10 Things to Think About When Choosing a Security Company to Keep Your Business Safe

When it comes to hiring a security company, there are a lot of factors to consider. As a business owner, keeping my company secure is a top priority, and I want to make sure I choose the right company for the job. Here are 10 important things to keep in mind when selecting a security company to protect your business:

1. Experience: How long has the security company been in business? Experience matters when it comes to handling potential threats and keeping your business safe.

2. Reputation: What do others say about the security company? Look for customer reviews and ratings to get an idea of their reputation and track record.

3. Services: What specific services does the security company offer? Do they provide 24/7 monitoring, on-site security guards, or advanced surveillance technology?

4. Training: Are the security personnel well-trained? Make sure the company has a rigorous training program in place to ensure their employees are prepared for any situation.

5. Customization: Can the security company tailor their services to meet your business’s specific needs? Every business is unique, so it’s important to find a company that can provide personalized security solutions.

6. Licensing and Insurance: Is the security company properly licensed and insured? This is crucial for their credibility and to protect your business in case of any incidents.

7. Emergency Response: How quickly can the security company respond to emergencies? You want a company that can act swiftly in case of a security breach or alarm.

8. Technology: What kind of security technology does the company use? From CCTV cameras to access control systems, ensure they utilize the latest tools to keep your business safe.

9. Communication: How effectively does the security company communicate with their clients? Clear and prompt communication is vital in security situations.

10. Cost: Lastly, consider the cost of the security services. Compare quotes from different companies and make sure you’re getting the best value for your investment.

Choosing the right security company is a critical decision for any business. By considering these 10 factors, you can make an informed choice and find a company that will keep your business secure. Remember, you have the power to protect what matters most to you.

When it comes to choosing a company to work with, what qualities do you consider important? What kind of questions should you ask to make the right decision? And how can you tell one company apart from another?

I reached out to Greg Kuhn, the founder and CEO of Omega Protective Services, for some insight on this matter. He offered six topics to think about, each presented as a question:

Questions to Ask Before Hiring Security Guards

Is the Company Local or a National Chain?

Kuhn recommended going for a local security company, preferably one that’s also a small business.

A small business will be able to serve you better than a national security firm, he explained. To bigger companies, you’re just one of many. But a smaller agency will pay more attention and treat you better. You’ll even have the boss’s phone number instead of being directed to a call center.

How Does the Company Prioritize Customer Service?

When it comes to choosing a company, I look for one that values customer service above everything else, according to Kuhn.

Of course, security is essential, but a company’s commitment to customer service should be a top priority, he explained. If you come across a company that doesn’t prioritize this, it’s best not to hire them.

Is Security the Company’s Main Focus?

If you want to know if a company is solely focused on security or if they offer other services like cleaning, parking, or landscaping, Kuhn suggests that you do some investigating. He recommends hiring a specialized agency that focuses on the specific type of security you need.

For example, if you’re organizing an event, look for an event security company, he advises. If you require armed bodyguards, find a firm that specializes in that. And if you need warehouse security, go for a company with extensive experience in that area.

Do They Have Different Uniforms to Choose From?

I asked, Does the security company you’re thinking about offer a variety of uniforms for different occasions?

They mentioned options like police-style uniforms, polo shirts, t-shirts, suit and tie, and plain clothes.

If the company only provides one uniform, like the police-style with shoulder patches and black striped pants, for example, you should keep searching, unless that’s exactly what you need.

What’s Their Reputation Like?

Google makes it easy to find out about a company’s reputation (complaints are usually the first things that come up), but don’t rely solely on keyword searches. Take a look at ratings and reviews on sites like Yelp, and check their presence on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter. You should also look up the company’s rating on the Better Business Bureau website.

According to Kuhn, it’s important to find out how the employees at the agency feel about working there.

Figuring that out may be challenging, he said, but by meeting with representatives from the company, you can get a sense of their attitude.

Will the Company Accommodate Your Needs?

Will the company be willing to work with your schedule, especially if it involves varying hours? Kuhn asked. If they’re not willing to accommodate you, they’re not really interested in your business.

He also suggested asking if the agency can provide guards on a short-term basis, such as during the holidays, or if they require a long-term contract. The more flexible they are, the better, according to Kuhn.

Other Important Factors to Consider When Hiring Security Services

In addition to the suggestions made by Kuhn, here are three other factors to consider:

Is the Company Licensed and Insured?

When selecting an agency, it’s important that they have valid state licenses and proof of insurance. Make sure to carefully examine the insurance to ensure it covers your needs adequately (the standard is one million dollars). You’ll want the insurance to include workman’s comp, auto liability, and general liability. Additionally, ask the agency to add your business as an additionally insured.

Are the Guards Well-trained?

No matter which company you are considering or what kind of service you require, it’s crucial to hire guards who are properly trained to safeguard your business. Otherwise, you take the risk of having unprepared guards who are unable to handle emergency situations or even perform basic tasks. Inquire about the type of training the company provides and if it goes beyond the state requirements. If it does, ask for specific details.

What Will It Cost?

Let me break it down for you in a simpler way:

• How often will the firm send you a bill for the services they provide? Will it be every week, every two weeks, or every month?
• Will they charge you a fixed monthly fee, an equal hourly rate for all their employees, or a different hourly rate for each employee? (If you only need occasional help, like for special events or part-time, hourly rates might be a better choice for your budget.)
• Do you have to cover the expenses for uniforms, equipment, and supplies for the employees they provide?
• Are there any extra things that the agency offers at no additional cost to you?

Of course, the most important question to ask yourself is whether or not the estimated average monthly cost fits within your budget.