Top Tips For Applying For Jobs In Security

Top Tips For Applying For Jobs In Security

Searching For Jobs

Before you start applying for jobs, you should consider a number of important factors when picking the right job for you. In some cases, and often more specifically in security, jobs are offered outside of the legal requirements. Be aware that the national living wage for over 25 is currently £8.21 (as of April 2019) and is on the rise.

When looking through job adverts, read through the job specification and make sure you fully understand the exact requirements of the job. This is important to ensure that it is something that you want to do but also, that you have the right qualifications and experience for the job.

Applying For Jobs

When you have found a job you would like to apply for, make sure you have prepared your application and your CV in a way that makes it easy for employers to consider your application.  You should ask yourself the following questions:

  1. Is your CV relevant to the job you are applying for? It is sometimes a good idea to tailor your CV to each job that you apply for. By doing this you can highlight your skills and experience that is most appropriate for the job you are applying for and leave off things that are not necessary for that specific job role.
  2. Have you included the details of your SIA licence within your CV or Application Form? You would be surprised how many people apply for jobs in security that fail to include this on their CV. Without this information, it is difficult for employers to know whether you are suitable for a licenced role.
  3. Is your CV longer than two pages? If so, consider shortening it to these requirements. If it is longer than two pages it may include information that is not necessary to the role and will take employers longer to get to the information that may be crucial to your employment. Making your information clear and readable is a good way to make you stand out from other applicants.
  4. Have you included a five-year working history? Most security companies will follow vetting and screening procedures on all of their employees and therefore will require a five-year working history. By including this within your CV or Application Form employers can be confident you will be able to work for them.
  5. Are you applying for a job due to relocation? If so, be sure to include this within your CV or covering letter, otherwise, employers may discount your application for living too far away from the job you have applied for.
  6. Finally, do you have an appropriate email address? Using an email address with just your name and surname is a good way to look professional rather than using silly nicknames.

Attending Interviews

When you have arranged an interview for a prospective job it is generally a good idea to do some research about the company you are looking to work for. Find out their mission and values, and then prepare yourself with a few questions to ask about the company. In an interview, this will highlight your interest in working for the company and may ensure you stand out from other interviewees.

It is also a good idea to do some research about the location of the interview, the parking arrangements or how far it is from the nearest train or bus station. Do not be afraid to phone the company for some further information on how to get to the interview if you are unsure.

When arriving at the interview, ensure you turn up looking smart and presentable. While security is not generally a suit and tie formality, dressing like a ‘security guard’ seems far more appropriate than looking like you are turning up in your pyjamas.

Also, be prepared to answer questions within the interview, look over the information you included within your CV and be ready to go through scenarios and/or tests such as the phonetic alphabet.

Finally, if for a particular reason you are unable to attend the interview, don’t just ignore it. If you do ignore it, this will likely discount you from further employment opportunities with the same company. It is ok if you are unable to attend, just send a polite email or even better phone the company to send your apologies.



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