Depending on the size of your business, you’ll have different needs. This depends on the physical space, as well as the number of employees. It also depends on the level of security you need. Do you have sensitive data that must be guarded against intrusion? Do you have expensive stock that could be easy to steal? Are there some security vulnerabilities around your premises that could be breached? These are the kinds of questions you must consider before seeking to hire security guards; and here are some further considerations.
Need to Know:
- How Long Has the Security Company Been Operating in the Local Area?
Generally speaking, you are better off hiring a locally-based security company than a national chain. These smaller, local companies will better serve your needs, and will provide good customer service. But you’ll also need to know how long they’ve been operating in the area, to make sure they aren’t a fly-by-night operation. If you need manned guarding in Leeds you’ll want to know how long and where in Yorkshire they currently have contracts with. Check out all the local firms, and don’t be afraid to shop around until you find the right one.
- How Many Other Services Does the Security Company Offer?
Whilst some business operators prefer to deal with one company that deals with a lot of agency services, such as cleaning, grounds maintenance, and catering, when it comes to security, you’ll want to hire a separate security firm to take care of the manned guarding. This will make your business safer, as those other firms don’t particularly focus on providing security guards. Whilst they can provide the manpower, they might not provide the correct training or indeed appropriate calibre of guards.
- What does it Cost to Employ Manned Guards?
Every business premises will have different needs, depending on the size, location, and type of business. For example, a large warehouse with hard-to-remove stock may not need a large amount of security guards so long as the premises are physically protected. Another business with many perimeter vulnerabilities will need a larger force of security guards, particularly if you need 24 hour protection. So, no need to pay too much for your manned security force, but make sure you don’t pay too little either.
Vetting security agencies is a very important part of the process, before hiring them. These are just some of the questions you should be asking before taking on a firm to look after your manned security needs. You’ll need to know how long the security company has been operating in your area, and see if they have a community presence. Make sure your local company are specialists in providing manned security guards, as this is more important than convenience with your other business needs. Finally, make sure the price is right, and this depends on the number of guards you need. A specialist, local firm should be able to provide you with the correct number of guards for your business.