out of their black coats and shadowing around their celebrity clients. But there is more than that to the security business.

Private investigation is one aspect of security jobs. Firms usually look for people who have mastered several languages and have relevant experience in investigative work. Such a type is one of the most lucrative security jobs around.

People with extensive knowledge of computers, encryption, system analysis and programming experience are employed at computer security firms and are paid very well.

Private bodyguards are expected to be skilled vehicle drivers who can avoid any unpleasant and potentially dangerous situation by quickly getting their clients out of the scene. Salary of private bodyguards far exceeds that of a mall security guard, but the job is harder too. Security Guard Firms make proper assessment of the skill sets before employing potential candidates.

Key holding is another aspect of security that such firms offer. This is a cost effective solution to keep nuisance makers at bay. Mobile patrol teams are a low cost and effective way to tackle break in situations.

Qualifications and Requirements

Security Guard Firms usually hire people licensed by the Security Industry Authority. The SIA provides license to individuals who have successfully completed SIA endorsed qualifications. Ex-army men have a good chance of getting employed at such firms. There are several training institutes in The UK that help candidates earn their SIA license; some of them even have money back guarantee offers.

Apart from being physically fit, security officers are expected to work in tough pressure situations, work as a team and show leadership qualities. Most of all, they need to make immediate decisions to protect lives or properties.