Security is a topic of discussion in almost every business. Having the right security plan and measures will help your business thrive with fewer worries. The cost of hiring the best security guards may seem high at first, but it’s worth it in the long run. Security guards provide an affordable way to increase your company’s security level and keep your employees, visitors, and inventory safe from potential threats. You may think that hiring security guards is only necessary if you have large amounts of expensive inventory or company secrets you need to protect.
However, even businesses with little stock can still be an easy target for thieves looking for a place to take advantage of unsuspecting victims who might not expect anyone to show up at their office after hours. A lot of small businesses also are not equipped with cameras or other security options unless they hire a private guard service. Here are six tips for hiring security guards that are worth it:
Decide What You Need
Before you start seeking out security guard services, decide what you need. Not all security guard services are created equal, and the details of your situation will affect which services you need the most. If your business is in a high-risk location and you need to be able to monitor the entrance and exit points, you may need constant, on-site security guards.
If you just need someone to walk around the building at night, you can probably get by with off-site guards who come in when you close the shop for the evening. Also, if your business deals with large amounts of cash or inventory, you might want to hire guards who are bonded and insured. If you need extra security, such as installing an alarm system, or you want to protect customers as well as employees, you’ll need to hire different types of guards.
Hire Best Security Guards Guards
Since you are paying for security services, you want to make sure that your guards are trained to do their job well. Typical security guard companies will require a hiring process and will conduct background checks, drug tests, and interviews with potential employees. Once hired, they will typically train new employees on the job, which is acceptable as long as they are trained by a licensed instructor. Also, you will want to make sure that your security guard company hires guards who are properly trained for their positions.
At the minimum, guards should have training in basic customer service, first aid, and communication skills. Guards who are properly trained in security guard techniques can help you. Avoid unnecessary liabilities and protect your business from lawsuits.
Shop Around
If you are hiring security guards on your own, you will want to shop around for the best prices. By shopping around, you can find out what security guard companies in your area are charging for services. You can also talk to your business associates and see what companies they recommend. Check with the Better Business Bureau and look online for any complaints against the companies you are considering hiring. You may also want to contact security guard companies and ask how they charge for services. Some companies might add additional fees, while others will charge per hour, per guard, or shift.
Know The Difference Between Guards & Security Guards
Not all security guards are created equal. There are many different types of security guards such as loss prevention, polygraph, and executive protection security guards. Make sure that any security guard company you work with is properly licensed and certified for the services you need. Loss prevention security guards are responsible for protecting merchandise from shoplifters and inventory shrinkage.
They typically work in retail stores, grocery stores, and convenience stores. Best security guards are licensed to administer lie detector tests. They’re often used for sensitive positions. Like those in law enforcement or government, and in environments where trust is important, such as in schools. Executive protection security guards are responsible for the safety of clients and VIPs. They typically work in hotels, events, and sports stadiums.
Check Licensing
Determine if your security guard company is licensed and if its officers are certified and accredited. You should also check to see if your security guard company has any complaints against them. If they have multiple complaints, stay away from them. A good way to start is to check if your state or county requires licensing or certification. This can often be found on the state’s government website or by contacting your local government office.
Your state board of guards or security board is also a good place to start. These departments license, inspect, and oversee all security guard companies in your state and can tell. You which companies are accredited, certified, and licensed. They can also tell you which companies have complaints against them and if there are any lawsuits against the company.
Ask About Track Record
While you are checking certification and licensing, make sure the security guard company’s officers have a good track record. Ask about their record in the industry, years of experience, and what types of clients they usually work with. You can also ask about any previous lawsuits that have been filed against the company for any reason. You also want to make sure that the security guard company has experience in your industry. Guard companies that specialize in retail might not be as helpful in an office environment.
Conclusion
When hiring security guards, make sure you follow the tips above to ensure you are hiring the best security guards that are worth the money. Having the right security plan and measures will help your business thrive with fewer worries. Your employees, visitors, and inventory will be safe from potential threats. You’ll have peace of mind knowing you have the right security measures in place.