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Introduction to Security

Chapter 2The Private Security Professional

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Private Security Professionalism

Definitions of professionalism vary. Some of this is due to the fact that

there is no one, clear cut definition of “professionalism”.

Some Meanings: Non-amateur An important job

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Private Security Professionalism

1. Specialized Knowledge• The training and equipment in the

security field must advances as criminal activity does.

• Networking and keeping up on the latest developments, either in person, electronically, or through print materials is essential.

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College and the Security Professional

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Private Security Professionalism

2. Autonomy• The ability to control entrance into the

profession• The ability to self-monitor and

discipline• The power of this position is usually

authorized by the power of the state

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Private Security Professionalism

3. A Service Ideal• Requires that members of the

profession follow a formal code of ethics (Figures 2.2 and 2.3)

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The Place of Private Security in the Organizational Structure

In many organizations, the creation of a security force is in response to losses or events that have occurred.

This can result in a disorganized approach to security. It is important for security to be an integrated part of the organization, instead of an afterthought.

Private security should be a priority concern for top level management.

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The Place of Private Security in the Organizational Structure

The Chief Security Officer & the CIO Due to the rapid development of

electronic business, there is a convergence (coming together) of the positions of Chief Security Officer and the person in charge of information security (CIO) in some companies.

There needs to be a clear understanding of each position’s duties, as well as cooperation.

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The Place of Private Security in the Organizational Structure

The CSO & the Human Resources Department These positions should share the job of

screening job applicants HR’s responsibility is to get a qualified

person hired quickly; the CSO’s job is to hire the safest person.

The CSO should also be aware of firings/layoffs.

The CSO as a Leader

Leaders work with and through others to accomplish an organizations goals.

What leaders do: Leaders create a compelling vision Leaders achieve higher level of

performance Leaders as innovative Leaders focus on articulating strategy

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Key Competencies of the CSO

There are a variety of competencies that the CSO should possess in order to be able to function effectively in an organization.

The following is a short list of some of those competencies…

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Key Competencies of the CSO

Relate to and communicate with senior executives, Board of Directors, etc.

Understand the strategic direction and goals of the organization

Understand and assess the impact of changes in the areas of economics, geopolitics, and organizational design and technology

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Key Competencies of the CSO

Ensure security incidents and related ethical issues are investigated and resolved

Be politically astute but not politically motivated

Be realistic and comprehend the need to assess financial, employee or customer implications or any plan/recommendation

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Administrative Responsibilities of the Security Director

Administrative: policies, procedures, daily operations, budget, and education

Establishing security goals and objectives

Establishing policies, procedures, and daily orders

Establishing financial controls and budgets

Establishing educational programs

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The Hiring Process

When hiring, we must keep in mind our vicarious liability, or the responsibility we have for the actions of our employees.

Firms are increasingly being held responsible for the negligent hiring and retention of problem employees.

It is our responsibility to maintain a quality hiring process.

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The Hiring Process outlined:

Establish minimum pre-employment standards

The application Tests (basic knowledge, skills) Interviews Background investigations Medical examination (basic health,

drug screens) Offer of employment

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Training

Management frequently does not want to spend the time and money necessary to train personnel because of high turnover rates. Preassignment training Ongoing training Andragogical training

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Inspections

Inspections can include both officers and facilities. They may include checking for: Presence of all personnel Presence of all required equipment Orderly appearance of personnel and

site Operability of equipment Preparation of inspection result reports

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Discipline and Corrective Actions

One of the most difficult things for many managers is to take disciplinary actions

When appropriate, thinking of these actions as corrective in nature helps all employees involved realize these actions are meant to be constructive in nature.

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Effective Management Guidelines:

Create a safe, pleasant work environment

Be open to suggestions, input Give credit when deserved Keep employees informed Be fair and impartial Act when necessary Set a good example (impossible to

overstate how important this is)

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Certification

Certification is becoming an increasingly common requirement for security personnel.

Approximately 55% of all security personnel are required to have some type of certification.

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Categories of Certification:

ASIS Certified Protection Professional (CPP) Meet certain standards of performance Have a certain number of years of

experience Meet educational requirements Demonstrate a high level of competence Encourage continuing education Pass a comprehensive security

examination

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Security Personnel & Public Relations:

Proper attire and actions make a positive impression

Friendly, polite greetings and answers

Officers should understand what they are guarding and why it is important.

Understanding of company policies and procedures