The Security officer of Tomorrow – key traits and wage increases.

The Security officer of Tomorrow – key traits and wage increases.

Our Vision

The Security Officer of Tomorrow would be a true professional. Trained to a high standard, respected and confident with the use of modern technology.  They should be motivated to perform their duties to the best of their abilities and properly equipped to provide the service that is required of them.

 

“No longer the traditional vision of a ‘night watchman’…”

The Industry can no longer support the traditional vision of a ‘night watchman’. The role should be multi-layered and keep the Security Officer busy. It is not a sedentary role with a few ‘token patrols’ thrown in for good measure. Security Officers should be dedicated to fulfilling their duties enthusiastically and be constantly looking for ways to add value for the clients. They are in a unique position where they are an employee of a security provider but also form part of a part of the client’s team. It is important that they have the necessary interpersonal and customer service skills in order to bring the most to their role.

Security officer of tomorrow - An example of client feedback

The client has their part to play in the development of the Security Officer of Tomorrow. This can be achieved by appreciating the value that a Security Officer adds to their business, embracing them as a hard working member of the team.

“A career rather than a stop-gap job…”

The industry is already heading in the right direction with Security Apprenticeships and more advanced training. Security should be a proper career path rather than a ‘stop gap’ job. But there is still a long way to go as many officers find it hard to adjust to the new vision of security.  For change to take hold, it is necessary for Security Companies to develop their team and the roles which they undertake, continually improving the service delivery.

 

A minimum wage industry

Unfortunately, it is unlikely that the new National Living Wage will make a dramatic difference to the industry.  Those on the lower end of the pay scale will steadily rise but those on the higher end of the pay scale will likely remain as they are. Eventually the gap will close and the entire industry will be a ‘minimum wage’ industry.

Companies and customers should strive to pay above the National Living Wage, regardless of age. When there is a change in government legislation, companies should be aiming for an equivalent percentage increase to their staff wages, keeping the differentials in place.

Security officer of tomorrow - Coins lined up to the amount of the current minimum wage as of 2017 - £7.50

Well paid and well-motivated staff are the key to providing consistency and quality…”

Well paid and well-motivated staff are the key to providing consistency and quality to clients who should be encouraged to pay a rate that allows for higher than National Living Wage payments. This will help in getting the best from the labour market and encouraging new people to join the industry.

Security should be seen as a profession.  Officers have to undergo training and pay for a licence to perform their duties. It should not be considered a low skilled, minimum wage job.



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