Dispelling Six Common Myths About Security Guards

While the security guard industry in New York City is larger than ever before, many of the city’s residents often have misconceptions about the profession. To some, security guards often go unnoticed. Others take note, but often have little understanding about the nature of the job. Many of the most common myths are so pervasive that some would-be security guards often enter the field with uncertain expectations. Whether you’re a resident of the City that Never Sleeps or someone interested in pursuing a career as a security guard, it’s important to dispel these myths to better understand the important role security guards play in our daily lives. Here are six common myths about security guards, and why they’re wrong.

Myth: Every Security Guard Has a Gun

Because security guards fulfill a wide range of roles, they do not all carry guns. Some jobs do not require armed guards, after all. However, it is true that armed guards will have generally received even more exhaustive training, since they must meet the state’s standards for carrying a licensed firearm.

Myth: Security Guards are Untrained and Unskilled

This myth common but couldn’t be more inaccurate. The security guard industry is regulated, and the state of New York has strict educational and training requirements that must be met by all licensed guards.

Myth: Security Guards Don’t Really Do Anything

Unfortunately, popular entertainment has created a stereotype of security guards who do little more than blunder around at the job site. In reality, these highly-trained professionals not only guard people and property but have the training necessary to provide accurate threat assessments and respond to a variety of dangers and unexpected situations.

Myth: Security Guards are Bad at Public Relations

While security guards often serve in a fairly unobtrusive capacity, that doesn’t mean that they cannot interact properly with the public when the situation calls for it. Modern guards are trained for that interaction, and can communicate in a professional manner with visitors, customers, employees, and public officials.

Myth: Security Guards have Powers Like the Police

Some people assume that guards are like police officers and have similar powers. The fact is that guards are limited in their ability to do certain things, and their powers are vastly different than those wielded by the police. Competent security professionals work hand-in-hand with the police, however, providing a front-line defense against many crimes and threats.

Myth: Only the Wealthiest Individuals and Companies Can Afford Security Guards

Some business owners mistakenly believe that they cannot afford a security guard presence. That’s often untrue. Like any security measure, the choice of whether to hire security guards ultimately comes down to weighing the costs and benefits. Because guards can prevent theft, deter crime, and provide an overall higher level of security for businesses and others, many people find that it’s extremely cost-effective to retain the services of one or more security guards.

For more information about these topics and other myths about the security industry, contact International Security Services – New York City’s dedicated security experts.

George Kozhar

George Kozhar is a respected security professional, licensed private investigator, and founder of International Security Services (ISS) - New York City’s dedicated security experts since 1999. Mr. Kozhar and his team provide a full array of private and business investigative services in the U.S. and overseas, VIP executive protection, armed and unarmed security guard services and training, and Fire and Life Safety Director training through the company’s Fire Science Institute.