In the current challenging environment, finding and retaining reliable security guards can be a daunting task.
Recently, HiveWatch introduced a comprehensive guide to field resources and guarding relationships, but here are the highlights.
According to the Service Employees International Union, which is the largest private security officers' union in the country, the national annual turnover rate for security guards ranges from 100% to 300%. This high turnover can be attributed to various factors, including low wages and high risk associated with the job. Consequently, establishing solid relationships with your guards and other field resources is crucial for attracting and retaining top talent.
While guarding dates back to the Romans, many of the duties haven’t changed much since then (even though business needs have).
Today, security teams are increasingly asked to do more with less, while effective guards seem to be a scarce resource. Too often the true measure of a guard’s effectiveness only becomes apparent after an incident, and by then it may be too late!
For organizations that do not or cannot utilize guard services, there is still a need for someone to take charge of physical security on-site. In these cases, employees are often assigned security duties outside of their usual job scope, leading to reluctance and resistance.
Despite the different titles and duties, both guards and other field resources share the common goal of ensuring the safety and security of the organization. Therefore, effectively managing these resources becomes crucial. Motivating them, establishing clear expectations, and ensuring they are met requires a strategic blend of technology and people management.
Here are 10 effective strategies to build strong relationships with your field resources:
1) Motivate with intention
Recognize that guarding is often considered an entry-level position with historically low wages. Monetary incentives can be a great motivator for contracted guards, while in-house guards will value a clear path to career growth.
2) Communicate clearly
Communicate expectations by providing clear and concrete examples and practical tools. It's important to show, not just tell, to ensure that expectations are understood.
3) Set reasonable expectations
Avoid expecting unrealistic standards from your guards. Utilize Service Level Agreements (SLAs) guided by data when contracting guard services to ensure reasonable expectations.
4) Be inclusive
Foster a sense of belonging by including contracted guards in company events and initiatives.
5) Promote open dialogue
Designate a point person with whom field resources can speak candidly to address their day-to-day questions, scheduling concerns, and internal issues.
6) Provide training
Invest in additional training for all resources, focusing on areas such as situational awareness, negotiation, and communication to enhance effectiveness and retention.
7) Increase engagement
Recognize that many guards entering the workforce are Millenials and Gen Z who may require more stimulation to stay engaged. Consider allowing them to listen to music during their guard tours or gamifying their tasks to maintain motivation.
8) Manage with respect
Create a positive and productive environment by treating all resources with respect, regardless of whether they are third-party or in-house personnel.
9) Define boundaries
Ensure that each field resource understands their specific duties to prevent misunderstandings and unmet expectations. Clarity regarding responsibilities is essential to effective security management.
10) Educate internal teams
Build a collaborative environment by educating internal teams outside of security about the roles and responsibilities of field resources. Establishing clear boundaries and fostering mutual respect are key components of effective security management.
Effective security management hinges on understanding and managing field resources and guarding relationships.
"By recognizing the strengths and limitations of various field resources and implementing strategies to build strong relationships with security personnel, organizations can optimize their security programs and enhance their overall resilience against potential security threats."
Investing in clear communication, training, and engagement while fostering a culture of inclusivity and support can lead to a more effective and sustainable security strategy.
Ready for a full guide to field resources and guarding relationships? Check out our latest ebook.
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