Can you believe security firms are facing extremely high 100% turnover in a year? That means they are basically resetting their workforce every year! 

Running a security firm is no small feat. You’re managing tight schedules, maintaining client relationships, and juggling the constant demands of hiring qualified security officers. But your security firm could be running smoother. Sound familiar? 

Let’s explore easy ways to improve efficiency and keep your team around longer.

Are You Paying Enough Attention to Wages?

Let’s be real here folks—money talks. If you’re not offering competitive wages, chances are, your officers are already looking for the next opportunity. Low pay is one of the biggest reasons for high turnover in the UK security industry. 

A lot of security guards are earning £9.50 per hour, the current National Living Wage for those 23 and older. Despite some bumps in recent years, it’s still not enough to attract or keep talent when other industries are offering more (source).

Stop the hiring merry-go-round by paying attention to what others are offering. Keep your wages competitive, sure, but don’t forget about benefits. Add health insurance or commuting help, and your team will appreciate it—and stay longer.

Need to know more about fair pay in the security sector? Watch here.

Is Your Scheduling Turning Employees Away?

The grind of long, unpredictable hours is a major reason why security officers jump ship. If your schedules are inflexible, you’re making their lives harder. Gold scheduling can be an easy win.

A recent survey found that unsociable hours and lack of flexibility are pushing people away. Many security workers say this is why they leave, craving better work-life balance and more stable schedules. 

Tip: Want happier staff? Offer shifts that work for their lifestyle. Shorter hours for family needs or closer locations to reduce travel time can make all the difference.

Training: More Than Just a Box to Tick

Think about this: Are your officers stuck in the same routine, day after day? Offering training and certifications can give them hope for the future. When employees see they can grow, they’ll be more likely to stay, which means less turnover for you.

Insight: Engagement is key. Businesses with engaged teams see a 23% increase in profitability. So, it’s clear: investing in growth opportunities pays off in more ways than one.

Recognition Goes a Long Way

When was the last time you gave a shout out to a top-performing officer? It’s easy to overlook, but recognition counts. Engaged workers don’t leave easily—they’re 87% less likely to jump ship. Recognition doesn’t just keep them happy; it also raises customer ratings by 10%. Happy team, happy clients! (source)

A little praise—public or a bonus—can build loyalty and save you from constant hiring.

Supporting Mental and Physical Health

Security work can take a toll, and burnout is real. Simple things like counselling or wellness programs can help. It shows you care and keeps them ready for the job.

A worrying number of security officers—over a third, are reporting high stress, with many also struggling with anxiety and depression. This highlights a mental health crisis in the sector, and it’s clear that measures like counselling and wellness programs are more important than ever (source).

Learn more about how to support your team’s mental well-being here.

Are You Leveraging Technology?

Let’s talk about security technology for private firms. Are you using it to your advantage? Tools like security workforce management systems can streamline operations and reduce the burden on your officers. 

These systems can help with scheduling, logging incidents, and tracking performance in real time. Not only does this boost security firm efficiency, but it also reduces errors that come with manual processes.

Opportunities for Advancement

Most officers want to move beyond front-line work. Offering a clear path for career growth is one of the simplest improvements you can make. Whether through promotion or leadership programs, it keeps them motivated and lowers turnover.​

According to the BSIA, the expansion of security management jobs has upped the need for training. More security managers are being hired and are undergoing ongoing development. This is great for those just starting out. A solid career path keeps people around since they see how they can advance.

Client Satisfaction Starts With Your Team

Here’s a tip—happy employees lead to happy clients. When your staff feels supported, it shows in everything they do.​ Simple tweaks—better schedules, fair pay, and a pat on the back—can go a long way. These changes don’t just help your staff; they make your clients happier too. After all, happy employees equal satisfied clients. It’s a win-win.

Final Thoughts

Running a security firm is tough, no doubt. But there are easy wins if you know where to look. Focus on fair wages, better schedules, and ongoing training. You’ll see fewer staff leaving and better service all around. A supported team means happier clients. And that boosts your bottom line. 

Ready to make a change? Start small today. Watch your firm thrive with just a few tweaks.

The post Could Your Security Firm Be Missing Out on Easy Wins? appeared first on GuardPass Resources.

Imagine you’re at the start of your shift, scanning the area—just another day in the life of a security professional. Like a well-oiled machine, your job is to protect and manage, but how often do you apply those same principles of vigilance and care to your own health?

We know, working in security demands a lot, both physically and mentally. From long hours on your feet to the high-stress situations spiking your adrenaline without a moment’s notice, the job can take its toll. We understand how cumulative stress and physical strain can impact your health over time.

Culture of wellness

For employers in the security sector, want to cultivate a healthier workplace? What’s the first step? Recognise these unique challenges. Building a culture of wellness means more than offering a health plan. Integrate health into every aspect of the workplace environment. How? Provide regular health screenings, mental health days, and training that emphasises the importance of physical and mental health.

Practical tips: Easy-to-adopt health practices for the workplace

So, how can you start making immediate changes? Here are some practical steps that your security firm can implement:

Mental Health Support: Your security personnel need someone to talk to? And believe me, they often need it. Why not offer access to counselling and mental health resources? It could really lighten the load.

Flexible Working Options: Ever thought about flexible hours? Giving your team control over their schedules can cut stress and lift spirits and improve job satisfaction, which contributes to overall health.

Fitness Programmes: How about a workout? Maybe a company-sponsored fitness programme or gym membership could help keep everyone energised and stress-free.

Health Education: Regular workshops on topics such as stress management, proper nutrition, and the benefits of physical activity can empower employees to take charge of their health.

Scheduled Breaks: Encourage regular breaks during shifts to reduce physical fatigue and mental strain. Even a short walk or a few minutes in a quiet area can rejuvenate the mind and body.

Quiet Zones: Need a minute? Setting up a quiet area for breaks might be just what your team needs to recharge during a busy day.

Heart Rate and Activity Trackers: Feeling a bit static? Why not provide some smart gadget to you security team to keep tabs on their heart rate and steps with some smart gadgets? They’re great for reminding everyone to move around a bit more throughout the day, keeping them healthier and more alert.

Automated Shift Planning: Working too hard? Let’s sort those shifts better. Automated planning can help ensure everyone gets the right amount of rest and keeps your team sharp and safe. Why not make sure everyone’s as fresh as they can be?

Wellness in your Security Firm: A practical guide

Starting a conversation about wellness in your firm doesn’t have to be daunting. Here are a few strategies to bring health to the forefront:

Wellness Committees: Form a committee dedicated to health and wellness. Results? More tailored health initiatives to better fit the needs of your security team.

Feedback Systems: Implement a system where employees can freely provide feedback on their health needs and wellness ideas. This inclusion can make your team feel valued and increase engagement with health programmes.

Lead by Example: Management should lead by example. When leadership actively participates in wellness activities, it encourages the team to follow suit.

As we conclude, integrate wellness into your security firm’s culture. It’s a beneficial decision for your employees and maintains a resilient, effective team. 

Shift your focus towards a more holistic approach to health in your security firm, ensuring that your security professionals are not only equipped to protect others but also to take care of themselves. 

Now, take the first step, have that conversation, and see the difference it makes not just to individual team members, but to the entire fabric of your firm.

Popular Topics

Backstage

Ensure effortless compliance with GuardPass’s Licence Hub

Temporary Recruitment

Introducing “Flexible Staffing”, from GuardPass.

interview & onboarding

Tips for identifying Top Security Talent

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Estimated reading time: 11 minutes

The post Integrate health & wellness into security work culture appeared first on GuardPass Resources.

Picture this: you require reliable security professionals for your organisation. You want the best, but how do you attract them? The secret lies in crafting a security job ad that grabs their attention and doesn’t let go. Today, we’ll explore the art of creating irresistible security job ads with help from GuardPass, the UK’s premier security job board.

GuardPass: Your ultimate security job board

Before we dive deep into the topic, let’s introduce you to GuardPass, your go-to platform for all things security-related. Whether you’re an employer seeking top-notch security personnel or a professional on the hunt for your next gig, GuardPass has you covered. To explore opportunities or post a job, visit our employers’ page.

Deconstructing a standout security job ad

Let’s dissect a GuardPass job ad to understand what makes it tick and how to apply these principles to your job listings.

Job Title: Security officer – Leicester Employer: Globi Security LTD

Location: Leicester, UK

The hook: Immediate Start

The draw: Competitive Pay

GuardPass gets straight to the point by highlighting the hourly wage – £9.50 – £10 per hour and breaks down earnings for a clear picture. It’s upfront and transparent.

The Essentials: Job Type & Benefits

This ad doesn’t beat around the bush. It clearly states that it’s a Full-time position.

The details: Job Description & Duties

A standout job ad provides a comprehensive job description. GuardPass excels in this department by detailing the responsibilities and ensuring applicants know exactly what’s expected.

The non-negotiables: Requirements

While stating the requirements is standard, emphasising them is essential. GuardPass makes it crystal clear that a Door Supervisor and Security Guard Licence is a must.

The flexibility factor

GuardPass understands that one size doesn’t fit all. They offer flexibility, catering to different preferences within the security industry.

The tone: Engage, don’t overwhelm

Lastly, the ad maintains a conversational tone throughout. It avoids corporate jargon, making it approachable and engaging.

The art of crafting irresistible security job ads

Now that we’ve deconstructed a standard GuardPass job ad, let’s unlock the secret behind crafting an irresistible security job ad with a focus on comprehensive benefits:

Competitive pay: The foundation. A compelling security job ad starts with competitive pay. Job seekers want to know what’s in it, including a fair wage. Our example clearly states the hourly rate and breaks down earnings, offering complete transparency.

Clarity on job type. Specifying the job type is essential in an era where flexibility is valued. GuardPass mentions that it’s a part-time position, allowing potential candidates to align their expectations with the role.

Elevating the Offer. It’s not just about the paycheck but what comes with the job. In our example, applicants are enticed with benefits like a uniform and store discounts. These seemingly small perks can make a significant difference when job seekers decide.

Detailed job description. A detailed job description sets expectations. GuardPass excels here by outlining the responsibilities, ensuring applicants understand precisely what the role entails.

Emphasise requirements. While stating the requirements is standard, highlighting them helps attract suitable candidates. GuardPass clarifies that a Door Supervisor Licence is a must, filtering out applicants who need to meet this criterion and saving everyone’s time.

Flexibility matters. Flexibility can be a game-changer. We understand that not all security professionals want the same thing. Some prefer regular shifts, while others seek flexibility. By offering both, they cater to a broader pool of applicants.

Engage, don’t overwhelm. Lastly, the job ad should be manageable. Using a conversational tone and avoiding corporate jargon is critical. GuardPass strikes a balance between providing essential information and keeping the reader hired.

Comprehensive benefits are a game-changer. GuardPass knows this, and you can too. Craft irresistible security job ads like a pro by following our lead. Offer competitive pay, clarify job types, entice with benefits, provide detailed descriptions, emphasise requirements, offer flexibility, and maintain an engaging tone.

Ready to hire? Head to GuardPass today!

Popular Topics

Backstage

Ensure effortless compliance with GuardPass’s Licence Hub

Temporary Recruitment

Introducing “Flexible Staffing”, from GuardPass.

interview & onboarding

Tips for identifying Top Security Talent

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

The post Crafting irresistible security job ads: The power of comprehensive benefits appeared first on GuardPass Resources.

Enhancing security team skills: Training solutions with GuardPass.The cohesion of security teams is absolutely fundamental to the success of contracts. The best way to both improve that cohesion, and improve the service to any client, is via quality relevant training for your teams. From initial recruitment, to ongoing team development, GuardPass has training solutions for every stage of your Security Officer’s employment.

With the cost of living now going up, availability of security officers in the jobs market going down, and companies looking to attract quality employees, paying for Security Industry Authority mandatory training to attract fresh talent into the industry, is an option that is now increasingly being considered by employers. The GuardPass system for employers looking at providing this initial training, is called “GuardTrain”. GuardTrain can be used to book industry leading license qualification courses for new recruits, at 85 locations across the UK. Best of all, companies can benefit from special corporate rates, and group booking discounts. Despite this money saving process, companies can be safe in the knowledge that the new employees coming through this system have had the advantage of undergoing celebrated and outstanding quality, Get Licensed approved training courses.

On deployment to a new contract, it takes a while for any team to settle in. During this period, a phenomenal way to impress a client is to have your security team undergo further relevant quality training based on needs identified in the initial site survey. Toolbox talks may be useful for ongoing training and refreshing knowledge, but better still, identify specialist skills from the huge selection of professionally developed and great value e-learning courses available on GuardPass, and get your team to complete them in their down time. Successful completion of these courses generates a certificate which your HR team can place on file, and which both increases the value of the Security Officer to the client, and highlights your company’s commitment to staff development.

When budgets are tight, employee development should always be prioritised as there is little to touch the cost to benefit equation of good training. The value of the resulting contract retention, maintaining company reputation, and retaining good Security Officers, can not be overstated.

When budgets are at rock bottom, GuardPass can still help your company to keep up with the professional development of you security teams, with content for the previously mentioned toolbox talks, and free reference material for your employees, all via the free GuardPass app. Encouraging your employees to download this app to their smart devices immediately places access to a huge and growing library of expert guidance, news, views and free refresher training, on a variety of subjects, at their fingertips.

Your operations management can also utilise the huge amount of information and expert guidance available, to assist them in creating those toolbox talks. These usually take place on site and can be performed for anywhere from one to maybe 30 officers at once. These are bite sized training sessions and usually just take about 10 minutes to deliver, with more time at the end for a useful question and answer session. This is a fabulous way to provide updates on security practice, site procedures, and other important operational issues. Keep a record of those that attended, and the subject discussed, and a Security Officer’s personnel file can be appropriately updated with the new skill taught or knowledge imparted.

Richard Branson wisely said that the best way to look after your clients is to look after your staff. The best way to look after your staff is by increasing their professional value. The best way to do this? Training, Training, Training!

Whatever your training needs, and however big or small your security teams may be, GuardPass has comprehensive solutions, generating value, and easing the strain on your operations team.

Popular Topics

Backstage

Ensure effortless compliance with GuardPass’s Licence Hub

Temporary Recruitment

Introducing “Flexible Staffing”, from GuardPass.

interview & onboarding

Tips for identifying Top Security Talent

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

The post Enhancing security team skills: Training solutions with GuardPass. appeared first on GuardPass Resources.