How long have you been with Paladin?
I have been at Paladin security since June of 2016. My first position was a security guard at George Brown College in down town Toronto. I enjoyed the position and was a quick learner and promoted to team leader at the college in August 2016. On December 2016, I became a shift supervisor at the college and by February 2017, I switched sites and took on a Security Guard position at a Shopping Centre to obtain a “hands-on” approach in the security field. I have been at the shopping centre since and recently have become a Coaching Officer on site getting to train new hires and existing employees in various roles.
What initially motivated you to join the security industry?
I initially joined the security industry to better my competitiveness and prepare myself for a future role in policing. Having attended university, I grew a lot as an individual, but was still missing out on connecting with all aspects of my community. Being in security has given me the opportunity to work with all members of my community. I now have experience in dealing with children and adults of various backgrounds, confrontations, illicit drug users, and individuals affected by mental illness.
Which unique traits do you believe women bring to security?
This is a big one because more women are needed in the security field, as we are an asset. I find women have a tendency to be able to communicate effectively in high tension situations. I have personally found that as a woman, I am able to deescalate situations that my male counterparts may have a harder time with. Women are able to actively listen to the problem and come up with unique solutions based on our life experiences that our male coworkers may not have thought of. It is not the same for every person, however, I would much rather try and deescalate a situation than immediately place someone in hand restraints. Most of the time people simply need to vent and feel the need to be heard. Once they feel they have been heard, they are more likely to listen to instructions. There is active recruitment for women in policing because of the traits they bring to the field; security is no different.
How would you describe Paladin Security?
Paladin Security is a great company tat provides a lot of opportunity for learning and growing. The great thing about Paladin is there is no pressure to be an employee for life right away, but if you choose to do so, there are many avenues to make that possible. Paladin is adamant in making sure their employees are able to reach their future goals regardless of whether they stay with the company or choose to move one. I have had many co-workers get hired to police service but I have also seen Paladin promote a Guard to become a Client Manager/Scheduler and support the movement of Guards to various positions within their client's companies. There are also many opportunities to learn from classes to different sites. Paladin is a great option for those looking to gain the experiences security has to offer.
What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve received that you would pass on to women following in your footsteps?
Security is as much about enforcement as it is connecting with community members. You do not have to be an Olympic weight lifter or marathon runner to be a successful Security Guard. You have to be able to listen, care and use your problem-solving abilities to get through tough situations. Do not sell yourself short. There are also many sites to work at within Paladin; your first site does not have to be a “hands-on” site. Take your time and gain experience in communicating and problem solving and you will be able to tackle any site or any goal you may have within the security field. There is always someone willing to help so make sure you ask for help when you need it because it makes everything easier in the long run.