When I got started in the security industry I had a simple goal in mind. I wanted an easy job that I could do while putting myself through college. I imagined that I would be sitting on my ass, eating donuts, and drinking coffee in some warehouse while some thief would trick me, leaving me to deal with the aftermath of the theft. I still tried to do my job when I felt it mattered. Did I truly care? No, and neither did my employers. I did what I needed to do when I felt I had to do it. This era of my career had its purpose; it was actually a fun time.
The more time I spent in this industry the higher pay I got based on my experience. I found myself in situations that felt exciting and rewarding while interacting with seemingly shady characters that took the form of my supervisors, managers, and CEOs.
I received 7 different paychecks due to lawsuits settled from prior companies I have worked for throughout my career. I never questioned what this said about the industry until I got into more high-prestige security positions.
There is a barrier between working a security job and creating a career in the security industry. The main barriers are; prior military experience, prior law enforcement experience, or over 10 years of security experience. There are companies whose entire mission is giving you what you need to fit the standard. Unions, benefits, and government contracts. The best outcome for some "Paul Blart" mfs is to get into one of these official companies. Government contracts and benefits are the far target to aim for. Anyone who has been in this industry for over a decade will tell you the same.
What does this mean for you as a client of a run-of-the-mill security company? It means you will be forced, without your consent, into a category. Depending on the protection you want and which company is willing to provide that protection, you will be placed into a category. How much can you afford? How important are you? What do you have to lose? Remember, at this level you are entering the realm of mercenaries; when they offer protection, they do not care about your needs or feelings, only how much you are worth.