The Security Event 2024 is poised to be the largest in the UK, with expectations to surpass the 2023 event that attracted 11,000 visitors and 275 exhibitors. This year aims to bring together over 14,000 industry professionals and 350 exhibitors showcasing 10,000 product solutions, highlighting the event's significant growth and offering unparalleled networking opportunities within the fire and security industry. Set in the NEC Birmingham, a prime location with ample parking and accessibility, the event encourages learning and interaction among professionals with a tailored education program and various networking opportunities, including face-to-face meetings with consultants from companies like Technical Resources. Attendees are advised to come prepared to make the most of the event, with suggestions to bring notebooks, business cards, and to prioritize their needs for a more fruitful experience.

What Recruiters Want – Soft Skills in High Demand for Fire and Security Technical expertise is a must in any job. The Fire and Security industry is no exception. In addition to technical skills, recruiters in this field look for a different set of skills to ensure that candidates can meet the unique demands of the job. Soft skills can help candidates stand out. When you're up against other qualified candidates, you need all the advantages you can get. Here are some of the most valuable soft skills to highlight when interviewing for a Fire and Security position: Analytical Problem-Solving In this field, you'll be faced with a variety of challenges. Candidates are expected to be highly proficient in problem-solving to tackle these head-on. This skill isn't just about fixing issues. It's about being able to think on your feet to solve complex problems and come up with the best solutions that fit within a project's constraints. For someone who will be the go-to person for designing a state-of-the-art security system or fine-tuning a crucial fire alarm setup, this skill is essential. Adaptability and Flexibility In an industry that's constantly evolving with new technologies and regulations, your ability to adapt and stay flexible is another valuable asset. Recruiters are always on the lookout for candidates who thrive with change and can incorporate new tools and processes. They’re thinking about how well you can meet the needs of the company and its customers who want the latest innovations at their disposal. Collaboration and Teamwork Like most other fields, the Fire and Security sector is a team effort. Being able to work well with others is a valuable trait. It's not just about being able to get along with people. You need to be able to connect with your colleagues and build strong working relationships, even in stressful situations. No matter what, you and your team need to be focused on achieving the best possible outcome. Effective Communication Many of the candidates you’re competing with will have a similar (or better) technical background to your own. But if you’re able to communicate complex technical details in a way that’s easy to understand even for someone without the same knowledge, you can use this to differentiate yourself. A candidate who can explain intricate systems to customers just as well as they discuss them with their peers is not always easy to find. If you can highlight this skill during an interview, you can position yourself as more than just the average applicant. Customer Service Orientation And finally, a customer-centric approach can really make you stand out. In this industry, companies are always trying to meet and exceed customer expectations. Since you’ll be seen as a representative of the company, Recruiters want to know if you can help build lasting relationships with customers. Showing that you understand a customer’s needs and making sure they have a positive experience is just as important as providing an effective solution for the project. When you go into a Fire and Security interview, don’t just focus on what’s on your resume. Show off all the ways you’re a well-rounded professional who would be a great addition to any team.