It is vital to prepare for a retail security guard interview so that you can effectively ace the process.
During the process, you will be asked questions to determine what your skills are, particularly in ensuring the security of the retail facility that you will represent.
One of the main things that you will be asked is if you are experienced in providing security to a retail facility.
Questions regarding your knowledge of checking bags, and quickly responding to incidents in an immediate fashion.
Moreover, you will be judged on your ability to act as a visual deterrent, so that you can effectively deflect anti-social behavior.
Related: Retail Security Guard Resume Sample
Take a look at the following interview questions and answers for a retail security guard position:
Retail Security Guard Interview Questions and Answers
1. Tell me a little bit about yourself.
I have worked as a retail security guard for 5 years. I have special training in combat and deterrence and have effectively implemented my skills in a wide variety of adverse situations. Presently, I am seeking a position that gives me a chance to prove my skills in a retail environment.
2. How did you find out about this opening?
I was skimming through the classifieds in the newspaper when I came across this opportunity. Upon aligning my skills and experience with your requirements, I realized that the match was perfect. So, I decided to apply for this position.
3. What duties have you performed in the role of a retail security guard?
As a retail security guard, I have performed many duties, including bag checking, and incident response. In addition, I have been carrying out internal and external patrols and deterring crime and theft. Also, my work includes monitoring CCTV cameras and controlling entry to premises. Apprehending criminals and taking accurate notes of unusual occurrences are also part of my work.
4. How do you handle adversity at the workplace?
Adversity is something quite normal when you are working as a retail security guard. Coming across thefts and vandalism is all in a day’s work. When such a thing happens, I keep my cool and follow protocol to take action, such as apprehending violators or controlling their actions.
5. Do you feel that you are cut out for this kind of work?
Absolutely. I feel that I am the best person to work in this position because I am highly insightful. I can easily perform the work duties associated with retail security and have a solid background in this work.
6. What do you like about this work?
I love my work. There is not a single aspect of this work that I do not like. I feel a sense of belonging in this role.
7. What skills do you possess which make you an excellent individual to hire as a retail security guard?
I have a great eye for detail, which makes it easy for me to locate potential trouble. Also, I possess excellent surveillance skills, and can effectively follow complex instructions to get things done. Moreover, I am well-versed in apprehending criminals and evicting violators.
8. What is your biggest strength?
I feel that my biggest strength is my ability to handle adverse situations with great ease. I am in a constant state of self-training, which is another strength that I possess.
9. What is your greatest weakness?
I feel that I am too thorough at times. For instance, if I see a potentially adverse situation happening, I jump in immediately, even when nothing has happened just yet.
10. Do you have anger management issues?
Not at all. I am the calmest person you will meet in your life. Even during crisis situations, I make sure that I never lose my temper. I feel that if one has anger management issues, one cannot work well as a retail security guard.
11. How do you spend downtime on the job?
As I mentioned earlier, I love my work, which is why I spend my downtime thinking about new security strategies. It may seem like work, but in actuality, it is my downtime.
12. How comfortable are you with technology?
I am well-versed in operating and maintaining CCTV cameras, and alarms. I am also exceptionally knowledgeable about using technology to monitor and control access at building entrances and vehicle gates.
13. Why are you leaving your present job?
I am focusing on self-development, which is why I want to expand my career. I feel that working for your organization will provide me with a solid opportunity to do that, as opposed to working at my current workplace.
14. How do you stay motivated during slow hours?
I take slow hours in stride, and they never demotivate me. All I have to do is think of the potential excitement of this work, and I am good!
15. What have you learned from past mistakes?
Perhaps the reason that I am so vigilant is that a past mistake ended up in me losing a violator to a crowd of shoppers. I have learned that one needs to be in a constant state of vigilance when working as a retail security guard.
16. Do you feel that working as a retail security guard has high saturation?
Not at all. In fact, every day is a new opportunity to learn more. Saturation is hardly an issue when one is working as a retail security guard.
17. What do you do to handle stress?
Stress is a given when one is working as a security guard in a retail capacity. I take things, one at a time, which is why handling stress is not an issue for me.
18. When can you join us if we decide to hire you?
I have to provide a 60-day notice to my current employer. Since they have to do a background check during the time that the employee is leaving, this much time is necessary. I can join straight after the notice period ends.
19. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I intend to be working as a head of security within the next 5 years.
20. Do you have any questions for me?
I would love to know if you have any induction and development programs for retail security guards at your organization.