The Unsung Heroes; Appreciating the Role of Private Security in Our Daily Lives.

By Ekaale Ekuam 

September 14, 2024

Every day, whether heading to work or visiting a public or private facility, the first person you often come into contact with is a private security guard. These individuals are stationed at the entrance of buildings, businesses, and homes, and though they may go unnoticed, their role is far more significant than many realize. The guards, beyond the mere scanning, detecting, and ensuring the safety of everyone under their jurisdiction, do tasks that usually go beyond the call of duty be it in dealing with customer service issues, giving directions, or sometimes even outshining the very employees within the organization that they serve.

What makes private security guards display such exemplary attitude and commitment, often better than the staff of the organization itself? The answer is actually rooted in the very basic concept of outsourcing. This is what improves with the outsourcing of a task,  the service. In the case of private security guards, this is manifested by a higher degree of courtesy, efficiency, and diligence. These guards know well the importance of their work within the ecosystem of any business or residential space. Not just gatekeepers, They are, in fact, part of the organization, knowing the people, processes, culture, and routines to which they are deployed much more than we realize. They interact with employees and visitors day in, day out, seeing the very behaviors and needs of all these people, therefore becoming keen observers who know more than meets the eye.

In general terms, the private security sector is a great component at the global level that complements public security. Governments cannot manage the entire security environment by themselves, and private security companies have emerged to step in. Private security services are critical in, for instance, dealing with dangerous environments or providing protection to individuals. For example, the role that private security has increasingly found itself in has grown greatly in Kenya. These guards provide a cushion of security to businesses, homes, and institutions. Because, one can only imagine, without them the pressure on government security agencies would be overwhelming, considering the demand for safety in a world that is increasingly becoming very precarious.

But what sets private security guards apart is their attitude. This is often marked by their professionalism, courtesy, and willingness to assist in whatever capacity they can such as answering customer inquiries or managing crowds of people. This should beg the obvious question, Why are these guards at least as good at these jobs, and usually much much better? Well, one might relate that to the inherent lack of outsourcing in their work. There's a clear contract and set expectations for performance when an activity is outsourced. These security guards receive intensive training in private firms to ensure that they are able to meet the expected standard set by the clients, which will encourage them to go beyond normal service delivery.

Additionally, on many an occasion, private security guards are working at a level of awareness far removed from most within the organization. Operating at the very front lines, they not only observe but also see through the functioning, people, and systems of the organization. They interact with everyone from the top officials to the ordinary visitor, which renders them a channel to vital information regarding the organization's internal structure. They can also suggest security solutions or advice that may be very instrumental in enhancing individual and organizational safety. This information comes in handy, especially in the current period when security threats have escalated to be the order of the day.

All the same, as much as they add this much value, private security guards are, in most cases, seen as of no value. People tend to take them for granted, while they work very hard to make sure that the spaces we are in stay safe and functional. In guarding, their job is not only at the entrance but also inside the building in order to give a sense of security to people at work, at home, or in public places. It is time that all of us come to appreciate this critical service which is bestowed upon us by these providers of security.

Private security guards are a key part of the governance structure and managing security across most nations in the world. Their presence allows the public agencies in charge of security to focus on larger issues as they are sure that everyday security issues of people and properties are taken care of. For instance, in countries like South Africa, India, and even Kenya, private security firms are employed to guard everything from shopping malls to residential complexes. Such guards are usually first respondents in all emergencies and move swiftly in calming a dangerous situation or offering information on how to leave a building or any other place to be safe.

On an individual level, the security guard at your gate is not just a watchman; he is your first line of defense and a critical part of your personal security. Many guards can advise you very helpfully, telling you how to protect your property in the best way whether it is advising on better locks or advice about new kinds of surveillance. Their interaction with such security issues daily gives them experience that should not be underestimated.

In a word, private security guards hold an indispensable role in our society. They are often much more professional, polite, and rigorous in the execution of their duties compared to other people within the organizations they secure. They keep us safe, ensure the order is adhered to, and ensure the places we occupy are protected. We have finally remembered our heroes: those who provide safety to us in two different worlds, comfortable and hostile ones. Public and private security, therefore, work hand in hand for the betterment of the safety of society, and without private security, all our daily lives would be so much more vulnerable.

The Author,

Is a Freelance Writer Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management Consultant.