Managing security guards can be quite a challenge. Fairly or unfairly, they are sometimes underpaid or not properly respected and this can create conflict and resentment. Nobody likes to be disciplined and security officers are no exception. It is always good to follow the following suggestions when one is forced to discipline guards for misbehavior or misconduct:

1) Get your side of the story first. It is quite possible that there is an error in the facts. Before taking any type of disciplinary action, you must get the facts straight. It is possible, in other words, that when the officer shares your view of what happened, you may change your mind about his misconduct.

2) Always have a witness. This is very important, especially if the guard’s misconduct or action is serious. First of all, you have no idea how the officer might react. It’s good to have a backup person who can relate what happened in case things get out of hand. Also, if the officer denies that the conversation took place or tells that it happened in another way, you have a verifiable witness who can vouch for your side in terms of how the conversation happened.

3) Always write down what happened. Count events or ‘misconduct’ as accurately as possible. Have the officer sign any type of disciplinary action he may take. If the officer refuses to sign, include it in his notes or, if he wishes, even on the form that the guards will sign. These forms vary in style and content. The form itself must say the word “warning” somewhere.

4) Make sure that the action you take against the officer is fair and not excessive. There is an article written called Security Los Angeles that can be found online and it details the correct punishment, so to speak, for common crimes.

5) Make sure there are postal orders. For those who don’t know what Postal Orders are, they are rules and regulations that exist on any account for officers to follow. They are relevant so that the guards know what is expected of them. Each rule or regulation must be signed by each officer on the account.

The above is simply a short list of how to discipline officers. Always keep in mind that your job is not easy. Try to be compassionate and remember to listen to their side of the story first. The officer may end up simply admitting the wrongdoing and being almost more willing to accept criticism.