Get That Phone Out of My Face: Why Security Guards must train for the camera age
In today’s world, where nearly every bystander carries a smartphone capable of recording high-definition video, security guards operate under constant public scrutiny. Whether patrolling a shopping mall, managing crowd control at an event, or intervening in a heated altercation, there’s always the possibility that someone nearby is hitting “record.” The phrase “Get that phone out of my face!” may be a gut reaction, but it’s also a mistake—one that can escalate situations and damage reputations.
The New Normal: Being Filmed
Gone are the days when security work happened in relative anonymity. Now, a single viral clip—stripped of context—can bring a wave of criticism, legal troubles, or even job loss. It’s no longer just about what a guard does; it’s also about how they look doing it. That means professionalism isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Why Professionalism Requires Training
The cornerstone of professional conduct in high-stress environments is preparation. You can’t rely on instinct alone when emotions run high. Training teaches guards not only the legal limits of their authority but also how to maintain composure when tensions escalate—especially when there’s a camera inches from their face.
This includes:
De-escalation techniques: Knowing how to use tone, body language, and language to reduce tension.
Situational awareness: Understanding how the presence of cameras affects public perception and personal safety.
Communication skills: Responding calmly and assertively without sounding threatening or dismissive.
Without training, it’s easy to fall into the trap of reacting emotionally. A raised voice, a poorly chosen phrase, or a swipe at someone’s phone can make a manageable situation spiral out of control.
The Emotional Factor
Security guards often find themselves in emotionally charged environments. They’re expected to stay calm while others are losing control. Add in a phone in their face and the pressure multiplies. It feels invasive. It feels personal. But it’s not.
Staying professional under those conditions doesn’t come naturally—it must be practiced. Role-playing scenarios, stress inoculation exercises, and real-time coaching can all help guards build the resilience needed to maintain control under a lens.
The Bottom Line
In an era where every action can be recorded and replayed, professionalism is no longer just a best practice—it’s a survival skill. The phrase “Get that phone out of my face” might feel justified in the moment, but it never looks good on camera. The only reliable defense is training—rigorous, repeated, and reality-based.
Security work is tough. But with the right preparation, guards can do their job effectively, even when the whole world is watching.