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Do you know who you are partnering with when you select a security services provider? The price in the proposal and the promised services are only the start. You need to dig much deeper to uncover a suitable partner to meet your current and future security needs.
Security officer services is a much more complex decision than purchasing a product or even selecting temporary personnel who will provide a service and then leave your property. A quality security team has a vested interest in your success, stands by you during emergencies and integrates with your culture – becoming a seamless part of your operations and a caring resource that you and your teams can depend on. You need to learn enough to select a provider that you will be proud to align with. To say this must be a careful and well-informed decision is an understatement.
So, what should you look for when selecting a security services provider? While the list of evaluation points is long, breaking it down to five core areas can help. Here are just some of the points you should consider:
1. Organizational Criteria
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Financial stability and a background and values that align with your own
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Size and scope
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Experience in similar environments
2. Recruiting & Screening
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Comprehensive background checks and drug screening
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Matches candidates to job functions/requirements
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Hires former law enforcement and military
3. Uniforms, Equipment & Benefits
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Medical benefits in line with the Affordable Care Act
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Uniform style options
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401(k) with employer match
4. Training
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Industry-specific training program
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Online learning center
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Professional local training staff
5. Systems & Processes
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Automated security officer check-in
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Multiple technology solutions
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24/7 customer support center
While some of these might seem like basic requirements, you cannot afford to assume that they exist and are executed well. In-depth discussions, office visits and a comprehensive RFP process can help you align with a provider you can trust. Download our Vendor Checklist Evaluation Tool to complete a simple scoring process. The results will give you a new outlook on security.
About the Author
Jon Rodenspiel is the Vice President of National Accounts for Allied Universal.
