Threats to your property never take a night off. In fact, since criminals prefer to work without witnesses, they are more likely to target your neighborhood or business when it’s dark, so it makes sense to increase your security at night. But what does it take to be successful in the role of a night guard security officer? Here are some of the qualities that you should look for in potential candidates.
Well-Trained
Success as a night security officer begins with having the right training. A night security guard’s job focuses on patrolling their assigned premises, as opposed to a day guard’s job of focusing on human activities. They also need to patrol in the dark, and often work alone or with a limited crew.
This means that training for night guard duties requires special attention to certain distinct skills or traits. Night officers have to be attuned to seeking out or noticing out sounds, signs, and circumstances that indicate when something is not as it should be on the properties they patrol. Night guards also have to be comfortable working alone and at odd hours. Because there are many complex aspects that go into providing night guards with the right training, it is not surprising that many firms hire third-party security officers rather than try to train their own.
Prepared
Organizational skills and knowing what tools are necessary for the job are keys to success in any security guard’s line of work. Night guards often carry different equipment: a flashlight, of course, is especially important for night patrols. And, because they often work when no one else is around, they have to rely on radio communications devices so that assistance can be summoned when needed. For armed security guards, firearms training is essential. But even more than weapons training, armed guards need to remain calm under very tense situations, and have the presence of mind to respond appropriately when it may be hard to see what’s going on.
Alert
Working security on the night shift can involve long periods of relative inactivity. However, it is essential that a security guard maintain a high level of awareness even during lulls in the job. After months of routine patrols, a good night guard will still be ready to respond immediately and appropriately whenever a situation calls for action.
Observant
One crucial aspect of a security officer’s job is providing accurate reports of what they encounter over the course of their duties. A keen eye for detail is necessary for success in handling this responsibility. You want to hire guards who are trained to observe and remember events, persons, and situations in great detail. The information provided in their reports can be crucial in any subsequent investigation or proceeding.
Trustworthy
Overnight security guards are often expected to keep your premises secure during times when they’re under minimal supervision. This makes hiring security officers you can trust absolutely essential. Your professional guards should take the security of your property as seriously as you do.
Fit
Working in security is a physically demanding job in many regards. Having the fitness to maintain a constant patrol is an absolute must. While security guards are trained to de-escalate situations first, they also need to be fit enough to handle any physical altercations or pursuits that occur on your property.
Assertive
A good security guard has strong leadership skills and knows how to take charge of a situation. Most guards work independently at some point during their duties, but sometimes they must coordinate with other guards or lead a group. Security officers must also be prepared to take a leadership role in an emergency situation and not be intimidated in the face of problems or crises.
When you hire GoJoe Patrol to handle your security needs, you’ll get security officers who embody all of these qualities and more. Get in touch with GoJoe Patrol today to learn more about how our night security guards can give you peace of mind for your premises.
