Selecting a Security Services Provider? Consider 6 Primary Factors

Choosing the right security officer services provider is a decision that will significantly affect the safety and security of your organization. It is important to choose a provider committed to the success of your security program and your unique organizational culture. The primary factors to consider when choosing a security officer services provider include the following: 

1. Leadership – A successful security officer services relationship starts with strong leadership at all levels. Are the security officers on-site engaged and ready to go the extra mile to ensure the safety and security of your organization? Are they supported by local leaders who understand your objectives and can put the right people and programs in place to meet them?

2. Security Expertise – Specify the general and specialized skills required of the security officers as well as the level of quality and responsiveness desired. Basic criteria include professionalism, demeanor, appearance and customer service skills.

3. Staffing Resources – Effective staffing requires that every post is staffed for every shift. Your provider needs to possess the recruiting resources to hire, train and cross-train all post commitments.

4. Communication – Open communication enables you and the contracted security firm to respond to the changing security landscape quickly. Define when you will meet to assess changing risk situations, and schedule status meetings and business reviews.

5. Quality – Quality service is defined by the effectiveness, training, professional image and demeanor of a company’s security officers and is a reflection of your program and organization. These security officers represent your brand and values every day. 

6. Value – Transparency is key for an apples-to-apples comparison of costs. Specifying security officer wages in the RFP or setting a sample wage will allow for an accurate comparison between contractors and help determine value.

By considering these fundamental elements, your organization will be able to select the right security officer services provider for your security program. Read more about selecting a security partner in our Guide to Contracting.

What other factors do you consider when selecting a services provider?

  About the Author
  Mike Smidt is the Northwest Region President for Allied Universal.