What type of security issues do you most commonly face, and how do you typically respond?

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

First, take a moment to define the type of security situations you have faced in the past. Perhaps you have dealt with break-ins that resulted in property damage or stolen goods. Maybe you have more experience managing physical altercations. Whatever your background, take the time to bring it to life for the interviewer and explain how you typically respond.

As a Security Manager, you need to be quick on your feet and resolve emergencies in a timely fashion. Show off your critical thinking skills and your ability to make sound, informed decisions in the face of serious matters.

Focus on describing the security issues you have experienced and how you responded to those situations. For example, you may have experience with shoplifting while working as a Loss Prevention Officer. Discuss if you confronted the suspect, videotaped them, or called law enforcement. Typically, you will respond following the policy your employer has in place.

Avoid saying that you respond in a manner that violates security protocols. If the interviewer feels that you react inappropriately to the situation, they will determine that you could be a liability to the company if hired.

"In the security industry, a serious situation demands a serious response. Working as a Loss Prevention Officer, the security issue I most commonly faced was shoplifting incidents. First, I had to determine the impact and the scale of the incident. Then I had to interpret the situation, decide on a course of action, and act on it. Most of the time, speed is essential to containing the damage or risk. I found that confronting the suspect in a non-confrontational manner usually resolved the situation quickly."

"In my experiences working in public security and auxiliary for our local police service, I have faced situations ranging from people behaving mischievously due to intoxication to more serious altercations involving aggressive, violent behavior. Regardless of the cause, I can defuse a situation by staying calm and fair to all parties. I do not use force and lean more towards having a meaningful, emotionally calming conversation. I have training in conflict resolution, and this training is beneficial in situations that show signs of escalation."