5 Security Interview Questions and Answers

Security guards and officers often work in stressful situations and encounter stress on the job. The way an applicant responds to this question should show you that the individual can handle the challenges of security work. Some of the responses to look for include taking a few deep breaths or talking things out with others on the job. Responsible officers also know when to take a break and walk away. What to look for in an answer:

• Any possible anger management issues
• Willingness to consult with other workers
• Ability to handle stress on the job

Though security professionals are responsible for patrolling and keeping an eye on the site, they also need to know what to do when they see issues in front of them. This question is a good one to ask because it lets the applicant hear about those situations and decide how to respond to a fight. A candidate should feel confident in both stopping the fight and calling the police. What to look for in an answer:

• Decision-making skills
• Knowledge of when to call for and get extra help
• Ability to manage potential impulse behaviors and thoughts

As some think security officers and guards can use weapons such as pepper spray and batons, this question will help you weed out applicants who believe force is always necessary. You really want to look for candidates who believe that their voices are all they need. Both children and adults respond to a sharp tone. A security professional can defuse most situations with a short speech or sentence. What to look for in an answer:

• Focus on brains and voice
• Ability to use creative thinking in the field
• Less emphasis on security tools and weapons

Those who work outside of standard business hours sometimes feel comfortable breaking the rules. They send texts and play on their phones or take naps on the job. While breaking the rules together can build camaraderie, you want security workers who can follow the rules of your company. Look for applicants who have a set answer to this question and those who will tell employers the truth. What to look for in an answer:

• Willingness to follow established rules
• Ability to tell right from wrong
• Commitment to the personal safety of guests and workers

Closed-circuit televisions are a major component that security professionals use on the job. They often use devices to interact with one another while on patrol and computers to write up their reports. The best applicants will feel comfortable using basic word processing software on a computer and other electronic devices. You may also want to look for those who are confident driving smart cars or golf carts on the job. Now is also a good time to make sure the applicant has a clean driving record. What to look for in an answer:

• Familiarity with tech devices and gadgets such as computers
• Skill level with and past use of those gadgets
• Ability to learn on the job as needed