One of the best ways to grow your career as a security professional is to create a network of industry contacts. These business associates can offer career advice, provide referrals and connect you with hidden job opportunities for security guards. Read on for tips on building rewarding professional relationships that help you gain an advantage in the job market.
Key Takeaways
- Set the stage for career growth by networking with peers, colleagues, recruiters and other security professionals.
- Your network can offer mentorship, advice and referrals to security guard jobs.
- Authentic networking involves building genuine and meaningful relationships.
1. Join a Professional Association
An excellent way to keep tabs on the security industry in your region is by joining a professional association. A membership gives you access to industry events and training opportunities, enabling you to meet a diverse network of people. You can interact with key decision-makers and new security guards with whom you can build your career.
2. Attend Job Fairs
Job fairs give you direct access to recruiters at security companies. Begin compiling a list of contacts and learning about the skills and qualities they’re looking for. You can then tailor your resume when applying for jobs.
Security guard hiring events can be in-person or virtual. Some job fairs bring together a variety of security agencies, but occasionally, companies host their own to expand their private talent pool. To learn about events in your area, monitor job boards and connect with businesses you’re interested in working with. They may also have mailing lists or social media accounts you can follow.
3. Organize Informational Interviews
Informational interviews allow you to chat one-on-one with security professionals to learn more about their job or company. For example, if you’re interested in moving into loss prevention, ask someone in that field about the responsibilities and skills needed to fulfill the role. These aren’t job interviews — the focus is on helping you learn about career paths. However, you may be top of mind if you show enthusiasm and an opening comes up at the company in the future.
4. Network Online
Create a profile on LinkedIn that highlights your security guard experience, skills and education. As you meet new contacts, add them as connections. You can also reach out to recruiters at companies you’d like to work at.
To build a professional profile, ask employers and colleagues to endorse or recommend you based on your work. You may soon find recruiters approaching you directly with lucrative job opportunities for security guards.
5. Attend Industry Events
Industry-related conferences, trade shows and workshops offer opportunities to interact with other security professionals. These events attract individuals in a variety of security roles, so you’ll have a chance to diversify your network. You may even meet people working in different specializations, such as aviation, healthcare, data and government security.
Learn about these events through professional associations, social media, online forums and communities, and your colleagues. To make the most of the opportunity, focus on developing genuine relationships instead of your next job. Be authentic and curious, and get to know people personally. It goes a long way.
6. Pursue Professional Development Opportunities
Keep your skills and knowledge sharp by taking courses aligned with your career goals. You’ll keep your resume current and meet fellow students, guest speakers and industry experts who can become valuable to your network.
7. Stay Up to Date on Industry Trends
When you’re interacting with your contacts, make a good impression. Be aware of trends and developments in the security industry so you can be part of conversations. This not only enhances your personal knowledge but helps you engage thoughtfully with your network and show your interest in the field.
8. Follow Up
When you make a connection with someone, send a quick follow-up message to tell them you were glad to meet them. Later, if you take their advice — maybe they suggested checking out an article or course — let them know how it impacted you. Don’t overdo it, but periodic check-ins can solidify relationships.
Benefits of Networking
Networking connects you to the larger security community, introducing you to potential employers and key decision-makers in your area. By nurturing these relationships, you can boost your visibility.
Your contacts can offer advice and mentorship. More importantly, they can refer or recommend you when they come across job opportunities for security guards. If you make enough of an impression, they may even turn to you to fill unadvertised positions.
Making Connections for Your Security Guard Career
Whether you’re attending conferences, connecting on LinkedIn or joining a professional association, use a variety of strategies to advance your security guard career. Complement your networking by viewing our job board at Security Guards Only for current opportunities in the field.
