Alliance Training & Testing is a Veteran Led 5 Star rated trade school that specializes in training students for the Tennessee Armed and Unarmed Security Guard Officer License Guard Card in Nashville, TN. We deliver TN Armed and Unarmed Security Guard Officer License job training online and from our training center located at 315 Deaderick St #125 Nashville, TN 37238.
Our Mission is to provide professional, efficient, and cost-effective training solutions for our customers and partners through continuous improvement driven by integrity, teamwork, and innovation.
Our vision is to be the most preferred and most trusted provider of training and compliance resources in Tennessee.
Our focus is on delivering our services reliably, consistently, and professionally.
Security guards play a vital role in protecting people and property from harm. They work in various settings, including schools, hospitals, businesses, and government buildings.
To be effective, security guards need to be well-trained in a variety of areas, including:
Physical security: Includes skills such as patrolling, access control, and crowd control.
Communication skills: Security guards must communicate effectively with the public, law enforcement, and other security personnel.
Legal issues: Security guards must be familiar with the laws governing their work, including those regarding the use of force and the protection of civil rights.
Ethics: Security guards are often in positions of trust, so they must be ethical and professional.
There are several benefits to providing security guard training, including:
Improved safety: Well-trained security guards can better protect people and property from harm.
Reduced liability: Employers who provide security guard training can reduce their liability in the event of a security incident.
Increased productivity: Well-trained security guards can help to create a safe and productive work environment.
Enhanced customer service: Security guards who are well-trained in customer service can help to create a positive experience for visitors and customers.
Professional development: Security guard training can help security guards to develop their skills and knowledge and to advance their careers.
Security guard training is a significant investment that can improve safety, reduce liability, and enhance customer service. Employers who provide security guard training can reap the benefits of a well-trained security team. Contact Us Today for Assistance!
About Alliance Training and Testing – The Security School of Choice in Tennessee
At Alliance Training and Testing, seasoned industry professionals deliver top-tier security guard training for the entire State of Tennessee. Opting for Alliance Training and Testing means selecting unparalleled expertise in the field.
The security guard training trend reflects the increasing demand for well-trained, professional security personnel. As society becomes complex and security threats evolve, organizations recognize the need for a skilled and vigilant workforce to ensure the safety of their assets and personnel.
Several key factors drive this trend.
Heightened Security Concerns:
The rising incidence of crime, terrorism, and cyber-attacks has heightened security concerns across various sectors. Organizations invest in robust security measures to mitigate risks and protect their operations. Comprehensive training for security guards is essential to equip them with the knowledge and skills to respond effectively to security incidents.
Compliance:
One key driver of the security guard training trend is regulatory compliance. Governments and regulatory bodies are imposing stricter security regulations, making it mandatory for organizations to adhere to specific security standards. This includes training and certification of security guards, ensuring their competency and readiness.
Advancements in Technology:
Technological advancements in the security industry have introduced sophisticated surveillance systems, access control mechanisms, and other security solutions. Security guards require specialized training to operate and maintain these technologies effectively and efficiently.
Expectations:
Customer and public expectations play a significant role in shaping the security guard training trend. In today's world, safety and security are paramount. Customers and the public expect organizations to prioritize these aspects. By providing well-trained security guards, organizations not only enhance the customer experience but also instill confidence in stakeholders, thereby meeting these expectations.
These trends manifest in security guard training in several ways.
Increased Demand for Specialized Training Programs:
Organizations seek specialized training programs specialized training programs tailored to their security needs. These programs cover various aspects, including physical security, access control, surveillance, communication, and legal frameworks.
Integration of Technology:
Training programs incorporate the latest security technologies, such as CCTV cameras, biometric systems, and intrusion detection systems. Guards are trained to operate and monitor these systems effectively.
Focus on Soft Skills:
In addition to technical skills, training programs emphasize soft skills, such as customer service, communication, and conflict resolution. Security guards are expected to interact professionally and empathetically with stakeholders.
Continuous Learning:
Security guard training is viewed as an ongoing process. Organizations implement regular refresher courses and workshops to ensure guards stay up-to-date with evolving security threats and best practices.
The security guard training trends benefit organizations and security guards themselves. Well-trained security guards provide higher protection, reduce security risks, enhance customer satisfaction, and contribute to a safer and more secure environment.
Working as a private security guard in a place that serves alcohol can be challenging, especially when dealing with drunk and hostile customers. Here are ten effective de-escalation strategies to help you manage these situations safely and professionally:
1. Stay Calm and Professional:
Maintaining a calm and professional demeanor is crucial, even in the face of an agitated or aggressive customer. This sets a positive tone for the interaction and can help defuse the situation. Maintaining composure demonstrates empathy and understanding, making customers feel heard and respected. A professional demeanor instills confidence and trust, making customers more receptive to solutions. Remaining calm lets you think clearly and respond thoughtfully, avoiding further escalation. Staying professional helps uphold the organization's reputation and fosters a positive customer experience. It sets a precedent for respectful communication and encourages customers to adopt a similar approach.
2. Listen Actively:
Listen to the customer's concerns and try to understand their perspective. Show empathy and understanding by using phrases like "I understand," "I can see why you're upset," or "I'm here to help." Avoid interrupting the customer or making assumptions about their needs. Ask open-ended questions to encourage the customer to share more information. Pay attention to verbal and non-verbal cues, such as body language and tone of voice. Summarize what the customer has said to show that you've been listening and to ensure that you've understood them correctly.
3. Use Empathy:
Show empathy and understanding towards the customer's feelings. Listen to the customer's concerns and try to understand their perspective. This will help you build a rapport with the customer and make them feel heard and valued. Use phrases that express empathy and understanding, such as "I understand how you feel" or "I can imagine how frustrating that must be." Avoid using jargon or technical terms that the customer may not understand. Be patient and allow the customer to express their concerns fully. Don't interrupt or rush them. If the customer becomes emotional, remain calm and respectful. Offer your support and tell them you are there to help.
4. Use Non-Verbal Communication:
Non-verbal communication is essential to create a positive impression and convey your message effectively. Making eye contact shows that you are engaged, attentive, and confident. Aim for 60-70% eye contact during a conversation. Use open body language. Keep your body relaxed and open, with your arms uncrossed and your shoulders back. This indicates that you are open to communication and receptive to what the other person says. Keep a safe distance. Maintain a comfortable and respectful distance from the other person. This will help put them at ease and create a sense of personal space.
5. Avoid Arguing or Debating:
Refrain from arguing or debating with the customer, as it can escalate the situation. Listen attentively to their concerns and try to understand their perspective. Acknowledge their feelings and show empathy. Focus on finding a mutually agreeable solution rather than trying to prove who is right or wrong. If the customer becomes agitated or unreasonable, move people to a safer area while gaining a better tactical position and inform fellow security team members.
6. Offer Alternatives:
Provide options or solutions to address customer concerns. Present a variety of choices that suit different needs, preferences, and budgets. Explain the pros and cons of each alternative to help the customer make an informed decision. Be open to customization and tailoring solutions to meet specific requirements. Offer upgrades or add-ons to enhance the value of the proposed alternatives. Provide a clear comparison of the other options to enable easy decision-making. Consider the customer's feedback and incorporate their suggestions into the proposed alternatives. Remain flexible and willing to adjust to different options based on changing circumstances. Provide additional information or resources to support the customer's evaluation of the possibilities. Maintain a positive and solution-oriented approach throughout the process.
7. Set Clear Boundaries:
Politely but firmly set boundaries and explain the consequences of inappropriate behavior. This can be done verbally, calmly, and respectfully. Remember that an escalated person can need up to five times the distance compared to a casual encounter with a stranger. You should give them more space and avoid sudden movements or gestures. If the person does not respect your boundaries, you should take further action, such as asking them to leave or calling the police. It's important to remember that setting boundaries is not about being rude or dismissive but protecting yourself and others from harm. By setting clear boundaries, you can help to create a safe and respectful environment for everyone. Some examples of clear boundaries you can set include: You are not tolerating verbal or physical abuse. You are not allowing people to touch you without your consent, not allowing people to make you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, and not allowing people to enter your personal space without your permission. You are not allowing people to make offensive or discriminatory remarks towards bystanders and other customers; however, do not take the insults hurled at you by a drunk or hostile person personally.
8. Assess the Situation:
Security guards must first assess the severity of the situation. If there is a risk of physical harm, property damage, or a threat to public safety, immediate action is necessary. Security guards play a crucial role in maintaining order and ensuring the safety of individuals and property. When faced with an emergency, security guards must assess the situation promptly and take appropriate action. The first step involves evaluating the severity of the problem. Here are some key factors that security guards should consider during their assessment:
Risk of Physical Harm:
Determine if there is an immediate threat of physical harm to individuals. Assess the number of individuals involved and their proximity to the potential danger. Evaluate the potential for escalation and the presence of weapons.
Threat to Public Safety:
Evaluate the potential for the situation to affect the public's safety. Assess whether the problem could lead to panic, confusion, or a disruption of everyday activities. Determine if there is a need to evacuate or secure the area.
Immediate Danger:
If there is an immediate threat to life or property, security guards must take immediate action to mitigate the risk. This may involve calling for backup, contacting law enforcement, or physically intervening to prevent harm. The level of force should be equal to or only slightly more significant than the aggressor's. During physical altercations, continue to use verbal de-escalation commands throughout the process, including, "Stop hurting me!", "Stop!" or "Leave!" or emphasizers such as "Now!" or "Quit!"
Security officers must intervene when unnecessary or excessive force is being used. Always value the sanctity of human life, and remember that the person is someone's son, daughter, aunt, uncle, sister, brother, dad, or mom. Consider the optics: is the person a juvenile trying to use a fake ID, an older frail person in a bad mood from the heat, or a petite female? How would your actions look on a camera recording played back as the observer? You can count on the fact that witnesses will share multiple incident recordings on every available social media platform. You will be judged on your actions long before a criminal or civil trial begins.
Ongoing Situation:
In situations that are not immediately life-threatening, security guards should assess the potential for the problem to escalate or become prolonged. They should consider the need for additional resources, such as extra security personnel, medical assistance, or technical support.
Environmental Factors:
Consider environmental factors that may affect the situation, such as weather conditions, lighting, or terrain. Evaluate how these factors might impact security guards' ability to respond effectively. In general, people become escalated in higher temperatures during the warmer months.
Available Resources:
Assess the resources available to security guards, including staffing, equipment, and communication systems. Determine if additional resources are needed to manage the situation effectively. Based on their assessment, security guards can develop a plan of action and take the necessary steps to mitigate risks, protect individuals and property, and ensure public safety.
9. Involve Management or Law Enforcement:
When a security guard encounters a problem beyond their control or becomes dangerous, involving management or law enforcement is crucial. Security guards should promptly communicate the situation to their superiors or management. Providing a clear and concise report of the incident, including details such as the nature of the threat, the number of individuals involved, and any potential weapons, is essential.
Request Assistance:
Management can decide the appropriate action, such as evacuating the premises or contacting law enforcement. They can also provide additional resources, such as extra security personnel or equipment, to assist in managing the situation.
Law Enforcement Involvement:
In cases where the situation poses a significant threat to public safety or involves criminal activity, security guards should contact law enforcement immediately. Providing accurate information to law enforcement officers is crucial for a swift and effective response.
Coordination with Law Enforcement:
Security guards should work closely with law enforcement officers to provide necessary assistance, such as securing the scene, controlling access to the area, and identifying potential witnesses.
Documentation:
Security guards should maintain detailed records of the incident, including the time, date, nature of the threat, actions taken, and relevant observations. This documentation is crucial for future reference and potential legal proceedings. Record the incident, including the customer's behavior and any actions taken. Security Incident Report: Time and date of the incident. Location of the incident. Description of the incident, including the nature of the threat and the customer's behavior. Actions taken by the security guard. Any relevant observations, such as the appearance of the perpetrator. Any relevant observations, such as the customer's demeanor. Names and contact information of any witnesses. Any medical treatment provided. Any damage to the property.
Evidence Collection:
Recordings from onsite witnesses' cellular phones and devices; recordings from CCTV interior and exterior cameras; related signage, such as "No Trespassing" or "Security Cameras in Use" signs; and other relevant evidence.
10. Post-Incident Follow-Up:
Security guards must thoroughly review the incident with management after the situation has been resolved. This review serves multiple purposes and helps identify areas for improvement in security measures, training, and response protocols.
Root Cause Analysis:
The review process should involve a comprehensive root cause analysis to identify the factors contributing to the incident. This analysis helps determine whether human error, protocol failures, or other vulnerabilities caused the incident.
Identification of Areas for Improvement:
Based on the root cause analysis, the security team can identify areas where security measures, training, and response protocols can be improved. This may involve updating security policies, enhancing employee education, or implementing new technologies.
Evaluation of Security Measures:
The review also provides an opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of existing security measures. This includes assessing the adequacy of security personnel, surveillance systems, access control systems, and other security infrastructure.
Communication with Management:
The security team should communicate their findings and recommendations to management. This helps ensure that appropriate actions are taken to address any identified weaknesses and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Training and Education:
Based on the lessons learned from the incident, the security team may develop and deliver additional training programs to enhance security guards' and other employees' skills and knowledge.
Continuous Improvement:
The post-incident review process contributes to constantly improving security operations. Security teams can regularly review and evaluate incidents to identify trends and patterns and adjust their strategies and procedures. By conducting a thorough post-incident follow-up, security guards can help organizations learn from the past, strengthen their security posture, and create a safer environment for employees, customers, and visitors.
Seek Support and Training:
Regularly Attend De-escalation Training Programs. Invest in comprehensive de-escalation training programs for security personnel to enhance their skills and knowledge. Collaborate with experts in conflict resolution and de-escalation techniques to develop customized training modules that cater to your organization's specific needs. Regularly update and revise training materials to stay abreast of emerging trends and best practices in de-escalation.
Create a Supportive Work Environment:
Foster a supportive work environment where security personnel feel comfortable discussing challenges and seeking assistance from colleagues and supervisors. Implement policies and procedures that prioritize the safety and well-being of security personnel, including access to confidential counseling services and employee assistance programs. Recognize and reward security personnel who demonstrate exceptional de-escalation skills and contribute to a positive and safe workplace.
Provide Ongoing Performance Feedback:
Regularly evaluate the performance of security personnel in managing conflict situations. Provide constructive feedback to help them identify areas for improvement and enhance their de-escalation skills. Use performance evaluations to reinforce positive behaviors and encourage continuous professional development.
Monitor and Track Incidents:
Implement a system to monitor and track incidents involving security personnel. Analyze incident data to identify patterns and trends that may inform training and development needs. Use incident data to evaluate the effectiveness of de-escalation strategies and make necessary adjustments to improve outcomes.
Alliance Training and Testing Security Officer Training Programs
Alliance Training and Testing provides comprehensive online training programs for security officers in Tennessee. To be effective, businesses should reinforce these licensing and certification programs with clear policies, site-specific standards, regular coaching and feedback on daily performance, emergency protocols, ongoing practice and drills, hands-on training exercises, and external audits and reviews. Commit to perfecting your security program through ongoing training and on-the-spot corrections to make the successful outcome more predictable. Meet the statutory legal requirements and stay compliant in Tennessee with our online license and certification training programs, including:
Prepares individuals to become licensed unarmed security officers in Tennessee. Fully compliant with the requirements set forth by the State of Tennessee Private Protective Services.
This certification enables security officers to work at commercial establishments with permits or licenses from the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission or Beer Board. It includes de-escalation techniques, safe restraint techniques, and CPR First Aid Training. Tennessee Private Protective Services fully approves this program.
Equips individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to renew their unarmed security license in Tennessee. Fully approved by the State of Tennessee Private Protective Services.
Alliance Training and Testing is the Security School of Choice in Tennessee.
Alliance Training and Testing is committed to providing our customers with the highest quality security training services. We believe quality is essential to our success and constantly strive to improve our processes and procedures.
Our quality management system ensures that our security license training and certification programs meet or exceed our customers' expectations. Our quality management system is based on the following principles.
Customer Focus
We are committed to understanding our customer's unique needs and providing the highest quality security training solutions that best meet them.
Leadership
We are committed to providing leadership and direction for our quality management system. We believe everyone in our organization has a role in ensuring quality.
Process Approach
We take a systematic approach to identifying, understanding, and managing our processes. We are committed to continuous improvement of our quality management system.
Evidence-Based Decision-Making
We base our decisions on facts and data.
Mutually Beneficial Relationships with Suppliers:
We build mutually beneficial relationships with our suppliers to ensure we have the resources to provide quality armed and unarmed security training services.
Here are some of the ways that we ensure quality
Our instructors speak from a position of authority in the security training industry. We use only qualified security instructors who have extensive experience in the subject matter they are teaching.
Our training materials are up-to-date and accurate. Our license and certification training materials have been adopted as the standard for the State of Tennessee; we continually change our security training programs to comply with the laws. We provide additional free training resources to support our customers' journey to becoming licensed security guards.
We provide our customers with various online and in-person security officer training options to meet their needs. We expand our offerings through mutually beneficial partnerships with organizations.
We offer comprehensive resources to help our customers get the most out of our training and testing services and discounted training options to get the most for their money.
If you are looking for a security license training provider committed to quality, contact Alliance Training and Testing today.
We are proud of our commitment to quality, and we believe that it is one of the things that sets us apart from our competitors. We are confident that our customers will be satisfied with the quality of our security license training services.
We are confident that our commitment to quality will help us to continue to be the leading provider of Tennessee security guard training services in the industry.
If so, you need to get the right training. Alliance Training and Testing is the best place to get your security guard training in Tennessee.
We offer a variety of training courses to fit your needs, whether you want to become an unarmed or armed security guard. Our courses are comprehensive and cover everything you need to know to be successful in the security industry.
We also offer online and in-class training options, so you can find the format that works best for you. And our prices are affordable, so you can get the training you need without breaking the bank.
A security guard/officer is an individual employed by a contract security company or a proprietary security organization to protect persons and/or property from criminal activities.
Alliance Training and Testing LLC place major emphasis on successfully preparing our students for challenging careers in the security field. Our modern and practical approach to education provides our graduates with the necessary skills essential to obtain responsible unarmed security positions in business and industry. Our exceptional unarmed security training curriculum exceeds the State of Tennessee Requirements by also incorporating The Private Security Officer Selection and Training Guidelines established by ASIS International, the preeminent organization for security professionals.
Course Cost $30
Course Description
This segment examines the use of force continuum and basic de-escalation techniques as well as the legal powers and limitations of a security guard/officer.
Course Learning Objective & Suggested Audience
The objective of this course is to train individuals to renew an unarmed security license in the State of Tennessee.
This course is fully approved by the State of Tennessee Private Protective Services and satisfies all requirements to renew an Unarmed Security License in the State of Tennessee.
This course is for anyone interested in Renewing an Unarmed Security Guard License in the State of Tennessee.
Course Prerequisites
Each Student Must:
Have a Current Tennessee Unarmed Security Guard License that is Not More than 90 Days Past the Expiration Date. If your license is 90 Days Past the Expiration Date you will need to complete the 4-Hour General Training for Unarmed Security License.
Be at least 18 years of age for registration as an unarmed security guard.
Be a citizen of the United States or a resident alien.
Not have been declared by any court of competent jurisdiction incompetent by reason of a mental defect or disease unless a court of competent jurisdiction has since declared the applicant competent.
Not be suffering from habitual drunkenness or narcotics addiction or dependence.
Not having any disability that, in the opinion of the commissioner, prevents the applicant from performing the duties of a security guard/officer.
Be of good moral character.
If convicted in any jurisdiction of any of the crimes listed in this subdivision (4), have completed serving sentence or court-ordered probation at least five (5) years prior to application. Conviction of the following crimes shall disqualify an applicant, subject to the conditions stated in this section:
(A) Any felony; or
(B) Any misdemeanor involving:
(i) Shooting a firearm or other weapon;
(ii) Shoplifting;
(iii) Assault and battery or other act of violence against persons or property;
(iv) Crimes involving the sale, manufacture or distribution of controlled substances, controlled
substance analogues, drugs or narcotics;
(v) Theft of property; or
(vi) Theft of services;
Course Schedule | Duration | Location
Course Schedule:
This course is available on demand. On-demand availability provides students the ability to complete the course on their schedule and at their pace. Students may start and stop at any time and as often as necessary to accommodate their schedule; students may start the course on one device and continue on another.
Course Duration:
The entire course, including progress quizzes, and the 50-question final exam, is designed to be completed in 2.5 - 3 hours.
To meet attendance requirements, participants must entirely review each training module and complete all required course quizzes and the course final examination. Students must view each video without manipulation, fast-forwarding, or skipping forward. Students must successfully review each video module and complete the related progress quiz with a score of < 70% in order to proceed to the next training module.
Course Completion:
The mandatory completion/duration period for this course is 30 days from the registration date. After 30 days, access will be removed. Participants will have three attempts to pass the final examination.
Course Technical Requirements & Renewals
Course Technical Requirements:
This course is fully mobile responsive and can be completed with any phone, tablet, or computer with an internet connection.
Renewals:
Unarmed Guard/Officers renew registration every two (2) years and are required to complete two (2) hours of refresher training.
Standard of Conduct Agreement
If a student is found to have not been the person who completed all the coursework and / or final exam, the penalty may include but is not limited to, expulsion, permanent foreclosure from future classes, forfeiture of the course completion certificate, or all of the above in accordance with Alliance Training & Testing LLC Standard of Conduct.
If applicable, a letter notifying the student’s sponsoring company or organization of the individual's misconduct will be sent by Alliance Training & Testing LLC to the appropriate official.
All violations of our Standard of Conduct will be immediately reported directly to The State of Tennessee Private Protective Services.
Alliance Training & Testing LLC will formally request that the student’s unarmed license be immediately suspended and/or revoked for violating our Standard of Conduct.
By purchasing this course, you agree that completion of this entire course and the final examination will be an individual effort.
Purchase Agreement
By making this purchase, you affirm that you:
Can read, write, and comprehend Standard English text.
Can speak and comprehend the English Language.
Are eligible for Unarmed Security Officer/Guard training in accordance with the State of Tennessee Private Protective Services requirements.
Are eligible to work in the State of Tennessee and meet all Citizenship Eligibility Requirements in accordance with the State of Tennessee Private Protective Services requirements.
Unarmed students are required to pass a multiple-choice test scoring<70%, on the Unarmed Exam, therefore we make no guarantees of successful completion or licensure.
Alliance Training and Testing LLC is a privately owned and operated training center and we reserve the right to refuse to train or certify any student for any reason whatsoever.
Return Policy
This is a Non-Refundable Course Access Fee.
We do not offer Exchanges, Returns, or Refunds of any kind.
All sales of products and services are final. All online students will have access to complete the course for 30 days from the date of purchase.
It is the responsibility of the "Trainee" to submit the application to the State of Tennessee along with the applicable fee.
The capacity to evaluate a more comprehensive picture and draw conclusions is referred to as critical thinking. These traits are necessary if you want to examine security threats at work and make decisions based on logic rather than feelings. You can come up with timely decisiveness by using critical thinking. For instance, you usually make better decisions if you can swiftly assess behaviors and establish a potential security threat. You can choose patrol routes and locations and implement the best emergency response strategy using your critical thinking abilities.
Every day, security professionals responding to changing risks make choices based on lack of knowledge, incomplete information, and limited resources, as the case may be. It is, therefore, not surprising that Security Officers need effective decision-making, communication, and critical thinking as essentials for success in their professions.
Critical thinking: What is it?
Analyzing matters on the ground to thoroughly and cautiously address a topic the problem is the act of critical thinking. Having an eagle eye for events around your workplace, posing deliberate queries, and considering potential answers are all steps in the critical thinking process. For instance, if a security officer would have to settle a dispute between a staff member and a customer, utilizing critical thinking to determine the nature of the conflict and take the appropriate course of action.
Why are thinking skills essential for a security officer?
A security officer must have a sense of sound judgment and top-notch problem-solving skills, hence the need for critical thinking abilities to operate professionally and prevent matters from escalating. Imbibing thinking skills can immensely help the security officer with every problem that has to do with the organization's security. Employers of labor value and seek out officers that have high critical thinking abilities because of this.
Essential Critical thinking skills for security professionals
These are five critical thinking abilities that you can develop to assess challenging security issues, prepare for the unexpected, and avert costly errors.
·Question your underlying assumptions
Use a systematic attempt to enumerate and question the core assumptions or mental model that guide how you interpret the data or your reasoning. Highlight your working assumptions and then evaluate each one to see if it is:
1 - Sound (meaning that's how resources will be committed).
2 - Needs qualifications (meaning it might be true in most cases but not all).
3 - Lacks evidence (talking about your significant uncertainties).
As you get more knowledge or the situation changes, you modify the list and decide if your main uncertainties should be turned into collection demands or research subjects.
·Look for inconsistent data
The core of the scientific method (critical thinking) is to look for conflicting evidence and understand that you do not need to be a scientist conducting a controlled study to use it. Suppose you think the problem you have at hand looks puzzling. In that case, you can compare each side of the story to determine which information is disconfirming and how substantial it is in challenging conventional wisdom. Your brain will innately try to fit different pieces of data into a narrative or lead to assumptions as it concerns your workplace security. Critical thinking can save you a lot of time when sorting through complex possible options and numerous pieces of data. Suppose you have some information at odds with one of the hypotheses, such as a strong alibi. In that case, you can quickly rule that possibility out and turn your focus to additional information.
·Observation skill
Critical thinking begins with the ability to observe. A new issue can be promptly sensed and recognized by a security officer. Those adept at observing can also discern the potential causes of problems. Based on their prior experiences, they might even be able to anticipate when a problem might arise before it does. You can improve your observational skills by slowing down how quickly you receive information and paying more attention to your environment. To carefully consider what you're hearing or seeing, you may use mindfulness skills, journaling, or active listening inside and outside the workplace. Then, consider whether you see any patterns in behavior, transactions, or data that you and your team could find helpful to address and prevent security threats.
·Analysis
Analytical abilities become crucial once an issue has been discovered. Knowing which facts, data, or information are essential in analyzing and evaluating a situation is a prerequisite that every security guard must have. Analyzing frequently entails compiling unbiased research, checking the accuracy of the information with pertinent inquiries, and impartially evaluating the accounts of the parties involved. By accepting new challenges, you can develop your analytical abilities. To challenge yourself to think creatively and critically, you may, for instance, read a book about a subject you don't understand or enroll in an online math course. By doing this, you can develop the ability to understand new information and come to informed conclusions.
·Inference
Drawing speculation from the information you gather entails the skill of inference, which may call for technical or security-specific training or expertise. Making an inference denotes establishing conclusions based on scant knowledge. For instance, with the information, a security officer may have to wrap his head around the real cause of the issue between the staff and the customer. Focus on making reasonable assumptions rather than jumping to conclusions to develop your inference skills. This calls for taking time to search for and consider as many hints as possible thoroughly. Things such as complaints or reports could aid in evaluating a situation.
·Take into account alternate theories
Our brains are incredible machines that can "make sense" of situations based on limited information. Failing to take into account missing information and possible alternatives can send us down the wrong path, from which our inherent biases will prevent us from turning back. As a result of our deeply ingrained attitudes, we only see one possible outcome. Alternative explanations are simple to come up with by:
-Stating your primary hypothesis (or informed guess) and coming up with alternatives that cover the entire spectrum of possibilities, from the most improbable to the most likely,
-Using a framing framework similar to the journalist's "Who," "What," "How," "When," "Where," and "Why," break down your central hypothesis into its constituent parts, examine each critical aspect, and suggest potential combinations for consideration.
-Demonstrating the reverse of your lead hypothesis as a null hypothesis: something Must be or is not (i.e., guilty or not guilty). The NOT hypothesis is a catch-all for data that initially appear abnormal but eventually become more diagnostic.
·Pay attention to detail
Security professionals are taught to pay attention to many elements of their work. In unusual locations where open access is either regular or seldom, staff checking for public activities may detect trash, smoking butts, and empty bottles. Security is looking for a customer behaving unusually. Behaviors include being irrational, anxious, sweating profusely, persistently observing staff or authority figures instead of going about their job, or continually visiting the same spot. Additionally, they are searching for modifications to the property, such as opened or relocated gates, unsecured windows or doors, new cars, and unattended luggage or deliveries.
·Detecting prejudices
The most intelligent people struggle with this skill since biases can go undetected. So, security officers must be strong critical thinkers. They must make an effort to assess information objectively. They consider themselves a judge who wants to evaluate the arguments made by each side of an argument while also considering any biases the party may have. Learning how to put aside personal biases that may skew your judgment is as important—and arguably more challenging. Detecting prejudice is crucial to understanding how to view things from many perspectives.
·Choosing relevance
Finding the most crucial information for your attention when faced with a difficult situation is one of the hardest critical components of thinking critically. In many cases, you'll be given information that can appear significant. It might just be a small piece of knowledge, but it might be substantial. Setting a clear direction for what you're attempting to understand will help you improve your ability to judge relevance. Are you expected to come up with a solution? Should you be looking for trends? When you choose your ultimate objective, you can utilize that information to help you decide what is essential. Finding pertinent material might be challenging even when there is a precise aim. Making a concrete list of data items and ranking them according to importance is one way to combat this. When you break it down this way, you'll probably come up with a list with some vital information at the top and some at the bottom that you can probably ignore. From there, you can concentrate on the issues in the center of your list that are less distinct for additional analysis.
·Research
Independent research skills are essential when comparing viewpoints on a subject. The facts and data used to support an argument may be out of context or derived from dubious sources because statements are supposed to persuade. The best defense against this is verifiable proof; track down the information's source and assess it. Having a keen eye for unverified statements can be helpful. Does the individual making the argument provide their source for the data? If you ask or look for it yourself and there isn't a straightforward response, that should be a warning sign. It's crucial to understand that not all findings are reliable, so take the time to research the differences.
·Understand the context
Here's another critical thinking skill a security officer should possess, possibly the most important. It involves learning to pause and consider the overall situation. Putting yourself in the position of your customers, coworkers, and clients will help you learn how to "think beyond your pay" sooner. What do they require of me, you should consider. "How can I frame the problem to help?" Moreover, "Do I need to frame their inquiries in a wider context?" Simple framing approaches can help you, and your colleagues get and stay in sync, make coordinating as simple as possible, and prevent the need to reframe initiatives after they are well underway.
·Determine major drivers
Understanding the factors at work in a security scenario can help you foresee the future and lessen the likelihood that you will be entirely caught off guard. The range of potential outcomes can be captured by altering the weights of these significant drivers to produce plausible alternative scenarios. Observable and collectible, genuine, dependable, steady, and unique indicators can monitor which plan is taking shape. Uniqueness should be a goal, despite being challenging to achieve.
·Benefits of critical thinking in security
You can cope with the complete spectrum of security issues with these critical thinking skills, from insider and cyber threats to safeguarding sensitive installations. If you structure projects, avoid analytical pitfalls, encourage creative solutions, and present persuasive justifications for countermeasure enhancements, you may work more effectively, make better decisions, and be more prepared for the worst.
Conclusively, you can understand and respond to events using all the facts and information available if you can think critically as a security professional. Critical thinking at work typically entails digesting and arranging facts, statistics, and other information to define an issue and create workable answers.
Think about the above-mentioned critical thinking abilities, and start working on them.
Security guards must possess strong skills that will help boost their productivity, grow their expertise, and help them handle situations more efficiently. There are several fundamental skills that every security guard needs:
Communication
Teamwork
Leadership
Organization
Critical Thinking
Observation
You must understand why these skills are so crucial and how you can aid their development to become a much better guard. We dive deep into this article with the emphasis placed on observational skills.
Observation
Observation is the article's primary aim because this is one of the essential skills that any security guard should have. Observation and surveillance work together to form a fundamental building block of a security program. Some of the situations you would employ this skill include:
In the examination of any activities from the camera monitoring rooms.
The monitoring of any activities from the office building's front desk.
Watching for any questionable activities, especially at night.
Monitoring the behavior of individuals in event venues, especially when in crowds.
Observation requires you to pay keen attention to detail so you can notice any activity in the area you guard, no matter how small. Practical observation will make it much easier for you to see any potentially dangerous situation before it even swings into action.
Boosting Your Observation Skills
A security guard's observation skills can be their most potent attribute in detecting and deterring any potential dangers or risks in the area they're guarding. Surveying and observing any unusual occurrences that could threaten the security and safety of people and property in the area is an essential skill for any security guard.
When you are on duty, you need to engage all your senses to make detecting security hazards and risks much easier and quicker. Four of these five senses are a vital part of your surveillance skills. The senses include:
Sight: Using your eyes to watch unusual activities through visual perception.
Hearing: Using your ears to listen to unusual sounds in the area.
Smell: Using the nose to detect abnormal fragrances or odors in the environment.
Touch: Using the skin to feel surfaces, people, and packages and identifying potential risks or hazards.
Taste: Rarely used.
What Do You Need To Observe?
You should observe and note specific details as a security guard. These include:
Movement: This is possibly the most vital detail to watch because it can help you detect the possible intent of people and objects.
Silhouette: Identifiable or familiar figures can easily be spotted in the area you're guarding, so you should watch out for the unfamiliar ones.
Spacing: You should also watch out for any space between the object and the environment you guard.
Surfaces: Watch out for surfaces, and keep note of the contrasts and textures of any surfaces in the area.
Shadows: It is also essential to keep an eye on shadows, especially at night.
Shapes: Watch for irregular shapes and detect any objects by their profile.
As a security guard, it is also crucial that you can remember things in detail. You can practice and train to help in developing this skill. Ensure you involve every single piece of information involved in the story in detail.
Exercise Your Memory Muscle
One key factor in practical observation is to possess strong memory skills. Memorizing the normal condition makes it easier to observe and identify an abnormal state. To improve your memory skills, you first must understand how memory works. The human memory comprises three parts: the sensory register, short-term memory, and long-term memory.
The sensory register is where information is first stored. The initial processing of information occurs when you see, hear, smell, taste, or touch something.
Short-term memory is what you use to remember information for a short period. It can hold about seven pieces of information for about 20 seconds.
Long-term memory is where information is stored for a more extended time. It can hold an unlimited amount of information.
You can improve your memory skills by using different techniques to improve your observation skills. One method is called chunking. Chunking involves breaking down information into smaller pieces and then putting it back together again, focusing on one piece at a time. Practice makes perfect; the more someone practices recalling information, the better they will become at doing so. Finally, staying mentally active and engaged helps keep the mind sharp and improves memory skills.
Situational Awareness
Situational awareness is the perception of environmental elements and events regarding time or space, comprehending their meaning, and predicting their future status. In its most basic form, situational awareness is understanding what is occurring within the environment, the people, time, vehicles, and the potential threat those variables pose.
The Three Stages of Situational Awareness
Perception: Knowledge of the familiar sources of information available.
Comprehension: Be able to extract the information from the collected information.
Anticipation: Have the ability to anticipate how an incident will develop and evolve.
It is crucial for security guards to have proper situational awareness. Advanced situational awareness training aims to improve an individual's ability to predict potential threats and act accordingly. Situational awareness is more of a mindset than a skill. Ignorance of potential danger makes it unlikely that you will see the threat.
The Cooper Color Code
The United States Marine Jeff Cooper developed the four levels of alertness and focused on a correct combat mindset.
White - Unaware and unprepared to take action.
Most people spend much of their lives in this state of mind. If attacked in condition white, the only thing that may save you is the inadequacy of your attacker—if suddenly confronted. In contrast, your immediate reactions to this condition will probably be surprise and denial.
Yellow – Prepared, alert and relaxed.
The individual watches their surroundings in the Yellow stage and constantly assesses their situation. It's not that they cannot trust their surroundings, but the individual tends to be more vigilant.
Orange – Alert to probable danger and ready to take action.
A threat has been identified, and a solution is being formed. Orange has a severe drawback that the Yellow mentality does not. When determining the danger, the individual goes into a state of tunnel vision where they focus on the threat. This tunnel vision completely obscures any possible secondary threats from the individual's mind. In that lies its shortcoming; it would also be insanely exhausting to attempt an Orange state of awareness at all times.
Red – Action mode, focused on the emergency at hand.
A plan has been formed, a decision has been made, and the individual is dealing with the threat. This state is primal brain activity well within the flight or fight response. Adrenaline is in full swing, and individuals carry out incredible feats despite extraordinary circumstances. Red is where human beings carry out lethal action.
Black – Panic, and breakdown of physical and mental performance.
Another stage was added later, Black, defined as a complete shut down of the brain due to a system overload due to an excessively elevated heart rate or mental stimulus. A person in the Black cannot function in any fashion.
Documenting Observations
Noting any observations you make is very important. It allows you to quickly and easily recollect any vital thing you have noticed. When recording your observations, ensure you only put facts and methodically order them. Do not reflect any assumptions in your notes, so anyone that reads them will get access to only the facts. Avoid any assumptions in your notes because it can lead to a bias.
A fact is a detail that can be proven to have happened. In contrast, an assumption is interpreting a situation without specific proof.
As a security guard, you often need to record details of people and vehicles in the area you're guarding for incident reporting and investigation. There are several different methods to capture the valuable information you get about people and vehicles.
A quick and efficient method that you can use for recording details about people is the A to H method. You can do this in your security method, and it implies writing down these qualities about the people you notice:
Age (child, teenager, adult, senior citizen, etc.)
Build (either muscular, thin, fat, etc.)
Cloth (the outfit they wear, especially if there is anything unique about it)
Definitive features (scars, tattoos, piercings, etc.)
Elevation (the individual's height)
Face (shape of the face as well as facial features)
Gait (the way they walk, especially if they have a limp or unique movement)
Hair (this includes length, color, etc.)
Recording Details About Vehicles
There is a technique known as the "SCRIM" format to record details about vehicles, and it is easy for you to note important information about the vehicle. SCRIM stands for
S. Shape (the type of vehicle, whether a truck, SUV, sedan, etc.)
C. Color (the vehicle's color)
R. Registration (plate number, expiration month and year, State, and County)
I. Identity features (any unique features on the car like upgraded parts, a smoking exhaust, dents, scratches, etc.)
M. Make and model of the vehicle
Observation is more than simply paying attention to details you already have an answer to; it also entails:
Interacting with your environment through mindful observation.
Actively observing details.
Using logic and imagination to envision possible consequences.
Having good observational skills is more than just seeing or noticing something. You must also understand what you have witnessed and know how to record it efficiently. The observation you acquire from the environment you're guarding can be the key to ensuring its security. You always need to know what is happening in the surrounding areas. Any important observations you witness should be recorded in your security notebook, so you always have a record. Boost your observational skills with these tips, and you will become a better guardian of people and property.
