5 preventable mistakes even top physical security teams make

Date: May-12-2025

Author: Kim Brown

Mistakes present opportunities for learning and growth. We all make them, and most can be forgiven, but that’s not always the case when you work in the security industry.

Security companies and staff are tasked with protecting people and property, and a mistake could lead to a dangerous outcome.

In order to minimize mistakes from happening, security leaders are encouraged to stay current with new threats and solutions, establish processes that can be executed and measured, and most importantly, communicate with their teams.

    

Table of contents

    

Mistake 1 – Siloing information

Sometimes, when a guard ends their shift, events that occurred during their watch are not passed on to the next guard. Perhaps it’s because the issue was resolved, or proper documentation was not created.

Either way, siloing information puts the entire team at a disadvantage because they end up being less prepared to handle a similar or recurring security issue.  

This problem boils down to a lack of clear communication. When people work in high-pressure environments, lack of information can lead to critical errors, delayed responses, or operational breakdowns.

Conversely, when they have information about security incidents, who was involved, and how the issue was resolved, they can better prepare to respond proactively if a similar issue arises.

    

The solution

  • Use security logs that can easily be passed on when shift changes occur
  • Patrol Points has standardized digital security logs that are user-friendly and reliable. Logs are available to staff as soon as they begin their shifts
  • Schedule regular meetings with the entire team to discuss best practices when trying to resolve or defuse common security problems. Invite questions and discussions

    

Mistake 2 – Failing to update solutions and processes

Security experts understand how threats can change and evolve over time. Malicious actors try new tactics to get what they want, and leaders must keep up in order to stay ahead of them.

AI and cybersecurity, for example, are impacting all areas of security, even physical security. As IoT devices proliferate, the risk of cyberattacks causing physical damage to businesses or residential communities is growing.

Does this mean they should purchase every new tool and tech device available to them? Absolutely not. Security tools need to serve a purpose, and they should lighten workloads for security staff. Too many programs and tools will only complicate things and overburden staff who are already stretched thin.     

Conversely, teams cannot use the same strategies and expect to defend against new or evolved threats. Security strategies must be reviewed and revised often.   

    

The solution

  • Before investing in sophisticated security tools, leaders must be able to identify relevant risks and threats, and determine what techniques are effective in stopping them
  • New or updated security measures should complement existing processes. Overly complicated solutions will inevitably create more problems and reduce success rates
  • Take feedback from staff to find out what’s working and what needs improving
  • Leaders must be prepared to assess new strategies or technologies and make changes as needed. Just because something worked for one client doesn’t automatically mean it will work for another  

    

Mistake 3 – Failing to provide your team with continuing education

Security is a team effort, and even the best leaders will struggle to succeed if their staff members are unprepared to address threats. Without updated skills in risk assessment, surveillance, and crisis response, security professionals will have a hard time navigating new challenges.

Many security guards feel unprepared to deal with violent people or intense situations, but adequate training can give them the tools and confidence they need.

    

The solution

  • Schedule regular drills to simulate real-world scenarios
  • Budget money for specialized training programs in cybersecurity, conflict resolution, and threat detection. You can mention to clients that your team is qualified to take on more advanced security problems
  • If possible, create cross-training opportunities between different security functions to enhance skillsets

    

Mistake 4 – Collecting data without using it

Proper data tracking and analysis are critical to the success of any security team. At its core, data tells a story about what has happened, what is likely to happen, and what to do next.  

Prioritizing data can help a company prove its value and improve the effectiveness of its processes and services.

However, some companies focus too much on collecting data and not enough on using the data to make changes or improvements.

This typically happens because there is confusion about what to track, or what the number means, or the current data collection method is too intense and challenging. By the time they’ve documented everything, leadership doesn’t have the time or resources to think about outcomes (which is also hard work).

    

The solution

  • Use software that compiles and organizes team data
  • Hire a data analyst who can either create a user-friendly process for making sense of data, or analyze the data and make recommendations for the company

    

Mistake 5 – Offering little or no gratitude to your team

This is probably one of the most common mistakes leaders make, but it is also the easiest to resolve. Security professionals work long hours, must be prepared to enter into stressful or potentially dangerous situations, and don’t generally earn high wages.

If leadership does not make the team members feel valued, low morale, burnout, and disengagement creep in fast. Studies have revealed that work environment and pay rate significantly impact employee turnover within private security businesses. While fair pay is also important, it doesn’t cost anything to recognize someone’s achievements or contributions.

High employee turnover can have a big impact on your organization’s bottom line, though. It’s estimated that losing an employee can cost a company as much as double the employee’s salary! Plus, more work and pressure are placed on existing staff, which can lead to burnout and more resignations.  

    

The solution

  • Establish a culture of appreciation by recognizing strong and impactful performances
  • Provide career growth opportunities through ongoing training and mentorship so staff don’t feel like they are “stuck” in their jobs
  • Ask for anonymous feedback. This gives security officers a way to feel heard, and they are more likely to be honest if they can submit suggestions or bring up problems anonymously

    

Conclusion  

Strong leadership, continuing education, and proper recognition can help security companies avoid common mistakes that slow productivity and success. Security teams must work together to achieve goals. The more knowledgeable and confident your team is, the more likely you are to keep clients safe and happy.