Security experts estimate a current turnover rate of 100-300% a year, on par with the fast food industry. High turnover rates make it hard for officers to get the training, experience, and knowledge of buildings and tenants they need to advance professionally. It also costs companies and clients money.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, it can cost a company the equivalent of one-third of an employee's annual salary to replace that individual. But what's worse is that high turnover is inherently dangerous in an industry charged with the security and safety of human beings.

While many in the real estate industry support better training for security personnel, high turnover rates among officers limits the benefits of these programs and keeps them from being cost-effective. To bring stability to this workforce, security jobs must be made into high quality jobs valued by everyone.

Higher, more professional levels of pay and benefits must be instituted to ensure that security workers earn a living wage, which would allow them to stay on the job longer. This also benefits security companies and their clients, building owners, and property managers. Opportunities for career advancement provide greater incentives for workers to stay on their jobs.