Photo by Guilherme Bustamante on Unsplash
Running a business is not a solo endeavor.
If you’re in the retail or hospitality industry, you hire people to stock merchandise and assist customers. The job description is clear, and the people you hire are great at fulfilling the duties and obligations as defined by their role.
However, with things like smash-and-grab theft becoming more common, or in the event someone suffers from a medical issue on your premises, the staff you hire should not be expected to render aid, or confront criminal behavior midway through a theft.
Here’s where security guards enter the picture.
They’re there to ensure the safety of employees and patrons alike. They keep a watchful eye on everything, giving you peace of mind, and your business unparalleled protection.
Here are some of the main reasons every business needs a security guard.
Security Guards Deter Criminals and Disruptive Behavior
This is obvious… and also incredibly important. The presence of a security guard is a huge turn off to criminals. Most are looking for a quick and easy way to break the law and when they spot a security guard onsite, they move on.
In addition to deterring criminals, security guards are trained to confront and eject drunk or disorderly individuals, people on drugs, and those suffering from major mental health issues.
Professional security guards are well-versed in de-escalation tactics, and are able to diffuse potentially hostile situations—notifying the appropriate authorities when necessary—keeping both staff and customers safe.
Security Guards are Trained to Respond in Emergencies
Security guards are trained to assist in a myriad of crisis and emergency situations.
From rendering first aid to a person who suddenly finds themselves in the midst of a medical emergency, to helping people evacuate during a fire or earthquake.
These professionals are ready to step in and take control of the scene until authorities arrive.
Security Guards Create a Sense of Safety
Seeing a security guard on premises provides both customers and employees with a sense of safety and ease, knowing there’s a professional onsite ready to intervene should a conflict or other dangerous situation transpire.
In addition, a security guard can assist customers with directions and act as a point of contact for visitors.
Security Guards are a Cost Effective Business Solution
In some cases, hiring a security guard makes more sense financially than installing a highly sophisticated surveillance system.
Additionally, when you factor in financial loss due to theft and other costly incidents and losses—or even lack of business because customers feel unsafe on premises—hiring a professional security guard may end up saving you money in the long run.
From personal bodyguards to having a trained professional present at your business. Security guards are trained to maintain vigil and protection for every location and situation.
Check out Security Explorer to find out exactly who you need to hire to keep your business safe.
Security Guards Improve Workplace Productivity and Image
When employees feel safe and are able to focus on doing their jobs without worrying about the potential of threats, theft, and harassment, it increases productivity and morale.
Customers are more inclined to visit—and return—when they sense that their well-being is a priority.
Security guards enhance brand image, and customers appreciate knowing that their safety is a valued component of their overall experience.
Security Guards Provide Top-Notch Surveillance and Asset Protection
A security guard is able to spot and report suspicious behavior. They are familiar with the ins and outs that are a customary part of day-to-day business, and have a firm grasp on what to look out for.
After hours, they can safeguard valuables and maintain a watchful vigil over the property. If an alarm was to go off, or they spot someone trespassing or breaking and entering, they are able to confront it immediately.
Security guards monitor who has access to what, and deter or confront unauthorized access.
Some businesses choose to pair security guards with video surveillance, allowing them to keep an eye out over larger swaths of the property.
Security Guards Provide Detailed Documentation
Professional security guards maintain daily work logs which can be shared with law enforcement when building a case. If an incident were to occur, security guards are trained to compose detailed incident reports.
This can be incredibly helpful when filing insurance claims or in the case of legal proceedings.
Security Guards are Flexible and Supportive
A professional security guard is there to support you and your business, in whatever way you need. If the security needs of the business change, they are able to quickly and seamlessly adjust to meet current needs.
Security guards are an invaluable resource that can provide all sorts of intel based on overheard conversations from customers, day to day observations, and more.
Conclusion:
The peace of mind security guards bring cannot be overstated. In complex and challenging situations having a professional on hand who’s trained to assist—no matter what—is invaluable.
For everyone in business, the message is clear: the benefits of hiring a security guard are staggering, and the pros far outweigh the cons.
