A security guard career is always a virtual guarantee of steady employment for talented and experienced professionals, since private security is in greater demand now than ever before and shows no signs of slowing down its aggressive growth as an industry. There are many viable options for employment for security guards, each with unique aspects which must be considered carefully in order to succeed.
The scope of this article is to detail some of the possible job openings for active and aspiring security personnel. This essay will also help officers find positions which will get them to reach their vocational goals, both now and far into the future.
Preparing for a Security Guard Career
Many security officers are retired military or law enforcement personnel. This makes absolute sense, since these former career paths prepare people to become ideal candidates for the private security contracting sector. For guards without this previous work experience, doors to advancement may be difficult to open, particularly in high levels of the professional security industry. Luckily, there are specialized training programs which can prepare anyone to reach the upper echelon of the security contracting business.
Likewise, former experience in a related industry is very valuable. Some of the best possible work expertise in related fields includes bail bonds work, corrections, private investigation and process service. A college degree or certificate in law, criminal justice or public safety is another tool which can help a guard to get ahead in this highly competitive profession.
Security Guard Job Path
Basic security guard jobs are easy to find, but do not usually provide much in the way of benefits or compensation. Of course, there are some exceptions to this rule and everyone has their on personal definition of fair compensation anyway.
Armed guards are a step up the vocational ladder and their pay reflects this.
Paramilitary contractors are several more steps up and these mercenaries typically earn incredible pay, although they do often work in highly stressful and hazardous conditions.
Bodyguards are also highly compensated security operatives who can become as famous as their clients, in rare instances.
Finally, security consultants and business owners can become truly rich from their business exploits. As in many industries, working for oneself is often the path to success, while working a traditional job will only make the employee a living, while helping to make their boss wealthy.
Security Guard Career Considerations
Whenever possible, I recommend that qualified and experienced guards should always strive to reach the next level up, when considering career choices. If you have reached a ceiling in your advancement, but still have the drive to get ahead, then go the obvious route and open you own company. Sure, the work will be tough and the hours long, but the rewards can be beyond your most ambitious dreams, particularly over the long-term.
Just remember that whatever path you choose in the private security sector, there is no substitute for quality experience, well-balanced skills and a mind full of relevant knowledge. These attributes are surely the best ways to ensure success in whatever job duties you are currently performing.