Best Security Guard Resume Examples For 2024 (Template & Guide)

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Security Guard Resume: Choose a Format

The first step in creating a resume that gets attention is to choose a format. The right resume format will highlight your skills and experience as a security guard, so choose carefully!

The three main resume formats to consider for a security guard resume are chronological, functional, or combination. Each has its advantages depending on your career stage and work history.

Chronological Resumes for Security Guards

If you have a solid work history in security, a chronological resume format might be your best bet. This format lists your job experiences in reverse order, starting with your most recent role. It showcases your career growth and demonstrates a consistent employment record.

Employers find this format easy to follow thanks to its clear timeline of your work history.

However, if you’ve had gaps in your employment or are transitioning from a different career, you might want to explore other formats to highlight your skills and qualifications.

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Functional Resumes for Security Guards

A functional resume format can be a game-changer if you’re shifting careers or have had some time away from work. This format emphasizes your skills and abilities over your chronological work history.

It allows you to spotlight key skills like surveillance, emergency response, and conflict resolution, making them the focal point of your resume.

This can be particularly useful if you have relevant skills but a less traditional career path. However, some employers might be cautious about this format because they prefer a detailed work history.

Functional resumes are incompatible with most applicant tracking systems (ATS), which could hurt your chances of getting past the initial rounds of resume screening.

Combination Resumes for Security Guards

The combination resume format merges elements of the chronological and functional formats. It highlights your top skills and qualifications first, followed by a detailed account of your work history.

This format is great for security guards with a wide range of experience who want to show off their skills and job experience. It’s ideal for those who wish to present a comprehensive view of their professional journey, balancing the importance of both skills and experience.

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Choosing a Resume Format

Selecting the right resume format is crucial for getting your resume noticed. When in doubt, a chronological format is often a safe bet.

Employers generally prefer chronological resumes because they clearly outline your career progression. They are also ATS-friendly, which means your resume is more likely to be seen by hiring managers.

Even if you don’t have much relevant experience as a security guard, you can still make a chronological resume work for you. Focus on highlighting transferable skills and relevant certifications.

For example, if you’ve worked in customer service, emphasize skills like communication, problem-solving, and attention to detail—these are all valuable in a security role.

Also, consider including any training or certifications you’ve completed, such as first aid, CPR, or any security-specific courses. These can demonstrate your commitment and readiness for a security guard position.

By customizing your chronological resume in this way, you can make your application stand out, even if your direct experience in security is limited. This approach helps showcase your potential and dedication, making you a strong candidate for the job.

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How to Write a Security Guard Resume

Once you have chosen a great resume template and the right format, the next step is to create your resume outline.

A resume for a security guard should include the following key sections:

• • • • • Contact Information
        • Summary or Objective
        • Work History
        • Skills
        • Education

These five sections are critical, but you can also include some optional sections to enhance your resume. We’ll explore those later in this guide! Let’s break down each section to ensure your resume shines:

Contact Information

Start with your contact information, making sure it’s accurate and professional. Include your full name, city and state, phone number, and email address.

Double-check that all details are up-to-date so potential employers can reach you easily.

For example, a contact information section for a security guard resume will look something like this:

John Doe
New York, NY
(555) 555-5555
johndoe@email.com

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Summary or Objective

Your resume should begin with a brief introduction, either a resume summary or an objective statement. This concise overview of your qualifications and enthusiasm for the job is your chance to make a strong first impression.

A resume summary is ideal if you have relevant work experience. In 2 – 3 sentences, highlight your professional background and key qualifications.

Here’s an example of a good resume summary for a security guard resume:

“Experienced security guard with over 5 years of experience in corporate and residential security. Skilled in surveillance, emergency response, and conflict resolution. Dedicated to maintaining safety and security.”

On the other hand, an objective statement is a better choice if you’re new to the field or changing careers. Outline your career goals and what you aim to achieve in your next position.

For example, a good objective statement for a security guard resume might say:

“Dedicated and vigilant individual seeking a security guard position to utilize strong observational and problem-solving skills in maintaining safety and security.”

No matter which one you choose, make sure to customize this statement for each job application. Use relevant keywords to ensure your resume stands out to applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Tailoring your statement to the specific job description can significantly boost your chances of getting noticed.

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Work History

Crafting your resume’s work history section is about showcasing your past job experiences in a way that highlights your responsibilities and achievements.

This is where you can really show potential employers what you’ve accomplished and how you can add value to their team.

Start by listing each job entry with the job title, employer, location, and dates of employment. This gives a clear and organized overview of your career journey. But don’t stop there – you want to dive deeper into what you actually did in each role.

When describing your duties, use action verbs to create a dynamic and engaging narrative. Words like “patrolled,” “monitored,” and “responded” are powerful and paint a clear picture of your capabilities.

Additionally, try to quantify your achievements whenever possible. Numbers provide concrete evidence of your impact and help your resume stand out.

For instance, rather than simply saying you “patrolled and monitored premises,” you could say you “reduced security incidents by 20% through proactive patrolling and monitoring.” This not only shows what you did but also highlights the positive outcomes of your actions.

Here’s an example of a job entry for the work history section of a security guard resume:

Security Guard
XYZ Security Services, New York, NY
January 2020 – Present

• • • • • Reduced security incidents by 20% through proactive patrolling and monitoring.
        • Responded promptly to alarms and incidents, ensuring swift resolution and minimizing disruption.
        • Conducted regular inspections of buildings and facilities, identifying and addressing potential security risks.
        • Implemented a new surveillance system that improved incident detection by 30%.
        • Trained new security staff on emergency protocols and surveillance techniques.

By following this approach, you can create a compelling work history section that effectively communicates your experience and achievements to potential employers.

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Skills

The skills section is crucial when crafting your security guard resume.

This is where you showcase both your hard skills and soft skills to potential employers, demonstrating that you have the technical know-how and the personal attributes to excel in the role.

Including both types of skills gives a well-rounded picture of your abilities and makes your resume stand out.

Top 5 Hard Skills for Security Guard Resumes

• • • • • Surveillance: This is essential for monitoring premises and identifying suspicious activities. Good surveillance skills help you maintain a safe environment by spotting potential threats early.
        • Emergency Response: Being able to handle emergencies effectively is crucial. Whether it’s a fire, medical situation, or security breach, your ability to respond quickly and appropriately can make all the difference.
        • Conflict Resolution: This skill is important for de-escalating tense situations. As a security guard, you often need to calm down heated situations and resolve conflicts without escalating them.
        • Physical Fitness: Physical fitness is necessary for patrolling and responding to incidents. It ensures you can perform your duties effectively, including standing for long periods and responding quickly to emergencies.
        • First Aid: Useful for providing immediate assistance in medical emergencies, first aid skills can be lifesaving and show your preparedness for any situation.

Top 5 Soft Skills for Security Guard Resumes

• • • • • Communication: Key for interacting with the public and law enforcement, strong communication skills help you convey important information clearly and effectively.
        • Attention to Detail: Vital for noticing security breaches and anomalies, attention to detail ensures you don’t miss critical signs that could indicate a security threat.
        • Problem-Solving: Important for addressing security issues swiftly, problem-solving skills help you think on your feet and find effective solutions to unexpected problems.
        • Teamwork: Essential for coordinating with other security personnel, teamwork ensures you can work effectively as part of a larger security team, which is crucial for maintaining safety.
        • Reliability: Crucial for maintaining a consistent security presence, being reliable means that your employer can count on you to be punctual, alert, and ready to perform your duties at all times.

Here’s an example of what a skills section might look like on a security guard resume:

Skills

• • • • • Surveillance: Expert in monitoring premises using CCTV and foot patrols.
        • Emergency Response: Trained in handling fire alarms, medical emergencies, and security breaches.
        • Conflict Resolution: Skilled in de-escalating tense situations and mediating disputes.
        • Physical Fitness: Capable of performing physically demanding tasks, including patrolling large areas.
        • First Aid: Certified in first aid and CPR, with experience providing immediate medical assistance.
        • Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with the public and reporting incidents.
        • Problem-Solving: Proven ability to quickly address and resolve security issues.
        • Collaboration: Works well in team settings, effectively coordinating with other security personnel.
        • Reliability: Dependable and punctual, maintaining a strong and consistent security presence.

However, you can also simplify your skills section like this:

Skills

• • • • • Attention to Detail
        • Access Control
        • Operating CCTV Systems
        • Loss Prevention
        • Bilingual: English/Spanish
        • First Aid/CPR
        • Crowd Control
        • Time-Management

By including a mix of hard and soft skills, you present yourself as a versatile and capable candidate ready to handle the diverse challenges of a security guard position.

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Education

Your educational background is an important part of your security guard resume, even if it’s not directly related to security. It helps paint a complete picture of your qualifications and background.

Here’s how to effectively present your education:

When listing your education, keep it simple and clear. Include the degree you obtained and the name of the institution. There’s no need to include your graduation date, especially if you think it might work against you due to age considerations or if it’s been a while since you graduated.

For example, your education section might look like this:

High School Diploma
Central High School, New York, NY

If you have any additional training or coursework related to security, you can include that as well. This could be anything from community college courses, vocational training, or even online courses that have provided you with relevant knowledge and skills. However, you can also create an additional section to highlight any specialized training.

Keeping this section straightforward and focused allows potential employers to quickly see your educational background and any relevant training, which complements the other sections of your resume.

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Additional Sections

Adding extra sections to your security guard resume can really help you stand out by showcasing your unique qualifications and experiences. These sections provide a fuller picture of who you are and what you bring to the table.

Here are some optional sections to consider and how each one can enhance your resume:

• • • • • Certifications: Including certifications on your resume can significantly boost your credibility. Certifications like CPR, first aid, or any specialized security training show that you have additional skills and knowledge beyond the basics. They demonstrate your commitment to the field and your preparedness to handle various situations.
        • Training: Detailing any additional training you’ve undergone can further highlight your expertise. This could include on-the-job training, workshops, or advanced security courses. Pursuing training indicates that you are dedicated to improving your skills and staying updated with the latest security practices.
        • Awards: Listing awards can showcase your achievements and recognition in the field. Awards highlight your dedication and excellence in your role, making you a more attractive candidate.
        • Volunteer Experience: Including volunteer experience can show your willingness to contribute to your community and gain experience outside of paid positions. Volunteer roles, especially those related to security or public safety, can demonstrate your initiative and altruism.
        • Professional Affiliations: Being a member of professional organizations can indicate your commitment to the security profession and your connection to a network of professionals. Affiliations can also provide opportunities for professional development and stay informed about industry trends.

By including these additional sections, you can enhance your security guard resume and provide a comprehensive view of your qualifications.

These sections not only showcase your skills and experiences but also your dedication to the profession, which will set you apart from other candidates!

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Top Certifications For Security Guards

Adding certifications to your resume can make it shine, showing potential employers that you have gone above and beyond to acquire specialized skills.

Here are five certifications that can significantly enhance your security guard resume:

• • • • • Certified Protection Officer (CPO): This certification demonstrates that you have advanced security skills and knowledge. It covers a wide range of topics, from asset protection to emergency procedures, making you a well-rounded candidate. Having a CPO certification shows employers that you are committed to maintaining high standards in the field of security.
        • First Aid/CPR Certification: This certification is crucial for any security guard, as it proves that you are prepared to handle medical emergencies. Being able to provide immediate assistance can be a life-saving skill and shows that you are ready to respond to a variety of situations, not just security threats.
        • Basic Security Officer Training (BSOT): This foundational training indicates that you have received a comprehensive education in security protocols and procedures. It covers everything from patrolling techniques to understanding legal regulations, making it an essential certification for anyone starting in the security field.
        • Firearms Training Certificate: This certification is a must if you’re aiming for an armed security position. It shows that you have been trained to handle and use firearms safely. This certification reassures employers that you can responsibly carry and potentially use a gun if necessary, which is a critical component for some security roles.
        • Surveillance Detection Course: Completing this course highlights your expertise in monitoring and detecting suspicious activities. It covers advanced surveillance techniques and helps you develop skills to recognize and respond to potential threats. This certification is particularly valuable for positions that require a high level of vigilance and observational skills.

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10 Tips For Writing A Security Guard Resume

1. Use a Professional Email Address: Your email address is often the first impression you make. Ensure it looks professional. Avoid using nicknames or outdated email providers. Stick to a simple format like firstname.lastname@example-email.com to show employers you’re serious about the job.
2. Tailor Your Resume for Each Job Application: One-size-fits-all doesn’t work for resumes. Customize your resume for each job by highlighting the skills and experiences most relevant to the specific security guard position you’re applying for. Review the job description and tweak your resume to reflect the keywords and requirements mentioned.
3. Highlight Relevant Skills and Experiences: Focus on showcasing your most pertinent skills and experiences. For example, if the job requires surveillance expertise, make sure to highlight your experience with monitoring systems and any relevant training you’ve completed.
4. Quantify Your Achievements: Numbers make your achievements stand out. Instead of saying you “patrolled premises,” say you “reduced incidents by 20% through regular and thorough patrols.” Quantifying your achievements provides concrete evidence of your impact.
5. Use Action Verbs: Start each bullet point with strong action verbs like “monitored,” “secured,” “responded,” or “implemented.” This makes your responsibilities and achievements sound more dynamic and impactful.
6. Keep the Layout Clean and Simple: A cluttered resume can be off-putting. Use a clean, easy-to-read layout with consistent formatting. Stick to simple fonts and clear headings to ensure your resume is easily navigable.
7. Proofread for Errors: Spelling and grammar mistakes can ruin a good resume. Proofread your resume multiple times, and consider asking a friend or family member to review it as well. An error-free resume shows attention to detail.
8. Include Relevant Keywords: Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes. To pass the ATS screening, include relevant keywords from the job description in your resume. This increases the chances of your resume being seen by a hiring manager.
9. Keep It Concise and Focused: Avoid overwhelming potential employers with too much information. Keep your resume concise and focused on the most relevant details. Aim for one page if possible, especially if you’re early in your security career.
10. Use a Resume Builder Tool to Streamline the Process: If you’re unsure where to start or how to format your resume, consider using a resume builder tool. These tools offer templates and guidance, making it easier to create a professional-looking resume quickly.