There are many niches in the security industry. In which industries or sectors do you have the most security experience?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Focus Your Answer On
What to Avoid
Entry Level Example
Answer Example

Security Management opportunities can range from protecting buildings to the physical safety of people or overseeing safety during special events. Whether you are an expert in facility management or public safety, this is your opportunity to discuss how your experience applies directly to this position and how you will add value to the company. Share your professional background and reference the highlights of your experience.

Be sure to mention all industries or sectors where you have security experience, focusing on the ones you feel most qualified. If you have security experience in the sector the company works with, highlight how you will benefit the company with your knowledge and expertise.

If you are new to the security industry, avoid saying that you have no experience in a particular sector. Describe what area you studied in school, highlighting your direct experience as your specific area of study. For example, if your degree is in Corporate Security, that would be your area of expertise.

"As a recent graduate, I would say that my niche is Corporate Security, which is what my degree is in. While studying for my degree, I learned a great deal about protecting businesses from external and internal threats. I also have my Basic Security Training Course, which provided me with more generalist security knowledge. I feel that my education is broad enough that I can transfer my knowledge to nearly any niche; however, my true passion is in Corporate Security, which is why I have applied for this role."

"Before and after earning my degree in Security Management, I worked as a security officer for a few temp firms, which placed me in a wide range of opportunities all over the city. During my studies, my primary focus was on Events Security. I worked security for music events, festivals, shopping centers, grocery stores, and office buildings. These experiences benefitted me as I worked towards my degree because I could explore a wide range of industries and sectors. I was able to gain experience interning at a generalist security firm, and I learned so much, including effective communications, access control, crowd control, and emergency response. I plan to bring all of those skills to this position."