The modern security guard
Developments in the security industry are happening at a rapid pace. Whereas security guards used to perform solely as security guards, this is no longer the case today. Today’s security guards have broader training and are highly motivated to take on more responsibilities than just standard security duties. On the one hand, this trend is driven by organizations’ ongoing quest to use a security guard’s paid hours as efficiently as possible. On the other hand, performing other duties offers security guards a welcome change from routine security work and makes the role more appealing to some. In today’s job market, this is a key selling point.
Here, we will briefly discuss the (core) duties of security guards, the opportunities available regarding additional work, and how SERIS handles these matters.
CORE MISSION
Although security guards are capable of more than just providing security, this naturally remains the primary task for which they are deployed. The tasks that security guards can perform in addition to this core duty must therefore be closely aligned with it. An important consideration in this assessment is the answer to the question: Can the security guard immediately cease their current task as soon as deployment for the core task is required? If the answer is “yes,” then nothing stands in the way of exploring the possibilities, determining the additional tasks, and subsequently implementing them.
WHAT ARE THE OPTIONS?
At office locations, today’s security guards are primarily engaged in proactive security. This means that a large portion of their core duties has already been planned in advance and is well organized. This can be achieved through well-designed procedures or the use of technology, among other things. As a result, security guards are less tied to a fixed workstation, creating the opportunity to leave their station to welcome visitors and/or assist guests. It is also no problem at all to handle incoming and outgoing trucks at logistics locations, for example. Or consider a security guard who also handles (technical) facility management tasks in a shopping center? Imagine the possibilities of a security guard who is not only skilled in security but is also hospitable, proactive, service-oriented, and well-versed in administrative and technical matters?
HOW HOW DID THESE OPPORTUNITIES COME ABOUT?
Experience has taught us that change is generally achieved through collaboration. As a service provider, we understand and recognize that positive change is beneficial. Not only for our clients, who get more value for their money, but also for our security guards, who gain a job that offers them greater fulfillment and challenge. In addition, changes and expansions to job responsibilities also require the necessary training. In the context of sustainable employability, this is a major advantage for both the client and the employee.
SERIS' VISION AND ADDED VALUE
Let’s return to SERIS’s vision for a moment. The reason we strive to maintain an ongoing dialogue with our clients is that we want to consistently provide added value. We aim to pleasantly surprise our clients and deliver truly exceptional service. Service that isn’t just visible during the hours our hospitable and capable security guard is on site. But also service that involves truly thinking along with our clients and a constant focus on improvement. Our experience is that this results in highly satisfied clients who continue to work with us for the long term. In addition, this leads to satisfied employees who continue to develop and also remain with us for the long term.
In this way, SERIS serves as a value-added hub where satisfied clients and satisfied employees come together. We’d be happy to discuss how we can take the lead in exploring additional opportunities within your organization. And of course, we’ll be delighted to take on these new tasks with our team!
