Empowerment
To keep up with the ever-changing industry, various training programs and seminars are available. “I would recommend leadership training on an ongoing basis, and participation and credentialing with ASIS International — it provides training for all facets of security,” Pryse suggested. Taking part in associations like the Women's Security Council also allows women to connect with other female peers in the industry for mentorship or social networking assistance. Female veterans provide great inspiration for new entrants to draw from when building a career in this industry.
Aside from further education, interacting with other industry experts face-to-face is another way to fast-track. “Trade shows are a great place to learn about the latest,” Romano said. “But nothing beats talking directly to customers and hearing about what they want and need, seeking input on their experiences — both good and bad.”
Manufacturer representatives are a great source of product knowledge, Pittman added. “They are experts of equipment, from whom one could learn about the various features and functions of different types of devices. Having this knowledge increases one's credibility and provides a sense of confidence in the solution-based industry.”
Hands-on experience with system installation and integration is beneficial, if not essential, regardless of gender. “Throughout the years, I have come to understand both installation issues and ways of improvement for system integrators, which were learned from actual installation practices,” Lee said. “Our sales team carries out simple installations at trade shows, and from these practices they understand what issues integrators might run into. These queries get reported back to the R&D team.”
Women should have hands-on experience with system installation and integration if they are going to provide any type of oversight in the security arena, Pryse added. “Physical security is paramount in the holistic approach to a safe environment; the practitioner must understand how the various systems interface with one other.”
In spite of a higher male population, security is no longer a male industry today. “It used to be that for a woman to play in a ‘man's field,' she would have to become ‘one of the guys,' often compromising her integrity and morals if she wanted to get ahead,” Burke said. “For the most part, that is no longer the case. Women have been advancing their careers by proving beyond doubt, they are knowledgeable, technologically savvy and able to quickly and creatively adapt to new trends and dynamic shifts.”
Changing Times
More women are taking over top-management positions in the security industry, as seen in various recent appointments. With growing changes come new and exciting opportunities for women looking to establish a career in security. Do not limit yourself; do not give excuses based on your gender, Lee said. “Security is full of great opportunities, and it does seem more recession-proof than other industries. Be aware that you need a tough shell and must be willing to learn all facets of security to be more readily accepted in an industry that is still male-dominated — even though this is changing,” Hups said.
The effort one devotes to his or her career development will bear fruit in the form of job promotions or greater responsibilities, Lee said. Oftentimes, advancements made on the career ladder depend on personal qualities and traits, not gender. “Promotions go to ones who do the best jobs and help the company grow,” Zhou said. “Women should break free from the notion that they need to work extra hard in a male-dominated world just because of their gender. They should continue to empower and enrich themselves with industry knowledge and think of ways to improve personal skill sets. Otherwise, they are quitting before even starting.”
Learn the industry, know the products you are selling/ using, understand the technologies and build good relations with channel partners in order to be successful, Zhou said. "This applies to both sexes."
“The advice that I would give to anyone, male or female, is to become an expert in your chosen field and maintain that expertise with a constant and unfailing thirst and passion for continuing education, knowledge and experience,” Burke said. “Don't be afraid to take risks and always remember that wisdom is gained through both success and failure. Only those who have experienced both will be the greatest leaders of tomorrow.”