Walk me through your security-related education and training.

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

The interviewer wants a complete understanding of your education and its relation to your success in this role. As an experienced Security Manager or an aspiring Security Manager, you have likely completed training around security policies, security procedures, emergency preparedness, self-defense, and perhaps even First Aid and CPR.

Maybe you have a degree in Security Management, where you learned the foundations of security, security-related ethics, and the workings of various security systems. You may have some education in Management or Business. Perhaps you have completed coursework related to planning security programs or training other security officers.

Take the time to walk the interviewer through your education. Include a qualifying statement about how this education has prepared you to succeed in this position.

Focus your answer on describing education that relates to the security industry. You may have other degrees or certifications related to another field, but the interviewer is most interested in your education and training in the security field.

Avoid saying that you do not feel it is necessary to receive training or education related to the security industry. Working as a Security Manager is technical and complex. The interviewer wants to hear that you have the education and training they seek in a Security Manager or that you are willing to be educated and receive on-the-job training.

"I recently graduated high school and completed a formal Security Manager training course. I received a certificate of completion and learned about security policies and procedures, self-defense, and emergency preparedness. I then received my First Aid, CPR, and AED certification. I am enrolled at the community college and am working on obtaining my associate's degree in security management. I enjoy continual education and plan to go on to receive my bachelor's degree in criminal justice in the next three years."

"I began my security-related education by taking an online Security Officer certification approximately five years ago. This certification focused on security ethics, security systems, and the basic framework of security procedures. After gaining this certificate, I obtained my state's licensure to work as a Security Officer. In tandem with my Security Officer role, I completed a degree online in Security Management focusing on Major Events. Some of the biggest takeaways from this education include risk and emergency management, disaster planning, public safety, leadership, and business administration. My education, coupled with my ten years of experience in the security industry, has prepared me to meet the needs of your security firm while exceeding the expectations of this role and acting as a source of training and development for your existing and future security teams."