I Learnt More Communication as a Security Officer Than Harvard Taught Me

When I landed my first security job, I thought I had a decent grasp of English. However, I soon realised that mastering the language and actually communicating effectively are two entirely different things. Little did I know that this job would not only refine my communication skills but also boost my confidence more than any academic course ever could.

Overcoming Fear and Building Confidence

As a security officer, my role required me to be assertive and face my fears head-on. One particular incident stands out vividly. I had to confront a towering man who I suspected of shoplifting. This was a pivotal moment for me, as it forced me to muster up the courage to handle the situation with confidence and authority. Security work often places you in challenging scenarios, compelling you to develop a calm and composed demeanour. This transformation was crucial in building my self-assurance.

Enhancing Observation and Customer Service Skills

Being on the front line, I interacted with a wide array of people daily. This constant interaction sharpened my observation skills and taught me the finer points of customer service. I learnt to detect suspicious behaviour and respond appropriately. These skills are vital for any security officer, significantly impacting their effectiveness on the job. Moreover, these observation and customer service skills are transferable to many other professions, making them invaluable assets.

Gaining Cultural Awareness and Essential Knowledge

Security jobs expose you to various cultural backgrounds, enhancing your understanding and empathy towards different communities. This cultural awareness is invaluable, especially in a multicultural society like the UK. Additionally, I gained practical knowledge about drugs, arrest procedures, and writing detailed reports—skills essential for maintaining safety and order. This exposure broadened my perspective and made me more culturally competent.

Building Effective Police Liaison Skills

Effective communication with the police is another critical aspect of a security officer’s role. Building a good relationship with local law enforcement can facilitate smoother operations and ensure incidents are handled efficiently. My job taught me the importance of clear, concise, and accurate communication with the police, which is vital for promptly resolving issues. These skills in liaising with authorities have proven beneficial in various aspects of my life.

Developing Independence and Self-Reliance

During my time at BP Safeway, I worked for Securicor, not directly for the store. This situation often left me feeling isolated, as I had no colleagues to rely on. However, it also made me independent and self-reliant. I had to make decisions on my own and take responsibility for my actions. This job equipped me with skills that even prestigious institutions like Harvard didn’t teach. Independence and self-reliance are crucial qualities that have served me well throughout my career.

Learning Assertiveness and Composure

Being a security officer teaches you how to be assertive without being aggressive. You learn to stand your ground while maintaining a professional and respectful attitude. These lessons in assertiveness and composure are invaluable, not just in security work but in everyday interactions. They help you navigate difficult situations with grace and authority.

The Broader Impact of Front-Line Experience

People often underestimate how much they can learn from front-line jobs. As a security officer, you deal with a wide range of situations and people, which helps you develop a multitude of skills. These include enhanced communication, better observation, improved customer service, cultural understanding, and the ability to handle stressful situations with calm and composure. These experiences collectively contribute to personal growth and professional development.

The Comprehensive Skills Gained in Security Training

Many people don’t realise the extensive training that security officers undergo. Here’s a glimpse of what we learn:

• Civil and Criminal Law
• Drugs Awareness
• Fire Safety
• First Aid
• Customer Service
• Searching Techniques
• Health & Safety
• Communication Skills
• Conflict Management
• Report Writing
• Looking after Vulnerable People
• Physical Intervention
• Use of Force
• Terrorism Awareness

If these courses were taught individually, they would cost ten times what the usual Door Supervisor Training costs. I believe everyone should undertake this course, regardless of whether they plan to work on the front line or not. This training provides a solid foundation and heightens awareness. These skills are portable and applicable in various work settings.

Conclusion: The Power of Communication Skills

The SIA has done an excellent job with this course. For the past 20 years, I’ve been promoting this course and the security industry. This job was the genesis of Get Licensed. Since 2007, we’ve helped over a million people get trained, licensed, and find work.

I urge you to head to Get Licensed YouTube channel and watch the security and first aid training videos. Share them with your family and friends. My journey as a security officer was transformative. It taught me how to communicate effectively, be assertive, and remain calm under pressure. These skills are not only essential for a successful career in security but also valuable in all aspects of life.

For those starting in this field, embrace the challenges and learn from every experience. Your communication skills and overall confidence will grow immensely, preparing you for whatever life throws your way.

Shahzad Ali