Are you aware of the sectors for which we provide security services? Please list at least three.

"I have researched Company ABC a great deal before coming here today. You serve a significant range of sectors, including banking, healthcare, and special private events. I have experience in security services for events and festivals, and I look forward to expanding my knowledge into other esteemed areas of security."

The hiring authority would like validation that you have researched Company ABC before your interview. Comb through their company website and Wikipedia page, taking special note of any 'Services' sections, and companies they highlight as valued clients. You should have a good understanding of what they do, who they serve, and within which industries before attending your interview.

"The security services that you offer range from security guards to mobile patrol, event security, and even technical security solutions. From my research, and what I understand, you serve clients such as (list a couple of current clients from their website)."

What type of security training have you received in the past?

"In my previous role, I received excellent training in police support services, which was an exciting opportunity. I was able to learn a lot about the logistics surrounding monitoring public areas and responding to lower-priority calls. I look forward to additional training with Company ABC as I am keen to grow in my security services career."

Walk the interviewer through any security training that you may have received from a previous security services position. Your coursework may be on your resume; however, the interviewer is not asking for another bulleted list. They want you to bring the training to life for them. Discuss which training you excelled in, which coursework was your favorite, or how you finished top of the class! If you are new to your career and without any formal training, that is okay too! Avoid leading with the negative (I don't have...) and, instead, lead with the positive and mention how you have taken the initiative to self-teach online for instance.

"Since applying to Company ABC I have taken the initiative to take an online course on security basics. I have learned the fundamentals of security services, safety, and best practices. I am eager to learn much more through your formal training program."

Company ABC believes in continued education opportunities. If given a chance to expand your training on any security services topic, which would you choose?

"I appreciate that Company ABC offers educational and training opportunities to employees! If given the opportunity to expand my knowledge in any specific area, I would choose to learn more about AI, Machine Learning, and Robots in Security. I believe this is where a significant focus will be very soon when it comes to security services."

When a potential employer mentions continued education opportunities, chances are, you're in a great place! Think about the future career opportunities that you would like to see with Company ABC and then draw a line between that goal, and what you need to learn to get there. Be sure to express excitement for continued education, and opportunities to expand your career.

"I am eager to carve out a successful career in the security services industry, and so I would choose to begin with the fundamentals of patrol and emergency response. I feel that with the right basics, I can grow an excellent career with Company ABC."

Of all the career options at Company ABC which is most interesting to you?

"I see that you are hiring for a high profile security guard to work on behalf of a luxury goods client. The bulk of my experience has been on jobs such as shopping mall or evening premise patrol. I would love to work my way into a role like this with more hours and responsibilities. I read that you require a Police Foundations or Law & Security diploma for a position such as this one. This education is something I am eager to complete over time so that I can earn similar roles in the future."

The purpose of this question is for the interviewer to gain assurance that you are interested in growing with their company over time. Before your interview, take some time to comb through the Company ABC careers website, making a note of any positions that may be of interest to you in the future. If anything catches your eye, read the job description, and learn a bit about what you would need to do to land a promotion into this role down the road.

"I am interested in being a loss prevention officer in a team lead function where I train and mentor other security services professionals. I see there are many opportunities to grow within Company ABC and this is just one of the many career options that I found fascinating when combing through your careers page."

Employees of Company ABC must pass a series of background checks including criminal, drug, and credit. Are you willing to comply?

"I am ready and willing to comply with any background check required. My record is clean; I have a strong credit history and am drug-free. I brought with me a copy of my recent police check that you are free to add to my candidate file."

For reasons that you are already aware, anyone hired for a security services position needs to comply with a robust vetting process. The hiring authorities at Company ABC must be very cautious on who they hire; for the safety of themselves, their clients, and the general public. As a security professional, you will be working with the public and with vulnerable individuals. Assure the interviewer that you are most willing to comply with any form of background check they require. If possible, bring a copy of a recent police background check with you to your interview. Although this action will not be everything the interviewer needs for your file, this will show initiative.

"I am willing to comply with any background and security check required. I have nothing to hide and am excited to begin my security services career with Company ABC."

Have you worked in cash protection services of any kind?

"For the past six years I have worked for an armored car service, providing cash protection services for a variety of banks in the area. I have moved significant amounts of cash successfully over the years; with zero incident or discrepancy."

Cash protection services can include: - Armored truck transport - Cash vault services - Bank or financial premise protection - ATM services, and moreWalk the interviewer through any experience you may have in this area by outlining who your clients or employers have been, perhaps the amount of money you were responsible for, and how many years experience you bring. If you lack experience in cash protection services, mention that you are keen to learn and train in this area of security services. Highlight the fact that you are trustworthy and honest; two essential traits required to work in a cash protection services based role.

"I am new to the cash protection services industry; however, I have firearm training and have worked in a customer service role for a bank where I received formal RAID training. I am eager to take this existing knowledge and apply it to this role with Company ABC."

At Company ABC, we aim for our name to be synonymous with integrity, and trust. How will you contribute to this goal?

"I will contribute to your company goals by being attentive in my training, making moral choices, doing what is right, and being a reliable and professional representative of the Company ABC name each day. Your organization has a solid reputation in our area, and I will do everything I can to uphold this excellent reputation."

This question is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you are their top choice for this role! Think of this inquiry as a variation of 'Why should we hire you?' The hiring authority would like to know how your characteristics and work ethic will align with the goals and mission of their company. Take some time to comb through the Company ABC website to learn about the ways that this employment opportunity will be mutually beneficial.

"I am seeking employment in the security services industry; however, not with just any company. I was thrilled to read through Company ABC reviews online from clients and employees alike. Your reputation certainly is one of integrity and trust. I will contribute to this goal by taking your mission statement to the heart rather than treating this as 'just a job.' This opportunity would kickstart my career, and I would be a dedicated employee from day one."

What are the three most essential steps in securing and controlling a building or premise?

"From my experience in providing security services for buildings, I would say that the three most essential steps to securing and controlling a building and premise include checking to ensure the video surveillance systems are working, that there is adequate lighting, and there are security officers strategically placed near entrances of points of vulnerability."

It's time to show the interviewer that you understand what goes into providing proper security services when it comes to building or premise management. Even if you do not have experience in this type of security service, you should be able to give an intuitive answer.

"My instinct tells me that the essential steps to securing a building come in the form of making sure that areas are well-lit, ensuring there is a good video surveillance system with strategically placed cameras, and a building entrance system controlled by keypad, fob, or swipe card. I look forward to learning more from my training at Company ABC."

Do you have experience monitoring a CCTV system? What do you know about CCTV technology?

"I currently have five security clients, and four of them have highly technical, integrated CCTV systems; some that transmit video to an on-site monitor and some that also have cloud integration, so the video stream is accessible in real-time from anywhere in the world. I was fully trained on these systems in a short time and am confident in my ability to learn the methods used by your clients."

CCTV is short for 'closed-circuit television.' CCTV is, essentially, video surveillance. A working CCTV system relies on the use of video cameras to transmit a signal to security monitors, allowing security professionals to monitor a particular area by video; whether on or off-site. Briefly break down the experience that you have with CCTV technology, being sure to express to the interviewer that you are capable when it comes to learning and effectively using new security technology.

"I am aware that CCTV transmits video surveillance to a monitoring location, allowing security services professionals to view one or many different areas of a building or premise at one time. I am tech savvy, having even installed a home alarm system for myself at one point. This experience makes me confident in my ability to quickly learn these systems used by Company ABC and your clients."

As a security professional for Company ABC you will be required to submit daily reports. Tell me about your writing skills and communication.

"In my current role I have checklists that I need to fill out every hour. In addition to this, I create a 300-600 word report at the end of every shift outlining any interactions that I had, any unusual activity, and the actions that I took. It's important that I log the time of these incidents and any small yet important details that may arise. My current supervisor often comments on how well laid out and clear my reports are. I take pride in my communication skills; both oral and written."

It's essential to Company ABC that you are a skilled communicator; especially when it comes to dealing with their clients and creating your daily reports. You could mention any courses you have taken in communication, journalism, or writing. Or, if you have on-the-job training in report writing, it would be smart to mention. Lastly, you could tell a story or give a specific example of a time when your communication skills improved a workplace situation. If you have a sample of your written communication, from a previous report you created, you can certainly bring that example with you if this does not breach any confidentiality agreements.

"I have a lot of experience with writing reports, from my time in university. My writing skills are strong, and I have taken coursework in report writing for business. I believe that great communication requires clear wording, the provision of important details, and the omission of unnecessary words or moot information."

Walk me through your experience with firearms. On a scale of 1-10, how comfortable are you around firearms?

"I am former military, highly trained in the use of various firearms and other weapons. My skill and comfortability level with firearms are a firm 10/10."

Depending on the role to which you are applying, you may be required to be armed on the job. If you have experience with firearms, be sure to outline your knowledge and be prepared to verify any current licensing or certifications. If you are new to firearms, that is okay too! Discuss whether you are interested in firearm training and working your way into a role where this is a requirement.

"My experience with firearms is limited; however, I see the importance of proper training. Should the use of firearms be a requirement of me as I grow my career in security services, I will be a keen student focused on safety and proper use."

Have you ever had to deal with an assault on the job; either towards you or another person? If so, what action steps did you take to diffuse the situation?

"I have had to deal with one violent incident on the job when working security for a bank. There was a potentially armed robber on premise. The first thing that I did was follow the banks' RAID procedures, which states that we are to follow the instructions of the armed robbers. One the event was over, I asked a civilian to call 911 while I checked on the wellbeing of the small group of people in the building, reminding them they were safe, and that it would be okay. When the police arrived, I gave a detailed description of the offenders and completed the necessary paperwork. It was important to me that I help everyone to remain calm and that I was as helpful as possible once the police arrived."

The interviewer would like to know more about the types of situations that you have had to deal with, on the job. If you have ever had to deal with an assault or violent situation on the job, take some time to walk the interviewer through the steps that you made. The idea here is to give a brief overview. Avoid going into too many details; thus, losing the attention of the interviewer. If you are newer to your career or have never had an experience like this, take some time to talk to the interviewer about what steps you would make. Since you may not have training in this, rely on your instincts.

"I have been lucky enough never to have faced an assault or violent situation on the job. If in this type of situation, I would follow my security training, while being keenly aware of everything around me so that I could give a helpful police report after the incident. I believe the most important thing to do during a situation like this is to remain as calm and level headed as possible."

"yes sir I had an assault on the job on my Factory gate no 1. That time I was on CCTV for surveillance. Factory union protests for some implementation in rules to the management, I put my bouncers and security guards there and order them to be calm and report if something happens but there is one union leader quarreling with security staff. Then I went there and brief him very politely about our duties and Factory regulations and report to my security champion about him."

As a security guard, how do you spend your downtime, on the job?

"When I have some downtime, I first go to my security reports and follow up on complaints and inquiries. This task often involves calling people or visiting them to discuss the issue and break down what we have done or will do, to help them. It's important to me that I keep myself busy during every shift so that my employer is getting the best of me."

If you are working as a security guard on foot or mobile patrol, you know that every moment is not action-packed, crime-fighting, keep your eyes peeled, or 'write home to mom' level of excitement. Talk to the interviewer about what you do with your time when a specific task does not occupy all of your attention.

"I imagine that there may be some time during a shift; primarily night shifts, where there is less to do from an immediate security perspective. To make sure that every minute matters, I would do my paperwork, follow up on security complaints, or test my equipment to ensure everything is working as it should."

Are you familiar with IP based video systems, and other new security technologies?

"In my current role we use tech such as CCTV, IP based video systems, and even more recently, I saw the introduction of autonomous data machines and robots in the use of security monitoring. It's thrilling to see the changes in tech and how far we have come in just a few short years. I am capable of learning new tech and am keen on the introduction of new technologies."

There is a great deal of technology available to make our lives safer, and the interviewer would like to know how familiar you are with the choices available. If you are newer to your career, you may not be aware of more than just the basics. If this is the case, focus your answer on what you do know and be sure to express that you are willing to learn. If you are seasoned in the security services industry, you could talk about how you have seen technology shift and improve over the years. Mention the type of security equipment and technology in which you bring experience.

"I have exposure to some CCTV equipment as well as other monitoring options, more from a consumers point of view. I am technically savvy and look forward to learning how to use these robust systems."

Do you have current certification in First Aid, and CPR?

"I hold a valid certification in both First Aid and CPR. My certs are valid for another two years. I did bring them with me so that you can make copies for your records."

This question is pretty basic, considering it's either a yes or no answer. With that said, the interviewer would like to see you elaborate on details such as when you received your certification, and when your certs are up for renewal. Be sure to bring your certifications with you so that the hiring authority can take copies for your candidate file. If you are not certified, express that you are willing to obtain this certification on your own time. Chances are, Company ABC may put you through the training once hired; however, it's nice to offer as this shows enthusiasm and initiative.

"After reading in the Company ABC job posting that you require valid certification in First Aid and CPR, I registered to take these courses at the community college. The first course begins in three days so; I am happy to say that I will soon be certified."

Tell me about any customer service training you have received.

"I would love to know more about the customer service training that you offer at Company ABC. I have a great instinct when it comes to delivering customer service; partly due to my personality but also because of the excellent training I received in my last security position. I can confidently read a person, discover their needs, and uncover ways that I can help."

Company ABC knows that exceptional security services are all about customer service and the level of service they provide to each of their valued clients. Walk the interviewer through any formal customer service training you have received in the past. Maybe you have worked in retail, or hospitality where you received on-the-job training on how to relate to a customer, be helpful, properly greet people, or diffuse conflict. Maybe you have trained yourself by reading books on the subject, listening to podcasts, or reading articles online. As well trained as you may be, it's also essential that you show the interviewer your continued interest in bettering your customer service delivery. If you are not sure about the training you will receive with Company ABC, you can ask for specifics.

"I am newer to my career so I cannot say that I have received any customer service-specific training; however, I have listened to podcasts on the subject - primarily 'The Modern Customer' podcast. I would be happy to take any training that you recommend and would like to learn more about the training offered here at Company ABC. I look forward to serving your valued clients."

What would cause you to lose your temper on the job?

"I have seen other security professionals lose their temper, and it always seems highly unprofessional. I have never lost my temper on the job because I feel that the better way to command respect is to be collected and poised. If I were to lose my temper on the job, it would have to be in the midst of a very high-stress, aggressive situation where I am in a corner, and safety threats were present; whether against me or anyone else."

As a security professional, it is crucial that you maintain control and poise each day. By doing so, you command authority and build trust. With that said, the interviewer knows that everyone has their threshold, and no day in the security industry is the same. Provide an example of what may cause you to become upset but assure the hiring authority that you would never lose your temper at work. You can mention any techniques and tricks that you apply to ensure an even-keeled temperament.

"I cannot think of a scenario where I would lose my cool on the job. With that said; I have zero tolerance for violence or threats against other people. If faced with a situation of violence, I would use full force to stop the situation. Typically, I have a very calm and collected personality. If I feel my blood pressure rising, I remind myself that the most emotional person in any given situation is most likely to lose. This reminder keeps me in check."

Tell me about a time when you acted with integrity when nobody was around to know otherwise.

"I am true to myself at all times, which means that I always act in a way that honors my beliefs. Just the other week I stopped into a new restaurant for lunch. I had two pints, an appetizer, and an entree. When the bill came, I took it to pay and noticed that the server did not ring in my second round of drinks. I could have just laid down enough cash and left, but I chose to tell her. It was important to me that I did the right thing by the server, but also that I support this new restaurant by being an honest customer."

To be a trusted security services professional, you must hold integrity as a top value. To have integrity means that you have strong moral values, no matter the situation. You uphold those morals whether or not anyone is around to see your actions. When you have integrity, you are honest and do the right thing, no matter what variables are at hand. Tell a quick story about a time when you acted with integrity, even if you could have made other choices without consequence. This story could include returning a lost wallet, taking an item from a store when you know it wasn't scanned and included on your bill, or even reminding the server at the restaurant that you had two cocktails and your bill reflected just one.

"I love to go hiking on the weekends, and one particular weekend, I found a wallet on the path. It must have been dropped not long before I arrived at the spot because it was still intact, with $500 cash and all! I looked at the photo ID inside the wallet and kept an eye out for the rightful owner on the path. I ended up running into them further down the path and returned the wallet. It always feels better to do the right thing."

What would you do if a civilian called you a racial slur or another derogatory term, while you were patrolling?

"From my experience, I have been called racial slurs and other derogatory terms like 'rent-a-cop' for instance. When people see a uniform but know that you are not a police officer, they sometimes like to push the envelope and see what they can get away with doing. I continue in my job and ignore them unless they become a safety threat."

It is critical, in the security services industry, that you remain in control at all times. For this reason, the interviewer at Company ABC is looking for signs or red flags indicating that you may be short tempered. Even in terrible and uncomfortable situations, you cannot let your feelings or emotions get the better of you. Discuss what you would do if you felt verbally attacked while on patrol, by a random passerby (This example is not referring to a situation where there is an actual safety threat). If this has happened to you in the past, you can use your real-life example.

"If someone were to be rude, I would ignore them. My job is to protect people, my clients' premises, and their belongings. It's not my job to care what other people think of me. Keeping my cool, and never internalizing a rude comment, is always the best choice."

Our security services team must be physically fit and able to react in situations requiring a fast response. How do you ensure peak fitness and performance?

"I keep myself healthy by going to the gym regularly. I enjoy running and am currently training for my first half marathon. I believe that being in peak physical condition also helps me to stay on top of my game when it comes to mental awareness on the job."

The interviewer needs to know that you meet the physical and mental demands of this job. Depending on the position at hand, there may be a fit test; however, it's more likely that the interviewer will gauge your abilities by general appearance and how you answer questions like this one. Briefly discuss the ways that you ensure top mental and physical performance at all times.

"I ensure peak performance, in all ways, by taking care of myself and eating right. It's important to me that my mind is sharp; allowing me to think quickly on my feet when situations arise that need immediate action."

Whether you were caught or not, have you ever committed a crime?

"As a teen, I did get into some trouble. One day, when I was just 14, I was pressured into stealing a candy bar at the gas station. I did not get caught, but I felt so terrible that I could hardly sleep for a week. The chocolate didn't even taste good! I went back a few days later and paid them back, admitting what I did."

Company ABC puts a great deal of emphasis on integrity and honesty. When it comes to the difference of being a good person, and being a person with integrity, we are talking about the fine line of doing what's right when people are looking, and doing what's right in any situation. Answer honestly, but keep it simple and to the point.

If you have never committed a crime: "I have never committed a crime. I was raised to be an honest person and to respect other people, their property, and myself. I believe there is a vast difference between honesty and integrity. When you are a person of integrity, you take the concept of honesty a step further and have a higher level of respect for your moral compass."

Do you have a long-range career objective in security services?

"I am a committed employee, as you can see from the six years I have spent with my current company and the five years tenure in the role before. Now, I am looking to make a long-term career change into a company like Company ABC that offers more growth opportunities within security services. While browsing your website, I set my eyes on a Corporate Security Officer Trainer opportunity. This role is one that I would like to earn my way into, over the years, with your support."

Company ABC has many available options when it comes to growing your career within their organization. If you are not sure of the opportunities available to you, visit their careers website, and search around their current openings. By doing this exercise, you can learn a lot about what will be available to you now, and in the future. One of the objectives of this question is for the interviewer to get an idea if this role and industry are a long-term fit for you. Be open with the interviewer about your ambitions within Company ABC on a short and long-term basis. Share what promotions you hope to eventually receive and discuss what you wish to learn from being a part of their organization.

"My long-term goal within security services is to move into a field-based training role; ideally working with new security recruits. That said, I know there is a long way to go to get there, so my initial goal is to earn a senior security guard opportunity. I love that you advertise promoting from within, and I look forward to the opportunity to rise through the ranks here at Company ABC."

Security is a 24/7 service. What are your preferred hours?

"I am available to work during regular daytime hours, any day of the week. If you need me for the odd evening shift, I am happy to do what I can to accommodate. Also, I understand that weekends and holidays may be a requirement in this position."

Many security professionals work shifts that can range from early mornings, evenings, and midnight shifts. Depending on your seniority, you may be required to work on holidays and weekends. If you have restrictions in your schedule, this is the best time to mention your scheduling needs. It's best that you are to the point, and give a clear breakdown of what you are willing and able to do when it comes to your work schedule. It's essential to keep your wording positive. So, rather than stating what you can't do - start with what you can.

"My preferred hours are evenings as most of my days are spent attending classes. I am also available to work holidays and weekends. I understand that situations can change on a dime, so I will do my best to be flexible and available when needed."

With many options available in security services, why do you want to work for Company ABC?

"One reason Company ABC stands out to me as a wonderful employer is that your training program is second to none. You offer a range of continued education opportunities such as (list from website). I admire and value your focus on employee development and continued education."

There are security jobs of all kinds available to you so the interviewer would like to know why you have chosen to apply for a role with Company ABC. This question offers you the opportunity to shine and show off all of the research you have performed on their business before your interview. Come up with a couple of compelling reasons why Company ABC stands apart from their competitors. If you give a canned response such as 'you have a good reputation,' your answer will fall flat. Be specific and genuine.

"Company ABC is the undeniable giant in the security industry in our area. I have been planning my job search since I left the military and wanted to join an organization that was well-known and well-supported by the community, with a strong client list. There are so many growth opportunities here, and that truly excites me."

Have you ever been fired from a security-related job?

"Earlier in my career, I was let go for being late to work. I took ownership of my actions, and although it was a frustrating situation, I certainly learned a lesson. Now, I am at least five minutes early for everything!"

If you have ever experienced job termination, you know that this is a highly dreaded interview question. BUT! There is no need to freak out when you have a very professional answer memorized and ready to go. Being fired happens to the best of us and often for situations that are out of our control. The only way to answer a question like this is to own up to it and explain the situation in brief. Finish up your response by highlighting what you learned.

"I am thankful for having never experienced a termination. With that said, if I am not performing up to my employers' standards, I would appreciate a frank conversation so that I have the opportunity to adjust my approach and better meet expectations."

When I call them, what will your references say about your communication skills?

"I believe my co-workers would say that I am a good listener. I like to give advice only when it's asked. I am also great with detail, which makes me an effective trainer for our new hires."

The security services industry requires professionals who are highly skilled in communication. Being an exceptional communicator means that you clearly give and receive messages, you actively listen, you can read your audience and pick up on social queues. Discuss what you believe your references will say about your communication skills.

"When you call my references, they will say that I am always improving my skills when it comes to written and oral communication. English is a second language for me, so it's important to me that I continue to learn and improve. I pick up on social queues, and people seem to enjoy being around me."

What do you know about the workplace culture here at Company ABC?

"I have researched Company ABC and I am impressed with the focus you place on respect and trust in the workplace. You honor your employees by offering the best training in the security industry, and you honor your customers with fully backed guarantees. I am thoroughly impressed with what I have seen from Company ABC so far."

Workplace culture is an all-encompassing term for what makes a business great, based on its values, attitude towards employees and customers, it's missions, traditions, and more. To gather this information, you will need to check out the Company ABC website; primarily their 'About Us' page and their careers section. Check to see if they have a mission statement geared explicitly towards their workforce. Perhaps they have comments on diversity and inclusion, and equal opportunity employment. Show the hiring authority that you have put thought, research, and consideration into how the company culture at Company ABC will work for you.

"In your mission statement, you mention that your primary focus is the safety and wellbeing of your clients, employees, and the public. I see that you firmly value integrity, honesty, and transparency in everything that you do. You promote employees from within, which tells me that you invest in your people, their training, and their professional growth."

Tell me about one challenge that you overcame in your last position.

"The biggest challenge I overcame in my previous position was the lack of training. I had some security experience; however, never in the armed vehicle sector. At first, this lack of training made doing my job feel very uncomfortable, but as I became more confident in my role, I learned what an asset I could be in the security industry. By taking my training into my own hands, asking for help from seasoned employees, and getting my hands on some great online resources, I trained myself in everything that I needed to know. Now, as a result, continued education and exceptional training are factors that I specifically look for from my next employer."

Try answering this question in three parts. First, outline for the interviewer what the situation was that you needed to overcome. Second, talk about the action that you took to overcome the challenge. Third, mention the positive results of the steps you took. Keep your story easy to follow and avoid using technical terms, names of colleagues, or insider information that the interviewer may not know.

"While attending university, I had an incredibly tight schedule that rarely allowed me to get from class to class on time. Since I did not want to drop classes or change my schedule around, I decided to speak with my professors about my dilemma. We agreed that I could leave each class just 5 minutes early so that I could arrive on time to the next. By having this open conversation with my professors, they knew that I was not a disengaged student but, in fact, one that cares."

I am interested in knowing more about the job movement on your resume. Why did you leave your last position?

"I left my last job once the owner announced that he would be selling the small security company to our competitor. Initially, I joined the organization to learn from him, which I was able to do for the past five years since we were such a small business owner. I left without another position lined up only because I had not taken a vacation in almost three years. I spent the summer in Italy with my family and am now ready to enter the workforce again."

This question, or some variation of it, is very likely to be asked of you in most interviews. First, hiring authorities want to know that they understand your reasons for leaving a job. Second, if your movement is frequent, they want to know how they can ensure you would stay longer-term with them. Maybe you were terminated, or you left without notice. Perhaps you and your family relocated to another city. Whatever your reasons, the interviewer needs assurance that you are going to commit long term to Company ABC. In the eyes of most recruiters and hiring authorities, they prefer to see no more than two roles every five years. If your job movement is more frequent than this, be prepared with a powerful and genuine response. Pro Tip: Have a rehearsed statement that includes a valid and unique reason for every position on your resume. 'The role was no longer a fit' is NOT an answer that will fare well. Neither is a vague reply like, 'There was no room to grow.'

"Bouncing from one role to another is not my style, which is why it was tough for me to leave my job after just six weeks. This job was my first opportunity out of university, which made the change even more difficult. The environment was not ideal, and management turned a blind eye to issues such as theft. I did a gut-check and knew that I could not work there and maintain my moral values at the same time. I was more careful to send out targeted applications this time around, ensuring that I applied to companies like Company ABC where integrity matters. I look forward to finding a long term home here."

The security services industry is ever-changing. How do you remain up to date on security-related trends and topics?

"I am always interested in reading about the new tech releases, making security services even more effective. Most often, I read The Police Journal and Security Magazine. I subscribe to them digitally so that I never miss an important article."

The hiring authority is looking for a genuine interest in the security services industry. Maybe you read law-enforcement related books, subscribe to security-related journals or subscribe to a blog related to security tech. Briefly share with the interviewer how you stay up to date on trends, and topics in the security services industry.

"I recently read an article about AI, robotics, and how these advancements and shifting the security services industry. I have some Google alerts set to help me stay on top of these and other related security topics."

Security Services Interview Questions

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1. Are you aware of the sectors for which we provide security services? Please list at least three.
2. What type of security training have you received in the past?
3. Company ABC believes in continued education opportunities. If given a chance to expand your training on any security services topic, which would you choose?
4. Of all the career options at Company ABC which is most interesting to you?
5. Employees of Company ABC must pass a series of background checks including criminal, drug, and credit. Are you willing to comply?
6. Have you worked in cash protection services of any kind?
7. At Company ABC, we aim for our name to be synonymous with integrity, and trust. How will you contribute to this goal?
8. What are the three most essential steps in securing and controlling a building or premise?
9. Do you have experience monitoring a CCTV system? What do you know about CCTV technology?
10. As a security professional for Company ABC you will be required to submit daily reports. Tell me about your writing skills and communication.
11. Walk me through your experience with firearms. On a scale of 1-10, how comfortable are you around firearms?
12. Have you ever had to deal with an assault on the job; either towards you or another person? If so, what action steps did you take to diffuse the situation?
13. As a security guard, how do you spend your downtime, on the job?
14. Are you familiar with IP based video systems, and other new security technologies?
15. Do you have current certification in First Aid, and CPR?
16. Tell me about any customer service training you have received.
17. What would cause you to lose your temper on the job?
18. Tell me about a time when you acted with integrity when nobody was around to know otherwise.
19. What would you do if a civilian called you a racial slur or another derogatory term, while you were patrolling?
20. Our security services team must be physically fit and able to react in situations requiring a fast response. How do you ensure peak fitness and performance?
21. Whether you were caught or not, have you ever committed a crime?
22. Do you have a long-range career objective in security services?
23. Security is a 24/7 service. What are your preferred hours?
24. With many options available in security services, why do you want to work for Company ABC?
25. Have you ever been fired from a security-related job?
26. When I call them, what will your references say about your communication skills?
27. What do you know about the workplace culture here at Company ABC?
28. Tell me about one challenge that you overcame in your last position.
29. I am interested in knowing more about the job movement on your resume. Why did you leave your last position?
30. The security services industry is ever-changing. How do you remain up to date on security-related trends and topics?

Security Services Interview Questions

1. Are you aware of the sectors for which we provide security services? Please list at least three.

2. What type of security training have you received in the past?

3. Company ABC believes in continued education opportunities. If given a chance to expand your training on any security services topic, which would you choose?

4. Of all the career options at Company ABC which is most interesting to you?

5. Employees of Company ABC must pass a series of background checks including criminal, drug, and credit. Are you willing to comply?

6. Have you worked in cash protection services of any kind?

7. At Company ABC, we aim for our name to be synonymous with integrity, and trust. How will you contribute to this goal?

8. What are the three most essential steps in securing and controlling a building or premise?

9. Do you have experience monitoring a CCTV system? What do you know about CCTV technology?

10. As a security professional for Company ABC you will be required to submit daily reports. Tell me about your writing skills and communication.

11. Walk me through your experience with firearms. On a scale of 1-10, how comfortable are you around firearms?

12. Have you ever had to deal with an assault on the job; either towards you or another person? If so, what action steps did you take to diffuse the situation?

13. As a security guard, how do you spend your downtime, on the job?

14. Are you familiar with IP based video systems, and other new security technologies?

15. Do you have current certification in First Aid, and CPR?

16. Tell me about any customer service training you have received.

17. What would cause you to lose your temper on the job?

18. Tell me about a time when you acted with integrity when nobody was around to know otherwise.

19. What would you do if a civilian called you a racial slur or another derogatory term, while you were patrolling?

20. Our security services team must be physically fit and able to react in situations requiring a fast response. How do you ensure peak fitness and performance?

21. Whether you were caught or not, have you ever committed a crime?

22. Do you have a long-range career objective in security services?

23. Security is a 24/7 service. What are your preferred hours?

24. With many options available in security services, why do you want to work for Company ABC?

25. Have you ever been fired from a security-related job?

26. When I call them, what will your references say about your communication skills?

27. What do you know about the workplace culture here at Company ABC?

28. Tell me about one challenge that you overcame in your last position.

29. I am interested in knowing more about the job movement on your resume. Why did you leave your last position?

30. The security services industry is ever-changing. How do you remain up to date on security-related trends and topics?