The role of the security officer has evolved dramatically as a result of cultural shifts and the global impact of terrorism. Traumas of 7/7 and the devastating attacks on London Bridge and Borough Market have changed the way security is implemented across the world, especially within high risk capital cities. It’s now more critical than ever that security services are agile and remain ahead of the curve.
The pace of technological advancement has also had a considerable impact on enhancing security solutions for the varying requirements of today’s organisations. Electronic security and monitoring solutions monitored by centres like Corps Monitoring safely deliver 24/7 security surveillance, removing the risks for manned guards.
Electronic smart task devices elevate accountability as they log and guide patrols in real time, prompting officers to make important security checks. Officers book in and out at each location and must follow the safety checks before they can move on to the next area. This ensures all points are vigilantly monitored which reduces the risk of error.
Officers now also have access to real time workforce apps that provide a platform to raise concerns, communicate with management, and access HR information at the click of a button. This facilitates knowledge sharing, connects the workforce and streamlines processes.
Gone are the days when a security officer was a silent figure that watched from the doors of a building. The role of the security officer is much broader than a decade ago and is now a unique blend of security and front of house services. As well as a need for optimum vigilance and awareness due to the hostile threats the world faces today, tech, language and interpersonal skills are in demand.
Not only does Corps offer comprehensive security and premises training, each officer also completes client induction training so they can successfully present themselves as brand ambassadors by embodying client values. The presence of social media delivers a wealth of management information that clients can use to measure their facilities management services. One bad Google review from a disgruntled visitor can damage a client’s reputation and raise concerns about the service provider in question, so this heightens the demand for a high standard of customer service from security personnel.
Corps Security operates in a large portfolio of London’s flagship tourist destinations, so staff are also briefed on all the local attractions. Corps also goes one step further to up the ante on customer service and includes multi-lingual tourist information and maps in security officers’ pocket site guides.
The evolution of the role of the security officer has been significant in recent years and this will continue. Technology will continue to influence the role and the industry will undoubtedly move into more of a technical solutions environment supported by manpower. As clients become more pressured with budgets and demands to operate at more efficient levels, collaboration with monitoring centres will be key.
Whatever the future holds, security personnel must be agile with a hunger to learn and develop as the industry evolves.