Job hunting? You must consider workplace security these days. It’s just one of the many things a 21st Century job search has to look at–especially since 9/11 The last thing you feel you should have to worry about is on-the-job-violence or any kind of workplace security threat.

Nonetheless, the statistics are disheartening. For many corporations workplace security has become the number one concern.

For example, it was recently reported that at least 30 percent of human resources officers at 100 of the nation’s largest companies reported deaths from workplace violence in the last five years.

What’s more, over 70 percent reported an average of 18 minor injuries. 66 percent reported an average of 31 incidents of minor property damage from office violence during the same period.

As a result, an increasing number of companies will cite violence as the number one workplace security issue. It’s no longer considered a management or organizational culture problem.

So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that 40 percent of the companies surveyed now have a formal written policy on organizational violence.

What does all this mean to you? If you are on the job you need to be aware of this mounting problem for your own safety. Familiarize yourself with company policy.

If you are considering a job change, this workplace security alert may be a factor for your consideration. For instance, your current employer may not place your safety high on the list of corporate priorities. This could be a reason for making a change.

On the other hand, if you are actively job searching, you’ll want to find out the policy of your next employer before you make any final decision. Asking assertive questions is essential to modern job search. You can no longer afford to sit passively and just answer questions.

The issue of workplace violence only confirms the rapid changes occurring in today’s sophisticated career market. Stay on top of the ever-changing job marketplace. Don’t miss out on critical career news and innovative job search strategies. Stay informed! It’s so easy to have immediate access to current trends and job hunting alerts.

It all comes down to taking control of your future. You can be sure that employers have factored their security into the hiring process. Just take a look at the preliminary background checks and testing that’s required in many corporations these days.

Likewise, you have to be ready to step up to the plate and inquire what’s the company policy regarding your personal safety. It should be as much of an issue for you as it is for the employer. When you look out for your own workplace security, you’re contributing to the security of the whole organization.

Image taken on 2009-09-28 14:14:58. Image Source. (Used with permission)