What is one key characteristic of a good security guard?

Strong observational skills are crucial for a good security guard as they enable the guard to notice unusual behaviors, identify potential threats, and respond effectively to various situations. Observational skills help guards remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings, which is essential for ensuring safety and preventing incidents. This ability allows them to assess environments quickly and accurately, making informed decisions based on what they see.

While knowledge of legal clauses, a degree in criminal justice, and negotiation skills are beneficial traits, they do not match the immediate necessity of observing and reacting to security threats on a day-to-day basis. Effective observation forms the foundation of effective security work, as it precedes and supports the application of other skills such as negotiation or legal knowledge in real-life scenarios.