Lori Olney has been with Paladin as a Patient Sitter and Second-in-command for a little over a year.
What initially motived you to join the security industry?
In my previous job, I was working as a bartender. One night, the bouncer at the bar did not do his job very well, so long story short, I ended up doing it for him. I kicked out a patron who was harassing myself and my fellow bartender all evening. The next night, the same individual I kicked out, came back to apologize to me because he had been way too drunk. I have been in the security industry ever since, and I love it! Not only do I enjoy providing resolutions to situations, but it feels good to help and protect people as well.
Which unique traits do you believe women bring to security?
Besides experiencing an easier connection with women, there are also cases where a woman can relate better with the public. I find this especially true in hospital settings where there are new mothers, as well as worried moms or partners. Women can calm these individuals down in these situations because of our natural bond and motherly instincts. I have worked on many sites where someone took the role of a ‘momma bear’ who helps to train and guide everyone on the team.
How would you describe Paladin Security?
It has been a whirlwind. You really learn a lot about yourself when you are in a hospital for 12 hours a day. You see people at their happiest, but you also see them at their worst. It really puts things into perspective. Paladin has given me the chance to connect and help many people. It is really rewarding at times, especially when a family thanks me for sitting with a member all night. It gives you goosebumps, and it makes you glad you could help.
What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve received that you would pass on to women following in your footsteps?
Sometimes it is hard, since you can get twice as much push back than a male Security Officer does, but YOU can be the women who changes another person’s opinion. We need more women to join the security industry to change the perspective to women are strong.