Professional Conduct & Leadership in Security and Business

By CPO Shumba, (ZISO)

In Zimbabwe, whether you’re in security, business, or leadership, your reputation is your currency. How you present yourself, communicate, and conduct business determines your success. Professionalism isn’t just about looking at the part it’s about discipline, respect, and strategic thinking.

Security professionals must uphold integrity, business leaders must negotiate smartly, and those in leadership must command respect. Let’s break it down so that we can all operate at a higher level, making things happen the right way.

1. Professionalism & Conduct in Security

Stand Up, Stand Tall

Never shake hands while sitting. In security, presence matters. Standing up to greet someone shows confidence, respect, and authority. Whether you’re meeting a client or attending a briefing, always stand and engage fully.

Diplomatic Communication – Don’t Disrespect Your Host

When you’re a guest, whether in a meeting, at a business lunch, or on duty, never criticize what is offered. Complaining about food or accommodations shows poor character. In security and business, diplomacy is everything. You must know how to navigate different environments without burning bridges.

Integrity: No Shortcuts, No Credit for Work You Didn’t Do

Security is built on trust. If you take credit for work you didn’t do, you weaken your credibility. Always acknowledge the efforts of your team. Clients, partners, and colleagues respect those who own up to their actions, good or bad.

Protect Those Behind You, Respect Those Beside You

Whether in security or business, leadership means looking out for others. Protect your team, your clients, and the people who rely on your expertise. Respect your colleagues. Teamwork makes everything smoother. When people see that you genuinely care, they will follow your lead.

2. Negotiation & Business Development

The First Offer? Let Them Speak First!

Never make the first offer in a negotiation. Whether you’re bidding for a security contract or discussing business terms, let the other party speak first. Why? It gives you the advantage. You gain insight into their expectations and can then position yourself strategically.

Your reputation is your brand

Your word must be gold. If you do good work, let your results speak. Don’t steal ideas, don’t take shortcuts, and never exploit others. A strong reputation in security and business opens more doors than any amount of marketing ever will.

Dress Like You Mean Business

Security professionals, business owners, and leaders dress well, no matter the occasion. Your appearance dictates how people perceive you. A sharp uniform, a well-pressed suit, or even clean casual attire tells people you take yourself seriously.

Communicate with Clarity & Honesty

Say what you mean and mean what you say. Whether reporting an incident, making a business proposal, or leading a team, honesty, and clarity make all the difference. People trust those who communicate with purpose.

Ask More, Talk Less

Good leaders and security professionals ask questions before making assumptions. Whether conducting a risk assessment or negotiating a deal, gather information first. Knowledge is power.

3. Leadership & Personal Development

Professional Language – Leave the Profanity to the Unprofessional

If you want to be respected, speak with intelligence. Swearing and unprofessional language cheapen your brand. Security professionals, business owners, and leaders must know how to command respect with words, not aggression.

Situational Awareness: Put the Phone Down!

If you’re in a meeting, at a client’s office, or having a business lunch, don’t put your phone on the table. It signals distraction and disrespect. Stay engaged, listen, and show that you value the conversation.

Networking & Building Meaningful Relationships

Success in security and business isn’t just about skills. It’s about relationships. Smile, make eye contact, and listen. When people feel heard and valued, they trust you. Trust builds long-term business success.

Respect Boundaries – If You’re Not Invited, Don’t Ask to Go

In both security and business, knowing when to step in and when to step back is crucial. Respect exclusivity. If you weren’t invited to a meeting or business deal, don’t force your way in. Create value, and next time, they’ll invite you.

Never Be Ashamed of Your Background

Where you come from doesn’t determine where you’re going. Many top security professionals, business leaders, and successful entrepreneurs started with nothing. Hard work, discipline, and strategy are what elevate you. Own your journey and use it as motivation.

Don’t Beg for Relationships – Add Value Instead

Whether you’re seeking business contracts, partnerships, or professional relationships, never beg. Instead, demonstrate value. Show potential clients and partners why they need you. People respect those who offer solutions, not those who plead for opportunities.

Final Thoughts: Make It Happen!

These principles are simple, but they separate professionals from amateurs. Security isn’t just about physical protection, it’s about ethics, discipline, and leadership. Business isn’t just about making money. It’s about trust and strategy. Leadership isn’t about authority. It’s about influence and respect.

Let’s operate with excellence. Let’s build reputations that open doors. Let’s lead by example.

Zimbabwe, let’s make it happen, home and away!