How Hiring Security Personnel Can Help Secure Your Store
Running a business can be quite taxing on the mind and body, not to mention one’s finances. As a result, many business owners place their security needs on the backburner as they run day-to-day operations.
However, hiring security personnel can help secure your store: their very presence will drastically reduce the risk of theft or a violent assault. They provide both employees and customers with peace of mind and can assist with emergency situations. They can also greet customers and help improve the overall customer service experience.
Here, we will focus on the benefits of hiring security personnel for your business.
Roles and Responsibilities of Security Personnel in a Retail Store
It is important to remain alert at all times. Danger may be around the corner, so guards must be sharp and ready to respond at a moment’s notice as they are responsible for ensuring the safety of your employees. They are trained to handle virtually any emergency that may occur and are trained in CPR and arm-to-arm combat, and some have also received extensive weapons training.
Many store owners worry that they will become the victim of shoplifting in due time. Fortunately, security personnel are trained to apprehend kleptomaniacs and other troublemakers. Security personnel are also responsible for observing and reporting any dangerous, hazardous, or suspicious activities or obstacles.
Factors to Consider Before Hiring Security Personnel
Guards must be punctual to prove that they are consummate professionals. They must also have extensive experience in order to reduce the risk of theft and other casualties.
Interpersonal skills are of paramount importance. You want your hired guards to be intimidating to criminals, but also personable and approachable so that your customers feel comfortable shopping at your store.
Background checks are a must, as some guards may have a felonious past that may interfere with their ability to work in a safe, ethical, and efficient manner. You should also look into the training that they have received. Do they have a police or military background? Are they college-educated? What programs have they completed, and what certifications do they possess?
Cost is another consideration. The security guards that you hire should charge an amount that fits within your budget.
Benefits of Hiring Security Personnel
Hiring security personnel will help your store provide better customer service to your patrons. They will feel more comfortable shopping, as they will know that someone with security expertise will be able to protect them should something bad happen.
They can also greet customers and help answer questions that customers may have. Guards can be hired on a rotational basis so that your store will be protected 24 hours a day, 7 days a week if needed. Their very presence will serve as a deterrent for shoplifters, and even violent criminals may be hesitant to attack a store if they notice a marked security presence.
Security guards are trained to handle a wide array of emergencies, including accidents, fire hazards, and certain medical issues. They may be able to deescalate a precarious situation or help someone who is ill or injured while waiting for the paramedics to arrive on the scene. Thus, security guards can help provide peace of mind for store owners, their workers, and their customers alike.
Taking a Proactive Approach to Crime
Crime rates have skyrocketed in many parts of the world due to the global pandemic. Many police and medical departments are overburdened with calls, victims, and patients.
Hiring security personnel can help police officers, paramedics and doctors, and firefighters handle their increasingly heavy workloads. They will not only deter thieves, violent criminals, squatters, vandals, and arsonists from committing crimes but will also help improve the customer service that you provide.
They will promote and foster a safe and cordial work environment as well, and will likely be the first to respond in the event of an emergency. Trained to be sharp, alert, and cautious at all times, today’s security guards can handle virtually any situation that they may come across.
The pandemic has necessitated the need for additional training in deescalating tense situations and keeping customers and workers safe. For instance, guards have been trained to ensure that employees and customers wash their hands, wear the proper facemasks, and follow government-mandated social distancing protocols while working or shopping.
However, not all security companies are the same. You should perform the necessary due diligence in order to find a reputable company that offers services that are within your budget. While times are tough, crime never takes a break. Taking a proactive approach to your security needs may help save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
This article has been published in accordance with Socialnomics’ disclosure policy.
