When applying for a job in the private security industry, you will have considerable competition. These days, most employers who aren't seeking potential employees through word of mouth will invite job-seekers to submit an application online. When applying for a job online, and they ask for a cover letter, separate yourself from the masses by finding the specific person in charge of hiring for the position at the company you are applying to. It is much more personal to receive an application with the employer's name on it as opposed to opening a cover letter with "to whom it may concern."

If you cannot find the name of the person in charge of hiring:

 If the information you need is not available online, find the company's phone number, and call them. Be polite, yet brief. State your name, and that you are calling about the position you saw that is available online, and that you would like to know whom to address your application to. Make sure you have the correct spelling of the person's name, and thank whoever helped you for their time. This may also help your cause because the employer may remember that you took the time to research the company. Initiative is always a strong indicator of a motivated employee, and will always make for a more attractive candidate.

Tailor your Resume:

While most employers in the security field generally want someone with similar qualifications such as guard cards, security certifications, and weapons training, a "one size fits all" approach to resume writing is not going to make you stand out from the crowd. Be sure to take the time you need to research the company, so you can find out what exactly they are looking for. When you have the information you need, tailor your resume to show your skills and qualifications specifically match what they are seeking. A lot of employers screen resumes for keywords, so be sure to match up your relevant experience with what it is the company is looking for. Editing is a painstaking process, but it will pay off when you get the job.

 The phone call:

When you get a phone call from a potential employer, be professional and courteous. You should not feel nervous because, after all, they wouldn't call you if they didn't feel you were qualified enough to get your foot in the door. Make sure you have the correct information when they schedule you for an interview.

 The interview:

Make sure you wear a suit, or if you do not have that, a dress shirt with a dark tie, dark pants, and dark shoes. Your clothes must be nice and ironed, and make sure you are well groomed. Arrive at the interview 15 minutes early, and while waiting, be relaxed, and friendly to the receptionist or whoever is around you. Employers will generally see you out of the interview, and ask the receptionist for their first impression of you, so make sure you project yourself as confident, and capable. This is the critical part where researching the company beforehand will pay off, because you will demonstrate that you take initiative, and that you are genuinely interested in working there, and that this isn't just a "job to pay the bills." Employers want motivated people, not casual workers.  In the actual interview, have specific examples ready to demonstrate your qualifications. Generalities are not good enough, and unfortunately, can be an interview killer. Cite specific examples of previous experience to match the questions they are asking. If you need a second to think, it is better to take that second then to speak in generalities.

Post interview:

Following the interview, thank everyone for their time, and be sure to get a business card. When you get home, be sure to send a follow up email within 48 hours of your interview thanking them for their time. This will keep you fresh in their minds, and demonstrate professionalism, and courtesy. These simple steps can help you stand out from the crowd, and get your foot in the door to a great career as a security professional.