You’ve decided you want to hire a professional security firm but are not sure where to start. With many companies in existence, how do you find the right one for your needs? While there are a number of variables that may play a role in your decision, there are also some basic things that you should evaluate. Here are six things to look for in a professional security firm.
1. Experience
One of the most important things you want to evaluate in your search for private security is experience. Organisations that have a depth of experience in terms of security will give you greater confidence that they will be able to get the job done and meet your expectations.
Experience is also important because it shows that a professional security firm has been successful enough to stay in business. A good way to assess experience is to look at the breadth of jobs carried out, the number of clients they have previously worked with, and testimonials from existing clients.
2. Services Offered
One thing particularly important to consider when looking for a professional security firm is the various services that they do, and do not, offer. While this may seem like common sense, one mistake many people make is spending time reviewing firms without first checking to ensure they offer the services needed. This can lead to wasting time evaluating firms that simply don’t provide what you want.
The reality is that there are some private security companies that only provide one or two specialised services while there are others, such as Spartacus Security that provide more comprehensive services such as in-house security, event security, door supervision, and manned guarding. One of the first things you should check is whether a company offers the services that you need.
3. Trained & Licensed Staff
When it comes to security professionals, training makes all the difference in the world. You want to ensure that the staff working your events or providing security for your business are able to respond quickly and appropriately when needed. Be sure to ask the professional security firms that you are considering about the training and qualifications of their staff. This is a key part of the vetting process.
Additionally, it is imperative that private security staff be licensed. Be sure to check that a security firm’s staff have the proper accreditations required by law. A firm should be more than happy to confirm their status for you.
4. Local Firm
While it may be tempting to select a large, national security firm, the reality is that these typically are unable to provide highly customised services. They also do not necessarily have the local knowledge necessary to meet all of your needs.
When looking to hire a professional security firm in the Greater London area, it is important to opt for a local company. Local organisations will have more intimate knowledge and more experience dealing with the types of threats that you may encounter. They will also be able to provide a more personal, bespoke service.
5. Focus
When opting for a private security firm, you want to ensure that you go for a company that primarily deals with security services. There are some firms that offer security in combination with other types of unrelated services. These organisations are more likely to be generalists and tend to have less specialised experience in security practices.
By opting for a professional security firm that only deals in security, you are more likely to find high calibre staff that are suited for dealing with a wide array of situations. These companies will also tend to stay up to date on security trends and incorporate them into their practice.
6. Affordability
Cost is certainly a factor that should be considered when looking to hire private security. However, many people make the mistake of seeking the lowest cost option available. In many cases, this will result in a quality of service that does not meet your needs and leaves you frustrated.
Instead, it is recommended to first narrow your list to firms that you are pleased with and then use cost as one of several factors to make a final decision. You don’t at all need to go with the highest priced security firm; however, you definitely want to ensure that you avoid the cheapest as you typically get what you pay for.
Spartacus Security Can Meet Your Needs
Spartacus Security is a local, London-based private security firm that is ready to meet your needs. Whether you are looking for security dog teams to patrol a site, highly trained security staff to protect your special event, an in-house security detail for your corporate offices, body-guarding services, or something more bespoke, we are happy to chat with you about how we can fulfill your needs.
Learn more about our services and contact us today with any questions.
