Dealing with Co-Workers

 Security officers/guards are just like regular people. In every company, whenever humans interact, quarrels, disagreements, arguments, will exist. Especially in the work place. Yet, security guards are different in one respect: we're given the responsibility to protect life and property. This gives us a sense of authority that can grow out of control and cause many to break simple security codes.

 However, other guards have an attitude that they don't care, and lack common sense or training. This is why there is so many stories of security guards in the news. We're either shown praise for helping someone, ridiculed, or acting in a way that gives all other guards a bad name.  

Sooner or later, you'll end up working with a guard that is on an ego trip, or not a people person and comes across as the person you don't want to mess with. Here's some tips on dealing those rude, and unfriendly co-workers.

1. Limit as much interaction as you can.  If this is a new post, find out whatever pass down information there is and what's going on. Don't seem to eager to converse, but remain friendly. 
2. Make sure your attitude is in check. (people can detect body language and most attitudes are seen without even one word being said) Read their body language. 
3. Don't get personal. (keep your comments to yourself) Don't share personal information. (whatever you say can and will be used against you, if this person is vindictive)
4. Don't be intimidated. (if they are armed, it is especially important you don't do or say anything to provoke them. Guards have shot each other in the past. It happens.)
5. Should you have a legitimate complaint against him/her, follow the chain of command: supervisor first, then manager. If you cannot get assistance, contact your state's security bureau. Do this if your manager has committed any offense against your or has violated state security laws.
6. Should you be presented with a situation that requires legal action, notify a lawyer, police, a person of real authority. Record as much detail of the incident prior to calling for help. Include names, dates, location, people involved, etc. Also, take photos. Get documented proof.

 Dealing with a manager of a security company can also be challenging, since he/she is your employer and can fire you at will. However, no employer can fire you unless they have documented proof that you've broken a company rule or committed a serious offense that gives them the legal right. Regardless of false witnesses or false testimonies on paper, any experienced lawyer may discredit them if there is enough merit. 

 Never work for a boss that demands you to work a schedule you can't, or shows little regard for your concerns or insists on assigning a post you can't handle.  A good manager will make sure you are completely trained, have the proper gear, and sufficient self-defense training. 

 It would be a good idea to attend a well respected security school that offers it. Do research on schools in your town/city and check local Better Business Bureau ratings. Perhaps get recommendations from your state's security bureau.  Email them if needed.

 However, in security, there is very little control over your post. They can assigned to a high-rise, office, retail, construction sites, etc in any part of town.  Guard companies are in the business of supplying their customers with reliable guards. Yet, that shouldn't excuse their unacceptable business practices.

Places of interest to check should you need answers about your job or need a lawyer. 

1. Local state government Website (click here)
2. Department Of Labor  http://www.dol.gov/
3. Bureau Of Labor Statistics http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos159.htm
4. NELA (National Employment Lawyer's Assoc.) http://www.nela.org/NELA/