An intense training regime is required to obtain a security guard license followed by annual continuing education courses.

One of the areas of study is community relations. Interacting with the public is often a big part of a security guard’s job. It is critical that guards present a professional appearance and presence, follow a prescribed code of conduct and respond to situations appropriately.

Some of the issues covered in the public relations component of security guard training include:

–Recognizing and avoiding gender and racial harassment and discrimination

–Understanding and developing respect of others and developing a proper code of conduct

–Applying appropriate verbal skills during crisis intervention

–Understanding diversity

Security guards often make the first official interaction with the public at sporting and cultural events and at check-in/reception desks of large office/medical buildings. The public seeks out security guards to assist them with their security (and even non-security) needs. It’s critical that guards are trained to treat everyone with respect while doing their job to keep all secure.