Body Language

Body Language

A professional security guard must be able to communicate either in writing, verbally, and non-verbally.  Reading and communicating with non-verbal or body language signals can be very useful.  Let’s discuss some of the signs many people give off. 

EYE CONTACTThey say that the eyes are the windows to the soul, so the importance of eye contact cannot be underrated.  Security guards should maintain consistent, non-aggressive eye contact when communicating with people.

BODY POSITIONINGSecurity officers need to avoid looking stiff. Standing with arms crossed across one’s chest can be considered aggressive or make the officer look unapproachable.  Hands in one’s pocket may convey that the officer is too casual and unengaged in their work, and the same is true when the officer checks their phone often.  The officer should stand erect with his hands folded waist length in what we refer to as the interview position.  This position shows neutrality and readiness.

A person cannot stand like a statue, though, so when you move, the movements should be smooth and fluid, showing that you are in control and have confidence.  Power and faith tend to foster cooperation.

Communicating using body language and words complement each other.  When you talk to a person, you should lean toward the person but not too far, as you don’t want to violate that person’s personal space. 

AVOID PHYSICAL CONTACT It is natural for some people to reach out and touch people, and touching implies a familiarity between two people. A security officer should avoid gratuitous touching. The only time a security professional might consider touching a person is when they have no other choice and have to restrain that person.

CONCLUSION - Using appropriate body language is an essential tool for a security guard.  A security guard will perform their job much better when he uses proper body language

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