So many of us have been there: You didn’t get the raise your earned. A colleague takes credit for your work. A team member misses a deadline that puts your project at risk. Even something as simple as discovering your lunch missing from the break room fridge can trigger unexpected frustration. These seemingly small moments can accumulate and ignite strong emotions.In today’s complex workplace environment, anger management isn’t just a personal virtue—it’s a critical workplace competency. And maintaining a safe, composed environment requires teamwork between individuals, leadership, and often an unsung resource: your security team
Understanding Workplace Anger
According to the American Psychological Association, workplace stress costs U.S. employers more than $300 billion annually in absenteeism, reduced productivity, and healthcare costs. Anger is often a secondary emotion that stems from stress, frustration, or feeling disrespected—and when left unchecked, it can lead to disruptive or even dangerous behavior.
Consider the statistics from a UMass Lowell report on The Financial Burden of Job Stress.
- 40% of job turnover is due to stress
- 50% higher healthcare expenditures for workers with high levels of stress
- 120-200% cost to replace a stress-affected employee’s position
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) classifies workplace violence as any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the work site. Even lower-level incidents—raised voices, passive-aggressive behavior, or cold shoulders—can create a toxic atmosphere and reduce overall morale.
But here’s the good news: just like technical skills, emotional composure can be learned, practices and supported.
The Overlooked Role of Security Officers
Let’s say an employee—let’s call her Jordan—is visibly upset. She’s just learned her name was left off a project submission she led. She storms out of a meeting, raising her voice in frustration.
A trained security officer stationed nearby sees the signs: rapid movements, flushed face, aggressive posture. Rather than ignoring it, the officer calmly approaches, using open body language and a steady voice.
“Hey Jordan, I can tell something’s not sitting right. Let’s step aside and take a moment—you don’t have to go through this alone.”
By offering a safe, nonjudgmental space, the officer helps Jordan cool off, avoiding a potential scene in the office. They then offer to involve HR or a manager who can address the issue more constructively. What could’ve turned into a major disruption becomes an opportunity for support and redirection.
This kind of quiet intervention happens every day—and it makes all the difference.
6 Practical Tips for Maintaining Composure
While security personnel play a vital role in maintaining a safe, respectful work environment, individuals must also take responsibility for managing their emotions. Here are some best practices:
1. Name the Trigger
Before reacting, take a moment to pinpoint what exactly made you angry. Was it a person’s words, actions, or a broader sense of injustice? Ask yourself: “Will this still matter to me in a week?”
2. Pause and Breath
This is easier said than done, but essential. Deep breathing, counting to 100, or stepping outside for a few minutes can short-circuit your body’s fight-or-flight response.
3. De-Escalate, Don’t Engage
Even if you’re provoked, try not to retaliate. Engaging in a verbal sparring match rarely solves anything and often makes things worse. If necessary, walk away and revisit the issue when you’re calmer.
4. Consider the Other Side
Is there a chance you misunderstood? Could the other person be under stress themselves? Trying to see their point of view doesn’t mean you have to agree—but it might help you respond more thoughtfully.
5. Use Safe Outlets
Find a trusted confidant, mentor, or even a counselor to help you process your emotions. Avoid venting to coworkers who might unintentionally stoke the fire or spread gossip.
6. Learn Constructive Communication
When it’s time to address the issue, choose your words carefully:
- Maintain relaxed body language.
- Use a calm, even tone.
- Be specific about what’s bothering you, without exaggeration.
- Make requests rather than demands.
- State your point and then pause—don’t repeat yourself endlessly.
What Employers Can Do
Creating emotionally safe workplaces requires more than training manuals. It takes leadership, proactive policy and strong partnerships—including with your security services provider.
Here’s how companies can partner with their security teams for better outcomes:
- Invest in conflict resolution and anger management training for employees.
- Equip security officers with emotional intelligence and de-escalation tools.
- Designate quiet spaces or “cool-off” rooms for emotional reset moments.
- Encourage open communication and feedback loops with HR or leadership.
- Promote a culture of mutual respect and recognition.
When employees know they’re supported, seen, and protected—not just physically but emotionally—everyone performs better.
When to Seek More Help
If workplace anger becomes a recurring struggle, it’s a sign to dig deeper. There’s no shame in seeking help. Whether through online courses, local anger management groups, or licensed mental health professionals, there are many paths to building long-term composure.
Many companies also offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) with counseling support. Sometimes just one session with a professional can open the door to better self-awareness and healthier responses.
Final Thought
In high-pressure environments, composure isn’t weakness—it’s strength. Learning to navigate frustration, disappointment, and conflict with emotional intelligence is a core leadership skill at every level.
But composure is also a collective responsibility. From employees learning to manage their own emotions to trained security professionals stepping in with skill and empathy, we all play a part in creating safe, respectful, and productive workplaces.
So next time you feel the pressure rise—breathe. Pause. Respond, don’t react.
You might just be the reason the workplace stays calm, focused, and secure.
Download Our Guide Anger Management in the Workplace to share with your teams