The Simple Magic of Looking After Your Crew
Ever tried your hand at lock-picking? It’s all about understanding the lock and applying just the right touch. Believe it or not, keeping your security team happy and healthy is pretty similar. You’ve got to find the right balance between looking after their physical health, mental peace, and financial well-being. Nail that, and you’ve got a team that’s not just showing up but shining.
So, What’s the Drill?
In the security game, every day’s an adventure. You need your squad alert, ready, and feeling good. How do we ensure they’re more than just present?
More Than Just Muscle
Did you know that a fit security team is better at preventing crime, earns more respect, and faces fewer confrontations? It’s not about being ready for a marathon (kudos if they are, though!) but about overall health. Maybe it’s time for subsidised gym memberships, bringing in a physio, or regular health check-ups to keep everyone ticking along nicely.
It’s Okay Not to Be Okay
The stats are a bit of a shocker—almost 40% of security professionals could be struggling with stress or PTSD (source). The nature of our job doesn’t make it any easier. Creating an environment where it’s totally fine to say, “I’m struggling,” can make a world of difference. Providing access to counselling, creating a quiet space for downtime, or simply encouraging time off for family and relaxation can help keep spirits up.
Beyond Just Paying the Bills
Worries about money can throw anyone off their game. Transparent pay, clear progression paths, and maybe some finance management advice can help ease those money worries. If your team feels financially stable, they’re more likely to stay focused and engaged.
The Payoff? It’s Huge
When your team knows you’ve got their back, you’ll see it—fewer sick days, more energy, and buckets of loyalty. It’s about creating a workplace that doesn’t just exist but thrives.
Easy Steps to a Happier Team
✅ Chat with Your Crew: Straight-up ask them what they need. No mind-reading required.
✅ Craft a Plan: A little bit of this, a little bit of that. Tailor your approach to fit the team.
✅ Launch and Learn: Roll out your plan but stay flexible. Keep the conversation going about what’s working and what’s not.
✅ Keep It Rolling: Wellness isn’t a one-off project. It’s a continuous effort.
✅ Give Props: Notice something awesome? Shout it out. Publicly acknowledge your team’s efforts and achievements. Recognition boosts morale and promotes a culture of appreciation.
✅ Bond Beyond Work: Arrange some fun team activities. A good laugh together does wonders.
✅ Empowerment through Training: Continuous learning isn’t just about skills—it’s about well-being. Learning new skills keeps everyone engaged and interested.
✅ Flexibility Wins: Evaluate your scheduling. Offering flexibility, where possible, can greatly enhance your team’s work-life balance and satisfaction.
✅ Start listening: Establish regular, open forums for your team to voice concerns and suggestions. A listened-to employee feels valued and understood.
✅ Lead by Example: Show you’re committed to well-being in how you approach your own.
✅ Celebrate Together: No win is too small. Make a big deal out of achievements.
✅ Be a Safety Net: Ensure the team knows where to turn for help, whatever the issue might be.
Wrapping Up
Think of your team like a complex lock—each part needs attention and care. When everyone’s looked after, you’ll unlock levels of productivity and loyalty you didn’t know were possible. Let’s keep it simple, look out for each other, and turn our workplaces into spaces where everyone’s keen to be, not just because they have to be.
Beef up their skills with top-notch training courses, pay them what they’re worth, and open doors for them to climb the ladder. Let them mix up their work hours, and chuck in health perks too. Make the job work for them, inside and out.
If you’re on the lookout for fresh ideas or inspiration on how to further empower your team, why not explore what leading employers are doing? Dive into our GuardPass job board. It’s brimming with opportunities and insights from top employers in the security industry. See the benefits they offer and the cultures they cultivate.
It’s not just about filling positions; it’s about understanding what makes a team truly great.
Estimated reading time: 8 minutes