Security Guard Interview Questions & Answers


Security guards patrol and protect property against theft, vandalism, terrorism, and illegal activity. Security guards must remain alert, looking out for anything unusual. In an emergency, they are required to call for assistance from police, fire, or ambulance services.

Whether you're a job seeker preparing to be interviewed for the role of Security Guard or an employer preparing to interview candidates for Security Guard position, these Security Guard interview questions will help you prepare yourself for the job interview session.

Security Guard Interview Questions

Below are a list of some skill-based Security Guard interview questions.

  1. Can you provide an overview of your background and experience in security, including any industries or organizations you've worked for?
  2. What motivated you to pursue a career as a Security Guard, and how have you developed your skills and knowledge in this field?
  3. Describe your familiarity with security protocols and procedures, such as access control, surveillance, and emergency response. How have you applied these procedures in your previous roles?
  4. How do you handle security incidents or breaches, such as unauthorized access or suspicious activities, to ensure the safety and security of the premises?
  5. Security Guards often serve as the first point of contact with visitors and employees. How do you approach greeting and interacting with individuals entering the facility while maintaining security measures?
  6. Explain your understanding of emergency response planning and your role in implementing emergency procedures, such as evacuations or lockdowns.
  7. Can you discuss your experience with access control systems and your ability to enforce access policies to prevent unauthorized entry?
  8. How do you stay updated on the latest security threats and trends to ensure that your security measures remain effective and current?
  9. Security Guards may be responsible for patrolling and monitoring facilities. Describe your approach to conducting security rounds and reporting any irregularities or security risks.
  10. How do you respond to alarm notifications or alerts, including your steps in assessing the situation and taking appropriate actions?
  11. Describe your ability to communicate effectively with law enforcement, emergency services, and other security personnel during security incidents or emergencies.
  12. In a security role, you may encounter situations where individuals become confrontational or uncooperative. How do you handle such situations while maintaining professionalism and de-escalating tensions?
  13. Explain your familiarity with security reporting and documentation. How do you maintain accurate records of security incidents, activities, and visitor logs?
  14. Security Guards often assist with the implementation of security policies and procedures. Can you provide examples of your experience in promoting security awareness and compliance among employees and visitors?
  15. How do you maintain a vigilant and alert posture during your shifts to deter potential security threats and ensure a safe environment for all?
  16. Imagine you are patrolling the premises of a corporate office building during the night shift, and you notice a group of individuals attempting to gain unauthorized access through a back entrance. How would you handle this situation to ensure the security of the building and its occupants?
  17. You are monitoring security cameras at a shopping mall, and you observe a person acting suspiciously in a store, potentially shoplifting. How would you respond to this situation, ensuring the security of the store while respecting the individual's rights?
  18. During a large outdoor event, you receive a report of a lost child. How would you assist in locating the child and reuniting them with their parents while maintaining overall event security?
  19. While patrolling a parking lot, you come across a situation where two individuals are involved in a heated verbal dispute that could escalate into physical violence. How would you intervene to defuse the situation and maintain a safe environment?
  20. You are responsible for conducting routine inspections of vehicles entering a secure facility. During one inspection, you discover a suspicious package in the trunk of a vehicle. How would you handle this discovery, ensuring the safety of the facility and all personnel?

Security Guard Interview Questions and Answers

Every interview is different and the questions may vary. However, there are lots of general questions that get asked at every interview.

Below are some common questions you'd expect during Security Guard interviews. Click on each question to see how to answer them.

  1. Why Do You Want To Leave Your Current Job?
  2. What is Your Greatest Strength?
  3. Tell Me About Yourself
  4. Why Do You Want This Job?
  5. Are You a Leader or a Follower?
  6. What Is Your Greatest Accomplishment?
  7. What is Your Salary Expectation?
  8. Do You Have Any Questions for Us?
  9. Why Should We Hire You?
  10. What is Your Greatest Weakness?