You’ve made the decision to hire a security guard company. Maybe you have recently experienced a security incident or you have increased concerns over incidents occurring in your area. No matter the reason, you have another important decision to make.

Choosing the right security guard company can be challenging. Your main concern is to hire a company that you can rely on to do their job well and with integrity. As a rapidly growing industry, security guard companies can vary in their professionalism and quality. When you choose to work with security guards, you are also working with the company that backs them. You must take the time to evaluate the company and their reputation, as well as their ability to match you with the right guards for your needs.

Considerations When Hiring a Security Guard Company
Hiring a security guard company is an important task. The wrong choice can leave you and your business vulnerable to threats and cost you a lot of money. In the initial stages of hiring, be sure to consider the following before moving forward with any one company:

Licensure: Do they carry the proper licenses for your state. Requirements vary from state to state, so be sure to do your research. While unlicensed guards may be a cheaper option, they may not have the training required to meet your needs.

Insurance: Anytime you are hiring an outside company to work on your premises, you want to be sure they carry enough insurance to protect you and your business. What happens when your guard sustains an injury while protecting your property? Or if property is damaged while they are detaining a thief?

Training: Ask how their guards are trained and what certifications they hold. You want to be sure that the guards matched with your business have skills and experience related to your unique security needs. Some examples of certifications you may need include power to arrest, baton, pepper spray, firearms, CPR and first aid.

Reputation: Be sure to find references from other customers of a similar size or industry. What was their experience? Were their guards reliable, on time and friendly? Would they hire that company again? Check review websites and the Better Business Bureau to see what their customers are saying about them.

Policies and Procedures: Find out if the management policies are in line with your security needs. What role will the supervisors play? How is communication and reporting handled? Do they use technology to improve their service? Do they provide the proper training in the use of these technologies?

Responsiveness: You want a security guard company that will answer your calls and respond to your needs in a timely fashion. If they are unresponsive when you need them, it could put your business in danger. How do they respond to you even before you are a customer? Do they make communication easy? Do they use technology to make communication easier?

Cost: The old adage is true: You pay for what you get. Don’t go with the cheapest option by default. Instead, choose a company that will customize their security solutions for your needs and offer you fair pricing for the security that you require. Also, be sure to find out what is behind their pricing. Are there hidden fees?

Off Duty Officers – Professional Security Guards Nationwide
At Off Duty Officers, we understand that choosing the right security guard company can be a difficult decision. By taking the above factors into consideration, you can save yourself a great deal of time and money by hiring the right company from the start.

If you are in need of professional, reliable security guards, choose a company with a stellar reputation. Off Duty Officers is known throughout the industry as a leader in training and technology. Contact our security specialists today to learn more about how we can protect your business.