How to Talk to a Security Guard Company Recruiter
Present Yourself Professionally
First impressions matter enormously in security work. Whether you're meeting in person, talking on the phone, or video calling, dress professionally and arrive on time (or log in a few minutes early). Security guards are expected to represent their company professionally, and recruiters are assessing whether you fit that image from the moment they meet you.
Emphasize Reliability and Trustworthiness
Security companies need guards they can count on to show up for every shift, stay alert, and handle sensitive situations appropriately. Be ready to discuss your work history in terms of dependability—mention perfect attendance records, instances where you covered emergency shifts, or times you've been entrusted with important responsibilities. If you have a clean background, criminal record, and driving record, these are significant assets worth mentioning.
Highlight Relevant Experience
Even if you've never worked in security, you likely have transferable skills. Military and law enforcement experience is obviously relevant, but so is customer service, loss prevention, hospitality, or any role requiring attention to detail and conflict resolution. Explain how your previous work has prepared you to observe, report, and respond to security concerns.
Discuss Your Licensing and Certifications
Many states require security guards to hold specific licenses. If you already have your guard card, state it clearly. If you don't, show that you understand the requirements and are ready to complete the necessary training. Certifications in CPR, first aid, or defensive tactics are valuable additions that set you apart from other candidates.
Show You Understand the Role
Security guard work involves long hours, overnight shifts, weekends, and sometimes challenging conditions. Demonstrate that you understand these realities and are prepared for them. If you're willing to work nights, holidays, or rotating shifts, make that clear, flexibility is highly valued. Discuss your ability to stay alert during quiet periods and remain calm during incidents.
Prepare for Scenario Questions
Recruiters often ask how you'd handle specific situations: an unauthorized person trying to enter a building, a medical emergency, a suspicious package, or a conflict between visitors. Think through these scenarios beforehand. Good answers show you'd follow protocol, stay calm, communicate clearly, and prioritize safety while contacting the appropriate authorities.
Ask About Training and Advancement
Show ambition by asking about the company's training programs, different types of sites you might work at, and opportunities for advancement. Some guards move into supervisor roles, specialized positions like armed security, or corporate security management. Asking about these paths shows you're thinking long-term.
Be Honest About Your Availability
Security companies often need coverage across multiple shifts and sites. Be upfront about when you can work, but also be as flexible as possible. If you're only available certain days or times, say so clearly, it's better than accepting shifts you can't fulfill. However, the more availability you offer, especially for less desirable shifts, the more attractive you become as a candidate.
Address Any Concerns Head-On
If there's anything in your background that might come up, a gap in employment, a past issue that's been resolved, or limited experience, address it directly with a brief explanation of what you learned and how you've moved forward. Honesty and accountability go further than trying to hide potential red flags.
Follow Up Appropriately
After your conversation, send a brief thank-you message reiterating your interest and availability. Keep it simple and professional. If the recruiter said they'd contact you within a certain timeframe and you haven't heard back, a polite follow-up call or email shows continued interest without being pushy.
Security guard work is about being vigilant, dependable, and professional. Show the recruiter you embody these qualities from your first conversation, and you'll significantly improve your chances of landing the position.