For most security officers, the ability to be alert and to be aware of their surroundings will greatly enhance their chances for success and promotion. At every security post, a set of written post orders or instructions will guide you in terms of your daily responsibility. One of the basic functions of security personnel is to either monitor access to a facility or to actually grant access by opening of an entrance. This will require the officer to interact with visitors and employees daily, to be certain proper identification procedures are followed, and to ensure that property does not leave the facility without proper documentation. Usually, security officers’ responsibilities with regard to observing and reporting consist of the following:

Security personnel may often be compared to a referee or an umpire at a sporting event. No one has come to see the security officer perform his or her daily task. However, if something does not go right, rest assured the security officer (much like the umpire at a baseball game) will normally be in the middle of the action. Unfortunately, human nature will often cause people to do things they would normally not do, or perhaps some people act in a proper manner only because someone is watching their behavior. Like it or not, one important aspect of the role of a security officer is to serve as a deterrent to poor or improper behavior. The very fact an observant, well-respected security officer is on duty will normally prevent the theft of material, illegal use of alcohol and drugs, and otherwise inappropriate conduct. Security officers should recognize that being popular is not a goal. Being liked by people is also not a goal. Winning the respect of people is our goal! Being professional, polite, and tactful will greatly assist the security officer. Remind an employee of proper procedures with comments such as, “Sir, the security policies of the company prohibit you from entering this facility without a valid photo identification badge. Please wait here until I contact your supervisor”.

Another important aspect of the role of the security officer is to create “peace of mind” or a comfort level on the part of all persons who enter the facility serviced by a contract security officer. Security officers who are diligent in their tasks, polite to all with whom they come into contact, look neat in appearance, and have a positive mental outlook will create the peace of mind that is expected and appreciated by the client.

Security officers are expected to enhance and support the overall security program that has been implemented by the client. There is no opportunity in our job description to disagree with or comment on a particular procedure. In addition, a security officer should never apologize for requesting compliance with a security policy. By saying to someone, “I’m sorry, but I need to see your identification badge before you enter,” you convey the impression that you do not really know what you are doing or really do not want to enforce the requirement. The role of a security officer is to support and adhere to the policies and procedures of the client’s program. Disagreeing or offering opinions that are not solicited or warranted is considered unprofessional and detracts from the role of all security personnel.

The surest way to success in your chosen field is to project a positive image and to establish good relationships with everyone with whom you come into contact. Being polite, friendly, and helpful is a positive element required for success. Besides visual appearance, the tone of one’s voice and the willingness to offer a greeting of “Good morning” or “May I help you?” creates a positive impression in the minds of the listener. To improve your chances of success as a security officer, follow these simple guidelines:

Often, the clients of security companies misunderstand the role of security officers. Hopefully, the misunderstanding does not exist with the person to whom security reports at a facility. Employees may occasionally attempt to embarrass or trick security officers by using a fake employee identification badge or by criticizing security when a theft occurs. An employee who has just had their car stolen will often vent their frustration towards security personnel who were never in a position to prevent or report the theft. The fact the person may have owned one of the most popular vehicles stolen by thieves or that the work site is in a high-crime area is of no consequence at the time of the theft. At these times, security officers should be polite and not engage in too much conversation with the frustrated or annoyed individual. Never make comments such as, “Well, I knew that would happen sooner or later,” or anything similar. At these times, clients often believe security has been ineffective. In reality, there is only so much any person can do to prevent crime.

The uniform of the security officer is the single greatest first impression a person sees when meeting the officer (Figure 5.1). A sloppy, dirty uniform cannot convey a positive impression. Uniforms should always be clean and pressed. At least two sets of uniforms are supplied by most contract agencies. Usually, more uniforms are issued once the officer has demonstrated a willingness and ability to work consistently. While not being used, uniforms should be carefully stored, either neatly folded or hung on hangers. A lint brush can also be used to clean the uniform prior to leaving for work. Pet hair (even if from a vehicle) can make an otherwise neat uniform unsightly. Shoes or boots should be clean and polished. In addition, all badges and hats worn by officers should also be cleaned and presentable.

As discussed previously, improper or unethical behavior severely hampers the ability of the security officer to perform their tasks successfully. In addition, improper behavior by one security officer impacts the entire security organization. When a security officer believes or suspects a fellow officer is involved in conduct detrimental to the contract company or client, they have a duty to report it. This includes theft, destruction of property, continuing to arrive late for work, walking off post without permission, telephone abuse, sexual harassment or misconduct, sleeping on duty, or using alcohol or drugs on duty.

If a contest were held throughout the United States to determine the most ridiculous nonsecurity duty performed by security officers, the list would be long and humorous. There may be reasons or past history as to why security is responsible for certain duties. These duties may include the following: