There seems to be a lot of turn-over in the corporate offices of private security firms these days. Managers and administrators in their swanky office cubicles are facing lay-offs, performance audits and other issues. Some administrators decide to leave abruptly with little to no notice. Unfortunately, the managers who leave abruptly are sometimes the ones actually doing their jobs correctly. On the other hand one incompetent district manager fool lasted thirty days. I guess he didn’t know anyone on the “inside” But that is an aside.
These periodic purges have an effect on those of us in the field. The new managers, who were brought in from outside the company generally, are intent on making a name and position for themselves and are intent on reforming as much as possible to provide themselves with accolades, laurels and bonus checks.
This desire for their own recognition trickles down to the guards in that the new manager is seeking to improve perceived performance and especially value for their clients. Clients being the owners or operators of the posts where we are contracted.
So the new nuggets are most likely to clamp down hard on any issues like problems on a post or requests for raises. As far as raises go you can pretty much forget about that even with a seasoned manager. You are more likely to experience new uniform requirements, increased frequency of post audits and inspections and (perceived) ways to cut costs and save money.
If you look at some of my other posts you may realize that guards falling asleep is not so abnormal. However, smoking dope or stealing is a sure-fire way to cause some serious problems. So, if you are a younger security guard beware. Separate your work life from your partying ways. Have your fun at home and save work for work. Stay awake by getting enough rest. And as far as stealing? Come on people, we are security. Theft is what we are trying to prevent.
When a new manager starts working, they are usually hardest on the younger guards who may already have some issues. I know I did. When I was a young guard going to school I was working a split shift: three graveyard and two swing shifts. So, I was tired pretty much all the time. Also, I thought the field manager was a fucking idiot for demanding that I cut my hair at each far too frequent post inspection. Fortunately, the site manager was a kind navy vet who was just glad I showed up on time and did not create any problems. I did end up leaving that company, however that job got me through the semester as I was able to study while I worked. Ah youth.
Another piece of advice? Get along. Some people make it really hard, I know. But, if you can manage to not make any waves, especially when you have a new manager looking to purge problematic guards, then you are definitely a leg ahead.
Supplies To Keep In Your Vehicle In Order To Get Home
The small kit called an every day carry or EDC, will vary according to each person that makes one. You can search the web and find a lot of ideas of what to put in that kit. You can even buy a pre-made EDC kit, but I like to create my own. You will want something to write on and a pen. You will likely want a knife or two. You might like to have a few first aid supplies. Base your first aid supplies on your personal expertise. Some skilled security officers may opt for a separate substantial first aid kit. You might want to have one or two flashlights. If you have been working in security for any length of time you likely already have that flashlight. You will likely want a little more substantial weapon depending on the laws of your state. I like to carry an extra canister of pepper spray besides the one I already carry. You might also want to have a couple of food bars. You can carry all of the EDC goodies in a fanny pack.
The next level involves the supplies you keep in your vehicle in order to get home. This is also called a Get Home Bag or GHB. First of all you need a decent comfortable pack in case you need to walk. You will need some good walking shoes. You might want to have some extra clothing to keep you warm and some extra socks. Walking is hard on the feet and clean socks really help keep you going. You may want to consider a small emergency shelter like a small tent or tarp in case you need to shelter in place or your walk home takes a few days. You may want a more substantial weapon like a handgun or even a carbine rifle. Of courses and as always, be aware of your local laws. Be aware that if your area comes under martial law your firearms may be confiscated and your supplies searched and possibly impounded. Just ask Hurricane Katrina survivors in New Orleans. You will want to have a few days supply, maybe up to a week, of food and water. Since the idea is to get home, try to travel light if you can.
Also, they have the basics available to anyone at their canneries at very, very reasonable prices. Did I say very? Well let me add another very! security agencies in londonIf you are not Mormon they will still help you. You can even tell them you are a security guard. Heck, they may give you an extra can lid or something….
The Breda Fallacy 