Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Background Screening • Duress Code • Security Assessment

Use of Force

Term from Security industry explained for recruiters

Use of Force refers to the amount of effort required by security or law enforcement personnel to get someone to follow instructions or control a situation. It includes different levels of response, from simply talking to someone all the way up to using protective equipment. Security professionals need to understand when and how much force is appropriate for different situations to keep everyone safe and avoid legal issues. This term is important in security work because it shows that a candidate understands how to handle difficult situations properly and safely.

Examples in Resumes

Certified trainer in Use of Force and de-escalation techniques

Developed and implemented Use of Force policies for security team of 50+ officers

Maintained perfect record of appropriate Use of Force incidents over 5 years of service

Typical job title: "Security Officers"

Also try searching for:

Security Guard Security Officer Protection Officer Security Professional Public Safety Officer Loss Prevention Officer Security Supervisor

Where to Find Security Officers

Professional Organizations

Training Resources

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop a Use of Force policy for a security team?

Expected Answer: Should explain the process of creating clear guidelines that follow local laws, including different levels of force, reporting requirements, and training needs. Should mention consulting with legal experts and industry standards.

Q: How do you train officers in proper Use of Force decision-making?

Expected Answer: Should discuss creating realistic scenarios, regular refresher training, documentation methods, and the importance of de-escalation techniques. Should emphasize legal compliance and safety.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when deciding the appropriate level of force?

Expected Answer: Should mention subject's behavior, immediate threat level, surrounding environment, number of officers present, and legal requirements. Should emphasize de-escalation as the first option.

Q: Describe your process for documenting a Use of Force incident.

Expected Answer: Should explain gathering witness statements, writing detailed reports, collecting evidence like video footage, photographing any injuries, and proper notification of supervisors and authorities.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the Use of Force continuum?

Expected Answer: Should explain the basic levels from officer presence and verbal commands through physical control to protective equipment, emphasizing that force should match the situation.

Q: What is the first step in any potential Use of Force situation?

Expected Answer: Should emphasize de-escalation and verbal communication as the first steps, explaining how to try to resolve situations peacefully before considering any physical force.