Mall and retail property managers face constant pressure to maintain their facility's security while effectively managing costs. They also need to manage constant visitor traffic, monitor access to the building, maintain standards, all while protecting employees.

To effectively handle all of these important issues, more and more property managers are opting to outsource their physical security services. Yet, mall and retail property managers too often encounter a series of misconceptions that challenge their perspective of contract security services. This post focuses on shining light on the truth concerning contract security services.

Our Organizational Culture Won’t Gel With Security Culture

The stark reality is that the most efficient security partnerships are founded on a base of shared values. When an organization and security provider share a common mission, it’s easier for the security provider to become a part of the team. A strong security leadership team can ensure that the contract team understands, supports and is integrated with your organization’s culture.

Obviously, recruiting the right officers is crucial, as is on-the-job training and the nuanced understanding that each organization’s environment is unique and should be treated as such.

Anyone Can Become A Security Officer

Though many people assume that anyone can become a security officer, the hiring process is rigorous and requires a balanced perspective and well-informed mind to pass. In addition, security officers must pass a background check and undergo comprehensive training before even considering entering service.

Security officers at USI are required to go through additional training and certification to learn the proper methods to protect an organization, and are required to become re-certified on an on-basis. This makes it much easier to ensure that private officers are always kept up-to-date on the latest security practices, ensuring that each officer is thoroughly and highly qualified to provide the security and protection your organization needs.

Contract Security Costs Too Much And Is Riddled With Hidden Costs

While it may come as a shock, contract security is more cost effective than you may expect. Take time to gather and review all of the costs associated with an in-house security program, which include more than just wages, to determine your true costs for in-house security efforts.

With a reputable security provider, you won’t have to worry about hidden costs, as all of the costs are outlined in the initial agreement. Plus, contract security providers can assist an organization in understanding how their security budget is being spent. In addition, contract security providers can alleviate many of the costs and management challenges related to the development of training programs, payroll, background screening, certifications, licensing and training compliance.

Basically, you have an opportunity to save money by opting for contract security services, as you’re paying for expertise, which in turn saves time. 

Contract Security Providers Will Use Anyone To Fill Open Positions

Security officers must be attuned to the environment they are working within. Keep in mind that contract security officers are recruited and selected based on their fit for a particular environment. And, they're placed in a position based on their skill's and the property's specifications. contract security providers typically have an established talent pipeline , allowing contract companies to hire for nuanced positions, assessing the skills and desired work environment of each candidate and matching those that quality to positions where they will excel.

United Security Incorporated | Security Officer Staffing

Although it’s tempting to hire security officers as quickly as possible to protect your property, ultimately it will cost you more than it’s worth in the long term. Hiring unqualified security officers can damage your company’s reputation and financial livelihood, compromising security. It’s best to take your time and develop a hiring process that will help you get the high quality security officers that you need. In the end it is the only way to ensure your company’s long-term success.

Take a look at our “Security Officer Checklist” to ensure that you find the right officers to meet your building’s complex needs.