Need to Hire Security? Planning an RFP?

At Secure Shield Security, we understand selecting the right security partner is a crucial
decision. Let us help you develop a comprehensive security program tailored to your unique
challenges, requirements, and budget.

10 Essential Questions When Choosing Your Security Partner

Making the wrong choice in security services can be costly and dangerous. We’ve compiled
crucial questions often overlooked during the selection process. Understanding these factors
before making your decision can save you significant time, resources, and potential security
risks.

What’s Their True Cost Structure?

Detailed breakdown of security officer pay rates: Shows the quality of personnel you can expect. Higher pay rates typically attract more qualified and experienced officers, leading to better service delivery. Includes base pay, overtime rates, and any performance bonuses.
Clear markup structures and administrative costs: Reveals how the company allocates resources between direct service costs and overhead. A transparent markup structure shows how much goes toward management, administration, and company profit. Reasonable markups typically range from 30-50% depending on services provided.
Training investment per officer: The amount invested in each officer’s training directly correlates to their performance quality. Includes initial training, ongoing education, specialized certifications, and professional development programs.
Equipment and technology allocations: Investment in uniforms, communication devices, monitoring equipment, and other necessary tools. Modern security requires proper equipment, and adequate allocation shows commitment to service quality.
Supervisory tier compensation: Well-paid supervisors are more likely to be experienced and committed to excellence. Indicates the quality of oversight you’ll receive. 

Are They Transparent About Their Track Record?

Current client references: Active clients provide insight into current service quality, responsiveness, and reliability. Look for references in similar industries or with similar security needs.
Previous contract references, including terminated ones: Past clients, especially those who terminated services, offer valuable perspective on potential issues and how the company handles challenges.
Detailed explanations of contract terminations: Understanding why contracts ended helps assess the company’s honesty and ability to learn from past experiences. Look for transparency in discussing both successes and failures.
Performance metrics and client retention rates: Quantifiable data about service quality, including response times, incident handling, and long-term client relationships. High retention rates indicate consistent service quality.
Case studies of successful long-term partnerships: Detailed examples of how the company has solved specific security challenges and maintained successful client relationships over time.

What Are Their Training Standards?

Minimum training requirements: Basic training that meets or exceeds industry standards and legal requirements. Includes security fundamentals, legal aspects, and basic emergency response.
Additional certification programs: Specialized training beyond basic requirements, such as first aid, CPR, conflict resolution, or industry-specific certifications.
Site-specific training hours: Training tailored to your specific facility, including layout, procedures, emergency protocols, and unique requirements.
Ongoing professional development: Continuous learning programs to keep officers updated on new security threats, technologies, and best practices.
Specialized industry training: Training specific to different sectors (healthcare, retail, corporate, etc.) ensuring officers understand unique industry challenges.

How Robust is Their Management Structure?

Clear organizational structure: Well-defined reporting lines and responsibilities, ensuring accountability and efficient communication at all levels.
24/7 management availability: Round-the-clock access to management support for emergencies or urgent issues, including backup systems and escalation procedures.
Regular site inspections: Scheduled and surprise visits by management to ensure service quality and compliance with procedures.
Quality assurance programs: Systematic processes to monitor and improve service delivery, including regular audits and performance reviews.
Emergency response protocols: Clear procedures for handling various emergency situations, including communication chains and resource allocation.

Do They Own Their Full Service Offering?

In-house capabilities: Services directly provided by the company rather than outsourced, ensuring better quality control and accountability.
Subcontractor relationships: Clear information about any services provided by third parties, including their qualifications and oversight.
Integration of services: How different security services work together seamlessly to provide comprehensive protection.
Quality control measures: Systems for maintaining consistent service quality across all service areas.
Accountability structures: Clear lines of responsibility and processes for addressing service issues.

What’s Their Leadership Engagement?

Owner participation in operations: Level of involvement from company ownership in day-to-day operations and strategic decisions.
Decision-making structure: How quickly and effectively decisions can be made, especially in critical situations.
Response time to issues: Standard response times for various types of issues and emergencies.
Local management authority: Authority given to local managers to make decisions and resolve issues without lengthy approval processes.
Client relationship management: Systems for maintaining regular communication and addressing client needs.

How Strong is Their Infrastructure?

HR department capabilities: Resources dedicated to recruitment, screening, and employee management.
Scheduling systems: Technology and processes used to ensure proper staffing and coverage.
Training facilities: Physical and virtual resources available for officer training and development.
Technology integration: Use of modern security technology and systems to enhance service delivery.
Administrative support: Back-office capabilities supporting field operations.

How Do They Ensure Officer Safety?

Officer check-in procedures: Systems for monitoring officer location and status during shifts.
Lone worker protection: Special procedures and equipment for officers working alone.
Emergency response systems: Protocols and equipment for officer emergencies.
Safety training programs: Specific training focused on officer safety and risk management.
Incident reporting protocols: Systems for documenting and analyzing security incidents.

Can They Provide Integrated Solutions?

Multiple service capabilities: Range of security services available to create comprehensive protection.
Technology integration: Ability to incorporate various security technologies into service delivery.
Cost-effective alternatives: Creative solutions to meet security needs within budget constraints.
Customized solutions: Ability to tailor services to specific client needs.
Innovation in service delivery: Use of new approaches and technologies to improve security effectiveness.

What’s Their Industry Leadership Position?

Industry certifications: Professional certifications and accreditations held by the company and staff.
Professional memberships: Participation in industry associations and professional organizations.
Innovation contributions: Company’s role in advancing industry practices and technologies.
Industry awards: Recognition received for service excellence and innovation.
Thought leadership: Contributions to industry knowledge and best practices through publications, presentations, or research.

Expert Tip:

Never finalize a security contract without:

An in-person office tour: See their operations firsthand
Comprehensive presentation: Understanding their full capabilities
Meeting key management personnel: Assess their expertise and commitment
Reviewing operational facilities: Evaluate their infrastructure
Understanding their technology capabilities: Ensure modern and effective solutions