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Security guard cover letter example
Related cover letter examples
Cover letter template for a security guard
Format your security guard cover letter
How to write a security officer cover letter
Add a matching resume
Key takeaways
Resources to help prepare for your interview

You’ve got a passion for safety and a strong work ethic, but how do you make sure you have the opportunity to apply these talents to an exciting role as a security guard? The answer is a convincing job application that presents your skills and dedication in a neat professional style. To do this, you need a great resume and a standout cover letter that describes why you’re the best candidate for the specific position you’re pursuing.

Building an effective security guard cover letter goes beyond writing a list of your best traits. Your cover letter should tell your career story and provide insight into who you are as a professional. This might seem like a daunting task, but don’t worry. Our comprehensive guide is designed to assist you in creating an impactful security guard cover letter that puts your best foot forward.

We’ll provide you with:

Security guard cover letter examples to inspire your creativity.
A customizable cover letter template tailored specifically to security roles.
Step-by-step guidance on constructing each segment of your cover letter.
Insights to ensure your security guard cover letter stands out.

Need a professionally crafted cover letter pronto? Explore our Cover Letter Generator, a user-friendly tool that simplifies the writing process by offering ready-to-use phrases specifically tailored for security guard applications, plus professional formatting and templates for any device.

Security guard cover letter example

Sample security guard cover letter

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What makes this a great cover letter for a security guard?

It’s colorful
This cover letter has a pop of color in the heading that grabs the reader’s eye, but the rest of the document is basic and professional, keeping the focus on the content.
Calls to action
This letter concludes with a call to action suggesting a further discussion with the hiring manager. A polite and respectful call to action opens the door to an interview invite.
Appropriate signoff
Every letter ends with a signature. This candidate signs off with “Sincerely.” This is an appropriate ending that leaves behind a polished impression.

Cover letter template for a security guard

Myles Tanner
Irvine, CA 92602
555-555-5555
example@example.com

Jan. 04, 2024

Jonathan Powell,
Strategic Security Group
Irvine, CA 92602
Phone: 555-555-5555
E-Mail: example@example.com

Dear Mr. Powell,

I am writing to express my sincere interest in the security guard opportunity at Strategic Security Corp. This role perfectly aligns with my passion for ensuring the safety and well-being of people and property. With a solid background in security operations, a commitment to providing a safe environment and a proven track record of implementing effective security measures, I am confident in my ability to contribute positively to your team.

In my previous role as a security guard, I successfully maintained a secure environment by conducting thorough patrols and monitoring surveillance systems. During my tenure, I implemented a proactive approach to prevent incidents, resulting in a 30% decrease in unauthorized access and a 20% reduction in security breaches. My ability to remain calm under pressure and swiftly respond to incidents led to a 15% improvement in emergency response times.

Also, I am particularly proud of my initiative to develop comprehensive security assessments to identify vulnerabilities in existing security systems. I contributed to a 25% decrease in security incidents within the first six months by implementing strategic changes, such as optimizing access control systems and updating security protocols.

Furthermore, my commitment to ongoing professional development is evident in my completion of advanced training courses in conflict resolution and emergency response. These certifications not only sharpened my skills but also contributed to a 10% increase in the overall efficiency of the security team.

I am impressed by Strategic Security Corp’s reputation for prioritizing safety and security, and I am eager to bring my expertise to your esteemed organization. My dedication to excellence and a results-driven approach make me an asset to your security team.

Thank you for considering my application. I am looking forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and achievements align with the needs of Strategic Security Corp. Please find my resume attached for your reference.

Sincerely,

Myles Tanner

Format your security guard cover letter

Your security guard cover letter should highlight the crucial skills necessary for success in a security guard role, including attributes such as vigilance, adaptability and proficiency in ensuring the safety of the assigned premises.

To effectively convey your ability to maintain a secure environment and uphold professional standards, your cover letter should be clear and polished. The security industry demands precision, and your cover letter format should align with the attention to detail expected of a security guard role.

Consider the following formatting guidelines to ensure your security guard cover letter reflects your professionalism:

Font style and sizing
Choose established and easily readable fonts like Arial or Times New Roman to maintain a professional appearance suitable for the security sector. Opt for an 11- or 12-point font size, as these are standard sizes for business documents.
Spacing
Maintain effective line spacing for readability. Utilize 1.15 to 1.5 spacing for your text to facilitate easy absorption of your security qualifications. Consistent spacing between paragraphs also ensures that the reader can effortlessly understand your letter without distractions from irregular gaps or crowded text.
Margins
Keep it straightforward with 1-inch margins and left-aligned text. Maintaining basic and standard formatting reduces the likelihood of unprofessional mistakes, contributing to a polished presentation of your security guard qualifications.

Cover letter templates for security guards

Create your cover letter

Just as your formatting should meet professional standards, your security guard cover letter should be styled appropriately to emphasize your accomplishments. Customize your cover letter template to align with the expectations of the security role and your personal style.

For example, a security guard applying to a high-tech facility might opt for a modern and streamlined template. On the other hand, a cover letter for a residential security position may benefit from a classic and traditional format.

Explore our collection of security guard cover letter templates to ensure your application presents your security journey in the best possible light. Also, matching your cover letter template with your resume template creates a unified and professional application, showcasing your commitment to excellence.

How to write a security officer cover letter

You might not find joy in the task of composing a cover letter — a feeling shared by many — but its importance in the hiring process cannot be overstated. Research reveals that 83% of hiring managers consider cover letters crucial, emphasizing the need to master this skill to optimize your career prospects.

Creating an outstanding cover letter doesn’t have to be difficult. The process can be streamlined by following a few simple steps. The ultimate goal is to create a cover letter that complements your resume for a job application that feels complete and well-rounded and demonstrates why you’re the best choice for the particular role. To do this, follow these steps!

Step 1

Study the security guard job description

An exceptional security guard cover letter should never reuse a generic template for each job application. Tailoring your cover letter to each specific role is essential. Your letter should describe why you’re an ideal fit for the specific position. A generic, copy-and-paste cover letter isn’t specific enough to do this.

Additionally, applicant tracking systems (ATS) play a significant role in the candidate screening process for many roles. These systems scan for keywords aligned with the qualifications outlined in the job description. Make your cover letter ATS-friendly by incorporating terms used in the security guard job description.

Customizing each cover letter to align with the unique requirements of each role not only enhances the quality of your application but also positions you favorably for ATS scrutiny.

Step 2

Include your contact information in the header

While seemingly routine, providing your contact information requires attention to detail. Your cover letter aims to prompt potential employers to reach out to you. Ensure your contact details are easily accessible and accurate by placing them in the header and confirming they match the information on your resume. Include:

Your name
City and state
Phone number
Email address
Relevant links to your professional portfolio or LinkedIn, if applicable

Pro tip

Uphold a professional image by avoiding inappropriate email addresses. If necessary, create a new address that conveys a professional impression, such as YourName@email.com. The header forms your first impression, so safeguard it by double-checking for errors and typos.

Step 3

Address the hiring manager by name

Personalize the salutation of your security guard cover letter by directly addressing the hiring manager. If you look into the role and the security team, you can likely identify the hiring manager. Addressing your letter to the specific individual who will read it demonstrates your commitment to the application process.

If you cannot find the hiring manager’s name or details, addressing the letter to the team you’re joining is an appropriate substitute.

Pro tip

Job listings often provide contact information for a hiring manager. If not, invest time in researching the organizational structure to identify the person responsible for hiring. Adding a personal touch by addressing the recipient by name shows thoughtfulness in your application.

Step 4

Introduce yourself in the first paragraph

The opening paragraph of your security guard cover letter plays a pivotal role in introducing yourself and emphasizing your qualifications. It’s an opportunity to concisely outline key aspects of your career in security.

Entry-level security guard cover letter opening paragraph:

I am writing to express my genuine interest in the security guard position at [Security Firm Name], as advertised. Since completing my training in security protocols, I have developed a profound understanding of vigilance, adaptability and ensuring the safety of assigned premises. I am enthusiastic about the prospect of applying my security expertise to contribute to the security measures at your esteemed organization.

Experienced security guard cover letter opening paragraph:

I am writing to express my sincere interest in the security guard position at [Security Firm Name], as advertised. With a proven track record in security leadership, a deep commitment to ensuring optimal safety and a dedication to maintaining the highest standards of ethical security practices, I am confident in my ability to enhance the security services at your esteemed organization. Having successfully managed diverse responsibilities, including surveillance, risk assessment and adherence to security protocols, I am eager to bring my expertise to your security team, contributing to the maintenance of exceptional security measures.

Pro tip

Keep your introduction paragraph short and sweet, aiming for three sentences or less.

Step 5

Explain why you’re the best candidate for the job:

The body paragraphs of your security guard cover letter provide an opportunity to create a deeper narrative of your security career. Emphasize elements of your experience that showcase your dedication to maintaining a secure environment and illustrate why you’re the most qualified candidate for the security guard position. Focus on the following key points:

Specify relevant security experience
While your resume offers an overview of your career, the cover letter allows you to provide specific details. Share noteworthy accomplishments tied to surveillance, risk assessment and adherence to security protocols. Describe your passion for ensuring the safety of the premises and your commitment to upholding the highest standards of security. By emphasizing your security journey and aligning it with the needs of the security firm or position, you can demonstrate why you are the ideal candidate for the security guard role.
Showcase transferable skills
A comprehensive cover letter for a security guard should highlight both hard and soft skills. Showcase your security abilities alongside personal traits such as vigilance, effective communication and adaptability. Aim for a balanced presentation to paint a complete picture of your professional skills. Ensure that the skills you emphasize align with the priorities outlined in the job posting to resonate with the security team.
Address any unique circumstances
Treat your security guard cover letter as an opportunity to provide context for any unique aspects of your security journey. If you took time off for professional development, switched career paths or undertook additional certifications, explain the situation briefly. Discuss how your journey, with its diverse experiences, has enhanced your skills and positioned you as a well-rounded candidate for the security guard position.

Example body paragraphs for a security guard cover letter:

In my role as a security guard, I have consistently demonstrated a passion for maintaining a secure environment and contributing to the safety of the premises under my watch. During my tenure at Vigilant Security Services, I received commendation for implementing effective surveillance measures and ensuring swift response to security incidents.

During a brief hiatus for professional development, I dedicated time to staying updated on the latest security methodologies, acquiring additional certifications and enhancing my skills in risk assessment. During this period of growth, I reinforced my commitment to maintaining optimal security standards, ensuring that I bring technical proficiency and a fresh perspective to the security guard position.

Step 6

Write your cover letter closing

Your cover letter closing should reinforce your enthusiasm for the security guard position and restate why you are well-suited for the role. Avoid duplicating information from the body of your cover letter, and instead, conclude with a statement that underscores your value and add an open-ended call to action expressing your eagerness for an interview or suggesting further discussion.

Example closing paragraph for a security guard cover letter:

I am genuinely thrilled about the prospect of contributing my vigilant oversight and unwavering dedication to security at [Security Firm Name]. Your firm’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety aligns seamlessly with my values as a security professional. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience.

Pro tip

Maintain a professional and assertive tone in your call to action, striking a balance between warmth and formality. Avoid wording that sounds demanding, overly cocky or pushy. Be assertive, yet polite.

Step 7

Sign off

Every letter concludes with a signature, and your cover letter is no exception. Ensure your cover letter concludes with a professional signoff appropriate for a formal letter. “Sincerely” and “Best regards” are always safe choices. Avoid unprofessional signoffs like “Love” or “Cheers,” as these choices read as informal at best and rude at worst.

Add a matching resume

Create your resume

A cover letter is just one component of your application. Without a strong resume, your cover letter won’t earn you the attention of hiring departments. Learn to make a resume that showcases your experience in the security industry and your commitment to maintaining a secure environment. For help getting started, explore some resume examples.

For a professionally formatted security guard resume completed in just a few minutes, consider our AI Resume Builder. This tool provides ready-to-use skills and phrases along with expert formatting to help you construct an effective resume that complements your cover letter seamlessly.

Key takeaways

Explore security guard cover letter examples

To refine your cover letter writing process, our carefully curated collection of security guard cover letter examples offers valuable insights and visual references to assist you in crafting a compelling letter that distinguishes you from other applicants.
Highlight security skills and premises-focused qualities

Create an application that positions you as an experienced security professional with a comprehensive skill set. Emphasize your proficiency in surveillance, risk assessment and adherence to security protocols. Showcase interpersonal traits such as vigilance, effective communication, attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining a secure environment.
Select an appropriate security guard cover letter template

Survey a range of cover letter styles, from classic to contemporary, to find a template that aligns with the professional and security-focused nature of the position. Choosing a template that reflects the disciplined and vigilant aspects of security guard roles enhances the visual appeal and professionalism of your cover letter.
Keep your introductory paragraph concise

Capture the employer’s attention with a brief opening paragraph that provides a snapshot of your qualifications as a security guard. Avoid overwhelming the reader with excessive details and focus on introducing yourself as a candidate with enthusiasm and relevant security qualifications for the position.
Write detailed body paragraphs

The body paragraphs serve as the substance of your cover letter, offering an opportunity to dig into specific security qualifications that showcase your excellence as a security guard. Provide detailed examples of your experience, emphasizing how your skills align with the responsibilities of the role. This is also the ideal space to highlight any specialized security practices or areas in which you excel.
Ensure proper formatting

Pay attention to the formatting of your cover letter to convey professionalism. Choose an appropriate font style and size, and maintain 1-inch margins throughout the document. Double-check line spacing to ensure a polished presentation that complements the substance of your cover letter.

Resources to help prepare for your interview

Last Updated: January 17, 2025

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Hailey Brophy is an experienced writer with a diverse career in digital publication. She is passionate about using her unique skills and experiences to help job seekers find the information that they need to succeed.