Why the Security Guard Mindset Needs to Evolve

I run a security training school, which doesn’t shield me from constant calls from people looking for actual security work. Every day, I receive call after call asking, "Are you hiring?" I often find myself wondering, why are these people calling me? Since 2020, I’ve been in the security training business, but I haven’t yet made the leap into becoming a security company offering proprietary guards for access control and observation duties. In other words, I don’t hire security guards, but people looking for work don’t know that.

A Common Misunderstanding

A large portion of the calls I get are from people seeking security jobs. This misunderstanding is puzzling and raises questions. What can be done to shift this perception? One critical factor is the knowledge gap regarding job acquisition in today's digital world.

The Digital Shift in Job Searching

What I don't get is why, in this digital age, job seekers – especially those in security – aren't using the internet efficiently. The world is digital now, so why are people still searching for jobs the old-fashioned way, like flipping through a phone book? Most jobs these days are found and applied for online, through major platforms like Indeed, Monster, and ZipRecruiter.

This digital shift is undeniable, yet many candidates remain stuck in outdated practices. They make numerous phone calls instead of leveraging technology. It’s perplexing and frustrating, especially when the tools to improve their job search are right at their fingertips.

The Training Dilemma

I believe it's the mindset of many security guards. They’re often complacent in their roles. The average security guard receives only 24 hours of training, no more, no less (excluding any on-the-job training). This quick training period tends to create a laid-back attitude toward the job and its responsibilities.

This lack of preparation breeds a culture of passivity. A security guard who is underprepared may not feel motivated to explore innovative job search strategies. Without urging familiarity with technology, these individuals are left with outdated methods of seeking employment.

The Importance of a Strong Resume

However, for those who want a quality security job, a strong resume is essential. You must upload it to job sites and use them to apply to as many opportunities as possible in a short amount of time. Platforms like Fiverr allow you to hire experts to polish your resume so it stands out.

Additionally, optimizing your resume with keywords relevant to security positions can enhance its visibility. This strategy ensures your application catches the attention of hiring managers.

Networking: The Key to Success

LinkedIn is particularly useful because it lets you connect directly with the hiring managers, talent scouts, recruiting specialists, or staffing specialists responsible for reviewing resumes, scheduling interviews, and developing hiring processes.

By emailing these professionals directly, you show genuine enthusiasm for the job. This proactive step can help push your resume from the bottom of the pile to the top. Building a solid network within the industry can lead to job opportunities that may never be advertised.

Embrace Modern Job Search Methods

Uploading your resume online is a necessary first step toward employment, and there’s no way around it. It’s 2025, and the security guard mindset needs to evolve. It’s time to embrace the new hiring process and stop calling me!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the security industry is evolving, and so should the job seekers within it. The old ways of job searching are becoming obsolete. By embracing modern technology and updating their approach, security guards can find employment more effectively.

People need to adapt. It's crucial to recognize that the tools for success are already available. Job seekers in the security sector should learn to utilize these resources. Only then will they secure the job opportunities they seek.