Hiring the right security company will make the difference between being able to focus on the core business and having to deal with security issues all the time. The right security company will have the necessary general liability and worker's compensation insurance coverage’s, a proven model of supervision, the right electronic equipment to supervise their guards and most importantly experienced security consultants that will devise a security plan, customize post orders and train security officers.
I have provided security consultations to wholesale businesses where hiring the right security company made the difference between going bankrupt and being extremely profitable. Employee theft was so rampant that the company, although everything else including revenue and profits in the business model was perfect, was loosing money. After a new security company was hired, the right procedures were put in place and almost immediately the company resumed being profitable.
It is easy to determine if a company has the legally mandated insurance coverage. Before hiring a company the client's representative should review the insurance additional insured certificates. If you the client wants to be especially thorough they should contact the security company's insurance broker ensuring that the policies are in effect. They can also ask the broker to send them a notice when the policy lapses or is cancelled. Some security companies may buy insurance and cancel it after obtaining the contract with the client.
Providing onsite security is all about supervision and being able to keep security officers accountable. Only a few security guards will perform well without effective supervision. A proven model of supervision will include a good mix of electronic supervision and field supervisors visiting the site. Electronic equipment includes the detex system, which creates a report of where and when the security officer patrolled during his shift. That provides peace of mind to clients, because they will know that the guard is actually present and patrolling. Multiple random visits by supervisors each shift will ensure that the officer is alert, well groomed, professional and adhering to post orders. It also gives the security guard the chance to ask questions and the supervisor the opportunity to provide continuing on the job training.
Security consultants are the face of the security company and the liaison between security provider and client. Every customer should meet with their consultant before hiring a security company. That representative will devise the security plan, write post orders and train the security guards and supervisors that will cover the client's property. One should know that the security consultant is experienced, possesses the necessary communication skills and that he understands the present challenges the hiring business is facing. Following all the steps and understanding them will help a business manager to make the right decision the first time. It will make the difference between well invested money providing peace of mind and buying additional problems for good money.
Zindadil Shokory is a Sr. Security Consultant for Vigilant Protection Group in Los Angeles. He has decades of experience in the private security company. In his many years he worked as a fire watch security guards for clients ranging from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies.