Photo by: Asset Security Consultancy

From the layman’s perspective, a career in security is drab. At the low end, you are a rent-a-cop or a bouncer. At the higher end you get to use earpieces and possibly protect someone important like a celebrity or politician. Given this perspective, it is not surprising that many young people are not jumping at the chance to launch their careers in the security industry.

However, for those of us in the business or even someone who has done a little research, we know that such a limited understanding of security isn't accurate. In fact, security is actually a growth industry with almost universal salary increases over the past few years. According to ASIS and other security organizations the median salary has risen 9 percent in the past year. Considering that reality, it shouldn't be long before security gains proper recognition as an excellent career choice and begins to gain favor with the college students of today. In anticipation of those needs, I have assembled a list of sure-fire strategies to help you stay competitive in this rapidly evolving industry.

1. Consider a degree in security

As security challenges evolve, it is critical to have the education necessary to properly meet them. Many universities like Penn State and the are offering solutions to meet the needs of working professionals. For example, they have recently released a 33 credit-hour Masters Degree in Homeland Security. The degree has 5 different specializations, including “Geospatial Intelligence” and “Public Health Preparedness.” Academic qualifications have always been an excellent way to distinguish yourself as well as to look sharp for possible management positions as they open up. As I will discuss later, a masters in Risk Management is another great way to move up, and prestigious universities such as NYU’s Stern Business School are offering them. Probably the best feature about the majority of these programs is that they are online or during nights and weekends – allowing you to keep your job, keep learning, and keep your options open.

2. Security managers address security, executives manage risk

As Security Magazine poignantly noted, there is a big difference between security managers and C-level executives such as CSOs. In the middle years of your career, it may behoove you to know the distinction and how to get there. Senior security analysts often run into a wall – being stuck as the implementer of programs that higher executives decide upon. To get around that “cap” on advancement, you must fight to increase your skill set and change the perceptions of those you work with. Can you contribute more than just security? How can you bridge the gap between security and high-level risk assessment that goes beyond physical and cyber safety? Education is good start, but look for ways to become multifaceted whenever possible. It may land you a promotion now as well as more options later in your career.

3. Attend trade shows and continuing education as much as possible

In the last 20 years continuing education has exploded in size and availability, driven primarily by communication technologies such as the internet. While there are a variety of reasons for seeking further education, advancing a career or seeking mobility in the same industry are high on the list. As an alternative to an all out degree in security, these courses keep you fresh and up to date, while demonstrating commitment and ambition to your boss.

Similarly, trade shows also keep you exposed to the latest technologies and services that are around today. Large security forums such as ASIS and BOMA are wonderful opportunities to network and bring home valuable information for your company. Keep in mind that limiting your knowledge and network to one company will limit your possibilities for advancement. Building a strong social network, seeking education, and staying up to date maximizes your value across all firms, and gives you the greatest strength in decision making when it comes to your career.

4. Find out where the money is

"Whoever said money can't buy happiness simply didn't know where to go shopping." – Actress Bo Derek

Many career development professionals talk about finding your passion, and helping you find it is beyond the scope of a single blog post. However, I think it is also important to keep in mind that we are always changing and evolving to meet the needs of others. We change to make our boss happy, our spouse happy, and for our parents and children. In that context, it is critical to research and predict where the opportunities, job security, and ultimately money are. Finding a way to do what you love is important, but it is critical to find which sectors of your industry are growing. Would it be best to specialize in IT security? Are there more opportunities doing technical support for security, consulting for security systems, or being an installer? Be sure to take a peek at growth sectors as you are doing your research. Ultimately it will lead to security for yourself and your family – the financial kind of course, not access control.