Finding the right security guards can make all the difference in keeping your clients safe and their properties secure. A top-notch team means your clients will enjoy peace of mind knowing they are protected around the clock.

To help you attract and hire the best security professionals, we’ve compiled 15 practical tips to use in your security guard recruitment efforts. These insights will guide you through building a reliable and effective security team.

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1. Define job requirements and qualifications

Spell out exactly what you need in a guard. This helps you find the right people who can handle the job from day one. 

Begin by detailing the specific skills, certifications, and experience required for the role. You should cover both physical and mental attributes, such as handling high-pressure situations and maintaining physical fitness.

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2. Create a compelling job description

Make your job descriptions clear and attractive. Highlight what the job involves, what skills are needed, and why working with you is great. Mention any chances for moving up in the company.

Highlighting these aspects can set your company apart from others in the market, attracting top-tier candidates. A well-crafted job description informs and engages potential hires, making your company a standout choice.

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3. Use multiple security guard recruitment channels

Using different ways to post your job ads helps you find the best candidates. To maximize visibility, spread the word on popular job boards like Indeed, Monster, and Glassdoor. Use your company's social media platforms to share these openings and reach the right people.

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4. Network within the industry

Go to security industry events and job fairs to meet potential candidates face-to-face. It may also be beneficial to join professional associations and participate in online forums related to security. This way, you can find experienced pros who are looking for new opportunities.

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5. Leverage employee referrals

Ask your employees to refer good candidates and offer them bonuses for doing so. This speeds up hiring and brings in people who are likely to be a good fit.

Employee referrals often lead to high-quality hires, as your staff understands the company culture and can vouch for the candidates' abilities. The strategy may also foster a sense of involvement and belonging within your organization.

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6. Partner with local training schools

Work with security training schools and academies to find and train new talent directly from the source. Offering internships or work-study programs provides a unique opportunity to identify and train potential full-time employees early in their careers.

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7. Implement an online application system

Use an applicant tracking system (ATS) to streamline your hiring process and efficiently manage applications. A well-designed ATS makes applying easy and allows you to keep track of candidates. Doing so can help you find the best people faster.

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8. Screen applications thoroughly

Thanks to a well-planned screening process, only the most suitable candidates proceed to the next stages. 

Review resumes and cover letters to shortlist candidates who meet your specific criteria. Use pre-screening questionnaires to filter out unqualified applicants, saving valuable time during the interview process.

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9. Conduct comprehensive interviews

Prepare a set of standardized questions to consistently evaluate each candidate. There should be a fair and uniform assessment process.

During the interview, assess both technical skills and cultural fit to see if they match up well with your company’s values and expectations. A rigorous evaluation process helps select candidates who are competent and a great fit for your company culture.

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10. Perform background checks

Verify that the candidates meet your employment history, criminal records, and educational qualifications standards. Checking references is also important, as it helps validate the candidate’s professional conduct and reliability.

Follow these steps for a comprehensive understanding of the candidate’s background and reduce the risk of hiring someone unfit for the role.

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11. Administer skills and fitness tests

Test candidates on their physical fitness and relevant security skills to make certain they can handle the demands of the job. Include scenario-based assessments to evaluate their decision-making abilities in real-world situations. 

Performing these tests will provide a clear picture of how candidates perform under pressure and handle actual security challenges.

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12. Provide realistic job previews

Show candidates what the job is really like so they know what to expect and can decide if it's a good fit. Make sure to share the potential challenges and benefits of the role so candidates are fully aware of what the job entails. 

Providing an honest view of the job attracts individuals who are genuinely interested and well-prepared for the role.

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13. Offer competitive compensation and benefits

Offering competitive pay and benefits are likely to attract top talent while showing that you value your employees. Your salary and benefits package should be more enticing compared to industry standards.

Perks like health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off can make the position more appealing. Highlighting these advantages can differentiate your job offer, encourage high-quality candidates to join your team, and reduce churn.

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14. Implement a structured onboarding process

Provide good training and support to help new hires get up to speed and perform well. Effective training and support foster a confident and capable workforce, enhancing overall job performance.

Assigning mentors can help new employees integrate into the team and get up to speed quickly. Mentorship also creates a supportive environment where new hires can ask questions and receive guidance, leading to smoother transitions and higher retention rates.

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15. Retain top talent

Create a positive work environment where employees can feel valued and heard. This kind of environment encourages loyalty and positivity among your team members. When employees know they can rely on their employer for support, they are more likely to stay committed and perform at their best.

Continuous growth opportunities are just as important. Providing regular training, career advancement paths, and skill development programs will keep your best employees engaged and motivated. They will appreciate the investment in their future and be more inclined to stay with your company long-term.

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Take security operations to the next level with Belfry

As security guard recruitment improves and your client base grows, managing operations and keeping your security officers safe gets tougher. That’s where Belfry’s security operations management software comes into play.

Our all-in-one platform gives you the tools to simplify operations, boost officer safety, and deliver top-notch service to your clients, including:

• Scheduling tools: Belfry provides automated scheduling with smart recommendations to minimize unbilled overtime, assure compliance, and reduce no-shows.
• Real-time reporting and monitoring: Our platform increases officer accountability with a mobile app that tracks guard activity, simplifies guard tours, and streamlines reporting.
• Training and certification tracking: Belfry's system helps maintain records of guard training and certifications, ensuring that all personnel meet the necessary qualifications.
• Mobile app integration: Our mobile app enhances efficiency and connectivity, providing guards with easy access to schedules, reporting tools, and communication channels, which can be a key selling point in your job descriptions and during the onboarding process.

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