Teamwork is often defined by the combined actions completed by a group of people working together.  Teamwork is important in every successful organization.  For private security companies, teamwork is the foundation to maintaining efficient security services.  The entire security team should always show a strong display of teamwork.  The security guards, the supervisors, the office managers, and the clients must all work as a unified team in order to maximize the effectiveness of the private security services.

The teamwork starts from the beginning of the initial consultation between the private security firm and the client.  The first thing the security guard company should do is establish that strong sense of teamwork with the client.  Private security is a two-way street because the safety of all persons, including the security guards, is the number one priority.  Constant communication between the security guards, supervisors, and management staff with the client is the foundation to successful security operations.  If communication strategies are not efficient, then both the client’s property and the safety of the security guards are at risk.

At some job sites, there will be multiple private security guards working together to protect the client’s assets, people, and property.  Many times, the security guards will not be adjacent to one another.  With security guards spread out, it is important that they have an efficient way of communicating with one another, such as a radio or walkie-talkie.  Usually, but depending on the job site, security guards who have been separated for long periods of time should convene and provide each other with updates.  Officer safety checks are an important aspect of teamwork in the private security industry.

Field supervisors should also communicate with the on-duty security guards often, and vice versa.  Questions and concerns will arise during a shift, from both the supervisors and the security guards.  Additionally, field supervisors should conduct random site visits in order to ensure that the security guard is not only present, but is also alert and ready.  Finally, an onsite security supervisor should be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days per year so that the client and security guards on duty always have a means to communicate and maintain effective teamwork.

The client and the private security company are a team.  Some clients will actively desire all information as soon as possible and other clients will want a more passive notification unless an emergency.  It is important that these boundaries are discussed and maintained in order to maintain a positive sense of teamwork throughout the business relationship.  Additionally, the security guards on site should get to know the client and the business which they are representing as a team.  Finally, when new security guards are assigned to a new client, it is advised that the two parties have a casual conversation, establish expectations, and review protocol.  Doing so will build rapport and teamwork, while ensuring successful security operations.