Business owners and managers face an endless list of challenges. From marketing to operations, finance, and beyond, there’s always something new to learn.
With all the pressure to succeed, it’s easy to overlook one of the most important parts of your business: Security. But choosing the wrong business security company could cost you time, money, and valuable security resources.
Fortunately, the right security company will be there from the very beginning to help you address your needs. Here’s what you need to know before you hire a security company.
Know What You’re Looking For
The first step to finding the right security company is to be clear on what you want. If you’re not sure where to start, this questionnaire can help you identify your needs and set appropriate expectations.
● Do you need 24/7 security? If so, what level of coverage do you need?
● Do you need full-time security coverage, or can you fill that requirement with on-call or rotational guards?
● What are your budget constraints? How much do you want to spend?
● What type of coverage are you looking for? Police? Civil authorities? Surety?
● What is your risk assessment? What is your goal?
Look for Expertise
When it comes to security, hiring a firm with a long history of providing quality service is a smart move. Many security companies have come a long way since the days of guarding parking garages and sports stadiums.
These days, you can find firms with a long history of success in a wide range of security services. However, be sure they’re equipped to handle your specific needs.
Find a Company with a Long-Term Commitment
A long-term relationship is a key to any successful business partnership. You want to make sure the security company you hire is there for the long term. After all, who wants to hire a security guard or patrol service every year or two?
Instead, look for a provider that provides a service you can trust to protect your business year-round.
Ask About Service Level Agreements
From day one, you should know the services your security company will provide and the expected level of service. Discuss your needs with the providers you’re considering, and make sure they understand your expectations. Having a written agreement about service level is a good starting point.
Write down what service level you’re both expecting, and be sure to include both emergency and non-emergency situations. This will help you hold the security company accountable if something doesn’t meet expectations.
Don’t Be afraid to Try New Things
When you’re choosing a security company, you want to be very selective. After all, you never know what new ideas or techniques might improve the service you receive.
Fortunately, there are plenty of companies that are always looking to expand their skill set. If you’re interested in learning more new techniques, don’t be afraid to ask around or make a few calls. There are plenty of security companies who are more than willing to discuss their services and techniques with you.
Hire a Company That Will Listen to You
Hiring the right security company is like hiring an assistant. You can’t just hire the first person who comes along and offers to help. You have to be specific about your needs, and send the right signals to find the best fit.
When you hire a security company, you’re putting your trust in that company to protect your business. You need to make sure they get the opportunity to prove themselves worthy of that trust. That means you need to provide them with the information they need and give them the opportunity to prove themselves worthy of your contract.
