We celebrate the retirement of AlarMax vice president of sales Jay Heffernan after more than 30 years in the security industry with his entry into the Best Advice Q&A series. He shares the best advice he’s ever gotten, advice he’s given to security industry newcomers and his business inspiration.
Security Sales & Integration: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Jay Heffernan: Always treat everyone that you interact with respect and kindness; this applies to everything you do professionally and personally.
SSI: What advice would you give to those looking to achieve success in the security industry?
Heffernan: The industry is constantly evolving with new technology and standards for the marketplace. As a professional in the industry, you should always be current and knowledgeable to any new standards and be a resource for your peers and customers.
Lastly, everyone should take the time to serve on industry boards and offer your insights to our industry.
SSI: If you could point to one person in the security industry and tell up-and-comers, “Make sure to listen to what they have to say,” whom would you pick and why?
Heffernan: Ralph Sevinor, president of Wayne Alarm in Lynn, Mass., is the gold standard for embracing young industry professionals and mentoring them in our industry. One of my first sales calls was to Ralph, who made me feel like a million dollars.
He gives back to our industry and even has a museum dedicated to the origins of electronic security and its progression. No better mentor or ambassador for our industry.
Click here to check out all entries in SSI’s Best Advice series!
