Security: "When I arrive in a wheelchair, most people take a step back"
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Despite initial concerns about his handicap, he has found his dream job: Robert Fröhle. As a security guard, he keeps an eye on things, checks at the entrance, or directs vehicles. In an interview with VOL.AT, he explains what advantages a wheelchair can have in his everyday working life. He also talks about weapons and how the propensity to use violence has changed.
Robert Fröhle in the VOL.AT interview. ©VOL.AT/Schwärzler
"When I arrive in my wheelchair, they usually take a step back," he explains why his handicap can have a positive effect in conflicts. The party guests are usually surprised by his presence at first. "Then I explain to them that I do the job and that usually takes the wind out of their sails," he continues.
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The man from Feldkirch was not always convinced that he was up to the job in the security team. "We all had concerns at the beginning - even me - because it is not an easy job," he says, looking back seven years when he started at the Marent professional detective agency and security service. But Uwe Marent gave him the chance to try out the job. And it didn't just stop at trying it out. The team developed strategies and areas of operation that were suitable for the man from Feldkirch. It is not always possible, for example if there is no barrier-free access. This is sometimes lacking in event venues in Vorarlberg - for example if there is no lift and the event is on the second floor. But there are usually hidden paths, he says.
Robert Fröhle and the team. ©Handout
But what makes a good security guard? According to Fröhle, a good security guard needs "a calm demeanor, good perception and a quick reaction time". This is particularly important in tricky situations. He doesn't want to reveal exact de-escalation techniques and laughs - so that they work in an emergency.
Robert Fröhle tells VOL.AT about his job. ©VOL.AT/Schwärzler
He assesses the current situation as guests at events becoming more and more violent. "In the past, people were more verbal and simply discussed things," he says. That has changed: "People no longer discuss things, but are more likely to resort to violence."
According to the 42-year-old, pepper spray is now found in bags more often than before. Other weapons are always found in luggage at the entrance checkpoints, he concludes. Fortunately, he has not yet experienced any serious injuries in his career.
Security on duty at the Montforthaus. ©Handout
If things do escalate, Fröhle stays in the background and backs up his colleagues. He handles the emergency call and keeps an overview while his colleagues do "the hard work". This way, everyone can use their skills and special expertise. The team then benefits from this.
For the amateur photographer and employee of the Feldkirch City Office, a job in security means one thing above all: joy.
Robert Fröhle has worked at corporate events, night events and even at the Stanglwirt.
He likes dealing with people and meeting and getting to know new people. He advises anyone who still doesn't dare to pursue their dreams: "Just do it! There is always a solution. In my opinion, you can do almost anything these days."
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