Handling Unwanted Attention: A Security Guard's Guide to the Limelight

Security work is supposed to be about vigilance and protection, not personal recognition. Yet sometimes circumstances thrust guards into the spotlight; whether through a heroic intervention, a viral video, or simply being present during a newsworthy incident. For professionals trained to blend into the background, this attention can feel uncomfortable and even counterproductive.

Stay Professional, Not Personal

When media or curious onlookers approach you, remember that your employer's interests come first. Politely redirect questions to your supervisor or the organization's public relations team. A simple "I'm not authorized to comment, but you can contact our management" protects both you and your company from potential liability or misrepresentation.

Resist Social Media Impulses

The urge to share your side of the story online can be strong, especially if accounts seem inaccurate. Resist it. Social media posts can complicate legal matters, violate confidentiality agreements, or create security vulnerabilities. What feels like setting the record straight today might become evidence in court tomorrow.

Keep Your Guard Up, Literally

Increased visibility can make you a target. Be mindful of sharing personal information, your schedule, or details about security procedures. Those seeking to exploit vulnerabilities often gather intelligence from public sources.

Let It Pass

Public attention has a short memory. Today's headline becomes tomorrow's forgotten story. Continue doing your job with the same professionalism that likely earned you recognition in the first place. Most guards who've experienced their fifteen minutes of fame report that the best strategy is simply waiting it out while maintaining their routine.

The best security guards are the ones nobody notices, until they're needed. When circumstances make you visible, handle it with the same steady composure you bring to the job itself.