Screening and Hiring Best Practices
When it comes to protecting your business assets, hiring the right security team is a critical step. Security officers serve as the first line of defense for your employees, property, and operations, making it essential to choose a provider with rigorous hiring standards. Here’s what to look for when evaluating a security team’s screening and hiring practices:
- Comprehensive Background Checks
A trustworthy security provider conducts thorough background checks, including police records verification, personal history reviews, and residence verification. These steps ensure that officers have the integrity and character necessary for the responsibility of safeguarding your business.
- Job-Specific Performance Matching
Each facility has unique needs, so job descriptions should be tailored to match the skills and expertise required for each post. Look for a security team that collaborates with you to design performance-matched roles that fully address your security requirements.
- Rigorous Screening Process
Top-tier providers use a centralized onboarding system for consistency and compliance. At Sizemore, for example, this includes a Health and Fitness Questionnaire, pre-employment drug screening, and Talent Quest Assessments to evaluate candidates’ capabilities and fit.
- Training and Certification Standards
Officers should receive extensive training before their first assignment, including site-specific protocols and ongoing education to keep them up to date. Certifications in defensive tactics, emergency response, and de-escalation techniques are indicators of a well-trained team.
- Community-Focused Recruitment
Hiring locally is a hallmark of a security provider that values community engagement. Local officers are familiar with the area, providing an added layer of insight and responsiveness.
- Commitment to Employee Retention
A low turnover rate often indicates that the provider treats their employees well, which translates to better service. Look for benefits like paid vacation, health insurance, retirement plans, and ongoing training programs that encourage long-term commitment from their team.
Hiring a security team is about more than just filling posts—it’s about creating a partnership with a provider that prioritizes your safety, values their employees, and operates with professionalism. By focusing on these hiring and screening best practices, you can ensure your business assets are in capable hands.
