The world of security can be tough, and getting certified can be even tougher. But is it worth it? Well, according to some Redditors, the answer is a resounding “meh”. One person said that Buff is legit but that it took a long time to earn just a small reward. Another Redditor says that Buff is legit but not worth it. This person kept finding that the rewards they wanted were out of stock.
But let’s not be too hasty. There are some perks to getting certified. For one, it can be a great way to show off your skills and knowledge. Plus, it can help you stand out from the crowd when you’re looking for a job. And who doesn’t love a little extra cash? Buff offers rewards for completing challenges, and while they may not be life-changing, they can certainly help you out in a pinch.
Flexing Your Knowledge Muscles
So what exactly will you learn by getting certified? Well, the answer is…it depends. Different certifications cover different topics, so it’s important to do your research and find one that suits your needs. For example, CompTIA Security+ covers topics like network security, cryptography, and identity management. On the other hand, the Certified Protection Professional (CPP) certification covers topics like physical security, investigations, and emergency management.
But no matter which certification you choose, you’re sure to learn something new. And who knows? You might even find that you enjoy the process of learning and want to continue your education in the field of security.
Costs vs. Gains of Certification
Getting certified as a security guard can be a great investment in your career, but it does come with some upfront costs. The cost of a security guard training program can range from $100 to $1,000 or more. The longer the program, the more extensive the curriculum and training will be, but also the higher the cost.
But fear not intrepid security guard hopefuls! Think of it this way: you’re not just paying for a piece of paper that says you’re certified. You’re investing in your security biceps! You’re building up your strength and knowledge so you can be a more effective security guard. And who doesn’t want to be able to flex their security muscles?
Potential Salary Bumps
Now, let’s talk about the potential financial gains of getting certified. On average, security guards make around $33,000 a year. However, those with more experience, and certifications, and who provide private security can make more than $50,000 a year.
So, if you’re willing to put in the work and invest in your security biceps, you could potentially see a significant salary bump. That’s like lifting a financial barbell! Plus, having a certification can expand your career options and make you a more desirable candidate for employers.
Job Market Outlook
As the world becomes more uncertain, the demand for security guards is on the rise. The employment of security guards is projected to grow 3 percent from 2018 to 2028, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to about 38,000 new jobs for security guards over the next decade.
But why the increase in demand for security gladiators? Well, it could be due to the rise in crime rates, the need to protect property and people, or the fact that security guards are just cool. Whatever the reason, the job market for security guards is looking pretty good.
Climbing the Career Ladder
So, you’ve decided to become a security guard. But what’s next? How do you advance in your career? The good news is that there are plenty of opportunities for advancement in the security industry.
For starters, security guards can move up to become security supervisors or managers. They can also specialize in areas such as cybersecurity, executive protection, or event security. And if they’re ambitious, they can even become private investigators or law enforcement officers.
But before you can climb the career ladder, you need to start at the bottom. And that means getting certified as a security guard. So, is a security guard certification worth it? The answer is a resounding yes. Not only does it increase your chances of getting hired, but it also provides you with the knowledge and skills you need to excel in your job.
The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
Getting certified as a security guard can be a rewarding experience. It can open up new job opportunities, increase earning potential, and provide a sense of accomplishment. Some security guards even go on to become supervisors, managers, or even start their own security companies.
One success story is that of John, who got certified as a security guard and landed a job at a prestigious hotel. His certification gave him the knowledge and skills to handle different situations, including dealing with unruly guests and preventing theft. He quickly became a trusted member of the hotel staff and was promoted to head of security within a year.
Another success story is that of Mary, who got certified as a security guard and started her own security company. She used her certification to train her employees and ensure they provided high-quality security services to their clients. Her company grew quickly and she now has contracts with several large corporations.
Challenges and Considerations
While getting certified as a security guard can have its benefits, there are also some challenges to consider. The certification process can be time-consuming and expensive, and not all employers require or value it. Additionally, some states have different certification requirements, which can make it difficult to work across state lines.
Another consideration is that getting certified does not guarantee success. Some certified security guards may struggle to find employment or may not perform well on the job. It’s important to have realistic expectations and to continue learning and improving even after getting certified.
In conclusion, getting certified as a security guard can be a good way to improve job prospects and increase earning potential. However, it’s important to weigh the costs and benefits and to have realistic expectations. With hard work and dedication, a certified security guard can become a hero in their own right.