A strong Security Guard resume can be the key to landing your dream job in the security industry. It’s essential to ensure that your resume highlights your skills and experience in a way that makes you stand out from the crowd. Your resume is your first introduction to potential employers, so it’s important to make a great first impression.

The security industry is highly competitive, and employers receive thousands of resumes every year. They are looking for applicants who have the right set of skills, experience, and a proven track record of keeping people and property safe. Your resume is your opportunity to showcase your abilities and demonstrate how you can be an asset to their team.

A well-crafted Security Guard resume can help you get your foot in the door and give you a competitive edge over other applicants. Hiring managers use your resume to gauge your qualifications, skills, and experience quickly. It will help them determine if you’re a good fit for the position and if you’re worth investing in.

Having a strong Security Guard resume not only opens doors but also puts you in a position to negotiate better pay and benefits. A strong resume can help you secure a high-paying job with excellent benefits, such as healthcare, dental, and retirement plans.

In the next sections, we’ll take a closer look at what goes into creating a compelling Security Guard resume that will help you stand out from the crowd. We’ll explore the sections and details that security employers seek in a resume and other critical factors such as formatting, layout, and tips to enhance your Security Guard resume.

Tips for Writing a Strong Security Guard Resume

Writing a strong security guard resume requires careful attention to detail, a strong understanding of the job description and requirements, and the ability to effectively present your experience, skills, training and certifications. In addition, you will need to optimize your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) by using relevant keywords. Below are four tips to help you create a powerful security guard resume:

Understanding the Job Description and Requirements

To write a strong security guard resume, you need to understand the job description and requirements. This includes knowing the specific duties and responsibilities of the position, as well as the qualifications and skills that are required. Use this information to tailor your resume to the job you are applying for.

Presenting Your Experience and Skills Effectively

To be a successful security guard, you need to have a range of skills and experience that make you well-suited for the job. Make sure to highlight your experience and skills in your resume, using examples and specific achievements to demonstrate your abilities. Quantify your successes as much as possible to show your impact.

Highlighting Any Relevant Training or Certifications

Having the right training and certifications is critical for a security guard, and can set you apart from other candidates. Make sure to highlight any relevant educational qualifications, as well as any certifications or licenses you hold. This can include anything from first aid and CPR training to firearms qualifications.

Using Keywords to Optimize for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Many companies use an ATS to screen resumes before they even reach a human recruiter. To ensure your resume gets past this initial screening, use relevant keywords throughout your resume. These may include terms like ‘access control’, ‘patrol procedures’, ‘surveillance equipment’, ’emergency response’, and more. Research job descriptions for security guards in your desired location to identify the most common keywords used, and incorporate them into your resume.

By following these four tips, you can create a strong security guard resume that captures the attention of hiring managers and recruiters, and shows them that you have the skills, experience and qualifications necessary for the job.

Formatting Your Security Guard Resume

One of the most crucial aspects of crafting an effective security guard resume is the formatting. A poorly formatted resume can leave a bad first impression and make it difficult for potential employers to see the value that you can bring to their organization. In this section, we will discuss the following:

Choosing the right format for your experience and skills: There are three main resume formats: chronological, functional, and hybrid. You should choose a format that showcases your skills and experience in the best light. For instance, if you have a steady work history within the security industry, a chronological format would be suitable to highlight your progression. Alternatively, if you’re looking to transition industries and highlight transferable skills, a functional or hybrid resume may be more effective.
Tips for a professional and visually appealing design: A well-designed resume can capture the attention of recruiters and hiring managers. It is essential to use clean and easy-to-read fonts, appropriate color schemes, and white space to make your resume visually appealing. Use bullet points to break out your key achievements and responsibilities, and utilize bold and italic text for emphasis. Additionally, ensure that the font size is appropriate and consistent throughout the document.
Best practices for organizing sections and information: A well-organized resume should be easy to navigate, allowing employers to find the information they need quickly. Start with a header that includes your name and relevant contact information, followed by a summary statement that highlights your skills and experience. Next, list your work experience in reverse chronological order, including your job title, company name, dates of employment, and descriptions of your duties and accomplishments on the job. Finally, list your education, certifications, and any additional relevant skills.

When formatting your security guard resume, you want to choose a format that highlights your skills and experience, utilize a professional and visually appealing design, and follow best practices for organizing sections and information. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of standing out to potential employers and securing the job that you desire.

Security Guard Resume Example (if applicable)

Below is a sample resume for a Security Guard position, along with detailed annotations and explanations of key sections:

John Doe

123 Main Street, Anytown USA 12345 | (555) 555-5555 | [email protected]

Professional Summary:

A highly motivated and dedicated Security Guard with 5 years of experience providing protection services for commercial and residential properties. Skilled in monitoring and patrolling premises to detect suspicious activity, preventing criminal activity and responding to emergencies. Possess excellent observation and communication skills with a strong attention to detail.

Education:

Associates in Criminal Justice, Anytown College, Anytown USA (Graduated: May 2014)

Certifications:

Certified Security Guard, State of Anytown (Expiration: May 2022)
CPR and First Aid Certified (Expiration: May 2021)

Professional Experience:

Security Guard, XYZ Security Services May 2014 – Present

Monitor and patrol commercial and residential properties to prevent criminal activity and unauthorized access
Report and respond to suspicious activity, emergencies and alarms
Provide excellent customer service by greeting and assisting visitors and tenants
Document incidents and submit reports to management and authorities as necessary
Conduct regular inspections of equipment and facilities to ensure they are in proper working condition

Annotations:

John Doe’s professional summary provides potential employers with a brief introduction to his qualifications and experience as a Security Guard. It is important to tailor this section to the specific job you are applying for.
John’s education and certifications section highlights his formal training and qualifications in the field of security.
In the professional experience section, John provides specific examples of his duties and responsibilities as a Security Guard, including monitoring and patrolling properties, responding to emergencies, and documenting incidents. It is important to quantify accomplishments and responsibilities whenever possible, such as John’s regular equipment and facility inspections.

Contact Information Section

When applying for a job, your contact information is crucial for potential employers to get in touch with you. As a security guard, it’s important to ensure that your contact information is prominently displayed on your resume. Here are some best practices for including your contact information in a resume:

1. Use a professional email address

Your email address is one of the primary ways that potential employers will contact you. Ensure that your email address is professional and appropriate. Avoid using email addresses with unprofessional handles or personal information.

2. Provide a current phone number

Your phone number is an essential way to stay in touch with potential employers. Verify that your phone number is correct, and consider utilizing a professional voicemail greeting.

3. Include a professional voicemail message

Your voicemail message should be professional, providing your name and a brief message indicating that you will return the call when available. Avoid using humor, slang, or inappropriate language.

4. Utilize a clear and concise mailing address

Your mailing address should be easy to understand and up to date. Use a full address including street name/number, city, state, and zip code. If you must use a post office box, include the physical address.

Including relevant social media accounts, such as LinkedIn, can provide employers with more information about your background and qualifications. Ensure that these accounts are professional and appropriate.

6. Consider a professional website or portfolio

If you have a professional website or portfolio, include the URL in your resume. This can showcase your skills and qualifications and make a positive impression on potential employers.

Your contact information is an essential component of your resume as a security guard. By following these best practices, you can ensure that your contact information is professional, up to date, and effective in connecting with potential employers.

Professional Summary Section

When crafting your professional summary section on your resume, it’s important to keep in mind that this is the first thing that the hiring manager will read. You want to make sure that it is strong enough to grab their attention and entice them to read further into your resume. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when crafting your summary:

Tips for Crafting a Strong Summary

Keep it concise: Your professional summary should only be a few sentences long. You want to make sure that you are getting your point across quickly and effectively.
Highlight your strengths: This is your chance to shine! Make sure that you are highlighting the skills and experiences that make you the best candidate for the job.
Use industry-specific language: If there are any keywords or phrases that are commonly used in your industry, make sure to include them in your summary.
Tailor it to the job: Make sure that your summary is specifically tailored to the job you are applying for. This will show the hiring manager that you have taken the time to research the company and the position.

Examples of Strong and Weak Summary Statements

Strong Summary Statement

“Experienced and reliable security guard with over 5 years of experience in providing exceptional protection and customer service. Skilled in monitoring premises, deterring theft, and responding to emergencies. Certified in First Aid and CPR.”

Weak Summary Statement

“Security guard with experience seeking new job opportunities.”

As you can see, the strong summary statement highlights the candidate’s strengths and qualifications, while the weak summary statement is too general and doesn’t provide any specific information. Keep these tips in mind when crafting your own summary statement, and you’ll be sure to impress the hiring manager!

Experience Section

When writing the experience section of your resume, it’s important to present your work history in a clear and organized manner. Here are some best practices and tips for crafting a strong experience section:

Start with your most recent job and work backwards in reverse chronological order
Use bullet points to make your responsibilities and accomplishments easy to read
Quantify your achievements whenever possible, using numbers or percentages to show the impact you made
Use action verbs to start each bullet point, such as “managed”, “developed”, or “implemented”
Be consistent in formatting and style throughout the section

To highlight your impact and achievements in previous roles, focus on measurable outcomes and results. Here are some examples:

Increased on-site security by implementing new surveillance systems, resulting in a 50% decrease in theft incidents
Developed and led monthly training sessions for fellow security guards, resulting in a 20% improvement in emergency response times
Coordinated security operations for large-scale events with over 1,000 attendees, ensuring a safe and secure environment for all participants
Responded to incidents quickly and effectively, reducing response times by an average of 10 minutes

For those with experience as a security guard, here are some example bullet points to include:

Conducted routine patrols of assigned areas, identifying and addressing potential security risks
Screened visitors and employees for proper identification and clearance, maintaining a secure facility environment
Responded promptly to alarms and emergency situations, providing assistance and support to those in need
Maintained accurate documentation of incidents and activities, ensuring clear communication among security staff and management

Remember, the experience section of your resume is your opportunity to showcase your skills and accomplishments to potential employers. Use these tips to ensure that your past experiences set you apart from other candidates and position you as the best fit for the job.

Education and Training Section

When it comes to creating a resume for a security guard position, including your education and training can make a significant impact in getting hired. This section should include your relevant education and training, certifications, and licenses. Here are some tips on how to highlight these credentials in your resume and make them stand out to potential employers.

Highlighting Relevant Education and Training

Listing your educational credentials and certifications should start by highlighting those that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for. If you hold a relevant degree or diploma, be sure to point it out in the education section of your resume. For example, if you have a degree in criminal justice, highlight this qualification towards the beginning of the education section.

If you have taken any courses or training in security or law enforcement, list them in bullet points under the education section. You can also create a separate section for training or include them with your certifications.

Including Certifications and Licenses

Certifications and licenses can significantly improve your chances of getting a security guard position. Make sure to list all your certifications and licenses relevant to the job. Some common certifications and licenses for security guard roles include First Aid Certification, CPR Certification, and Firearm Permit. You can also include any specialized certifications such as Crowd Control or Defensive Driving Certifications.

It is crucial to ensure these are up-to-date and valid. Some employers may check their validity, and an expired or non-existing certification or license could cost you the job.

Relevant Training and Certifications for Security Guard Roles

Security guard roles require specific training to ensure that you can handle any situation that may arise. Mentioning the right certifications and training can make your resume stand out in a crowded field.

Some relevant certifications and training for security guard roles are:

Basic Security Guard Training: This is a mandatory training program that is recognized in many states. The course covers security fundamentals, ethics, and legalities.
Crisis Management: This training focuses on preparing security guards to manage crises that may arise at the workplace. It includes topics such as surveillance, threat assessment, and emergency response procedures.
Defensive Tactics: This training offers instructions in hand-to-hand combat, how to disarm weapons, and how to subdue suspects.
CPR and First Aid Certification: It is critical for security guards to have CPR and First Aid certification as they are often the first responders in case of an emergency.
Crowd Control: Crowd control training has become increasingly essential in modern times. This certification provides training on how to manage situations with large groups of people.

If you have relevant education and training, certifications, or licenses, remember to include them in your security guard resume. Highlight them appropriately, ensure they are up-to-date and valid and mention the most relevant training and certifications that can make you stand out in the job search.

Skills Section

One of the most important sections on a security guard resume is the skills section. This is where you can highlight the specific skills and qualifications that make you the best candidate for the job. Here are some tips for presenting your skills section in a clear and concise way:

Use bullet points: List your skills using bullet points rather than paragraphs. This makes it easier for the reader to scan and quickly identify your key skills.
Use relevant keywords: Review the job description and use keywords from the job posting in your skills section. This can help your resume stand out to hiring managers who are looking for specific skills.
Prioritize your skills: List your most relevant skills first. This ensures that the hiring manager sees your most important qualifications right away.
Be specific: Be specific when listing your skills. For example, instead of saying you have “customer service skills,” list specific skills such as “ability to deal with difficult customers” or “knowledge of conflict resolution techniques.”

When it comes to relevant skills for security guard roles, there are several key qualifications that you should highlight on your resume. These include:

Surveillance skills: As a security guard, you will need to be able to monitor the area you are responsible for and identify potential security risks. This requires excellent surveillance skills and the ability to pay close attention to detail.
Communication skills: Communication is a key part of any security guard’s job. You will need to be able to effectively communicate with team members, clients, and any other stakeholders involved in the security process.
Physical fitness: Security guards are often required to stand or walk for long periods of time. They may also need to be able to pursue and apprehend suspects if necessary. Physical fitness is essential for success in this role.
Knowledge of security equipment: You will need to have a thorough understanding of security equipment such as cameras, alarms, and access control systems. This knowledge can help you identify potential security risks and respond quickly in case of an emergency.
Emergency response skills: In the event of an emergency, security guards may be called upon to respond and take action. This requires the ability to remain calm under pressure and follow established protocols.

By highlighting these key skills on your resume, you can demonstrate to hiring managers that you have the qualifications needed to excel as a security guard. Remember to present your skills section in a clear and concise way, using specific examples to demonstrate your capabilities.

Accomplishments Section (if applicable)

As a security guard, you’re often responsible for ensuring the safety and security of people and property. It’s a demanding job that requires a high level of professionalism and dedication. If you’re looking to impress potential employers with your resume, then make sure to include a section highlighting your specific achievements.

Here are some tips on how to showcase your accomplishments:

Be specific: Provide concrete examples of what you’ve achieved in your security guard career. For instance, if you’ve helped apprehend a thief, prevented a fire or managed a security breach, make sure to mention it. Employers want to know the impact you’ve had in your previous roles.
Quantify your achievements: Use numbers to showcase the scale of your achievements. For instance, you can say how many incidents you’ve prevented, the number of people you’ve helped, or the cost savings you’ve delivered. This makes your accomplishments more tangible and easier to understand.
Highlight your skills: Use your accomplishments to demonstrate your skills and abilities. For instance, if you’ve successfully intervened in a potentially violent situation, it shows that you have strong communication and conflict-resolution skills. List these skills in your accomplishments section to make them stand out.
Tailor your achievements: When applying for a particular job, make sure to highlight the accomplishments that are most relevant to the role. For instance, if you’re applying for a security guard job at a hospital, then mention any occasions where you’ve helped a patient in distress.

Here are some examples of bullet points for an accomplishments section:

Prevented 20 incidents of theft, resulting in thousands of dollars in cost savings for the company.
Responded to a medical emergency and performed CPR until paramedics arrived, saving the patient’s life.
Successfully intervened in a potential altercation between two customers, using strong communication skills and preventing any harm being caused.
Collaborated with local law enforcement to apprehend a burglary suspect, resulting in his arrest and the recovery of stolen property.
Developed and implemented a new security protocol that reduced the number of security breaches by 50% over a period of six months.
Trained new security personnel on safety procedures and ongoing training strategies, resulting in a 25% reduction in safety incidents.

Use these tips and examples to highlight your accomplishments as a security guard and make your resume stand out to potential employers.

References Section

Including references in your resume is an important step to showcase your credibility and professionalism to potential employers. In this section, we will discuss the best practices for including references in your resume, as well as examples of strong and weak wording for this section.

Best practices for including references in your resume

Choose your references wisely – It is essential to select references that can attest to your skills and work ethic. This is why it is crucial to choose references that are relevant and knowledgeable about your industry or field. You can opt for previous supervisors, colleagues, or clients who have worked with you in the past.
Ask for permission – Before including anyone as a reference, ensure that you have received their permission to do so. It is also a good idea to inform them about the types of jobs that you are applying for.
Provide relevant information – When providing your references’ information, ensure that you include their full name, job title, company name, phone number, and email address. It is also important to indicate your relationship with them.
Organize your references – To make your resume look organized, group your references separately from the main body of your resume. This can be done by listing them at the end of your resume in a separate section.
Keep your references updated – Always keep your references updated on your job search status. This is especially important if a potential employer contacts them.

Examples of strong and weak wording for references section

Strong wording

“I have worked closely with [Reference Name] for [duration of time] at [Company Name]. During this time, [Reference Name] has served as my supervisor and he/she can provide insights into my work ethic, professionalism, and expertise in [specific skill or area of expertise].”
“I have collaborated with [Reference Name] on various projects at [previous company]. He/She can attest to my problem-solving skills, ability to work under pressure, and attention to detail.”

Weak wording

“References available upon request.”
“Please contact my references for more information.”

By following the best practices for including references in your resume and incorporating strong wording, you can increase your chances of standing out among other applicants and landing the job you want.

Security Guard Resume Sample & Writing Tips in 2024