Qualities of a Good Security Company

Key Takeaways

• Discover the qualities of a good security company to help you make the right hiring decision
• Learn what separates professional security services from average vendors
• Includes a full security company checklist for comparison

Why Choosing the Right Security Partner Matters

Choosing a security company isn’t just about who has the most guards. It’s about finding a trustworthy, compliant, and responsive partner that protects your people, property, and reputation.

According to Statista, the private security services market is expected to reach $52.7 billion USD in North America by the end of 2025. The need for professional security services has surged due to rising workplace threats, vandalism, and retail theft across Canada and the United States.

But how do you know if a security firm is reliable?

Let’s explore the top 10 qualities of a good security company so you can feel confident in your decision.

Choosing a security company is a big decision that affects the safety of your property, employees, and customers. With many security guard companies out there, it’s important to know what makes a good one stand out. This guide will help you understand the key qualities to look for in a good security company.

1. Experience and Expertise

One of the main qualities of a good security company is experience. Companies with a lot of experience are better at handling different security situations.

Why Experience Matters

An experienced security company knows how to deal with various security challenges. They can anticipate problems and create effective solutions. Their expertise allows them to offer security guard services that fit your specific needs.

Specialized Skills

Good security companies often specialize in different areas like commercial, residential, industrial, and event security. This means they can provide security services that are specifically designed for the environment they are protecting.

The best security companies have years of experience in the field, handling everything from mall patrols to large event security.

A provider with 5–10+ years in operation will better understand:

• Sector-specific threats (e.g., retail vs. industrial)
• Scheduling complexities
• Equipment and technology use

What to ask:

• Do you have experience in our industry?
• Can you provide client references?

Tip: Look for companies that specialize in your environment: corporate, educational, healthcare, or public spaces.

2. Professionalism and Reliability

Professionalism and reliability are crucial for any good security company. Security personnel should always act professionally and provide a sense of safety.

• Professional Behavior

A good security company ensures that its guards are well-trained in professional behavior. This includes looking neat, being on time, and treating people respectfully. Professionalism also means following the company’s rules and ethical standards.

• Being Reliable

Reliability means being dependable and trustworthy. A good security company provides consistent services, making sure that security personnel are always present and attentive. They also have plans in place to handle emergencies and unexpected situations effectively.

Any company can wear a badge. But real safety comes from professionally trained guards with the ability to assess risks, de-escalate conflict, and act appropriately under pressure.

Look for:

• First aid and CPR certification
• Conflict resolution and emergency response training
• Professional attire and behavior

Some states and provinces require continuing education for active-duty guards—ask about ongoing training programs.

3. Advanced Technology and Equipment

In today’s world, technology plays a big role in security. A good security company uses advanced technology and equipment to provide better protection.

The best companies don’t just offer boots on the ground—they back it up with real-time monitoring and digital reporting.

Features of a professional security services provider include:

• GPS patrol tracking
• Guard tour monitoring apps
• Incident reporting systems
• Geofencing and route alerts
• Digital shift logs and scheduling

Tools like Novagems help guard supervisors ensure accountability, minimize no-shows, and monitor performance.

• Using Technology

Top security guard companies use modern technology like surveillance cameras, access control systems, and alarm systems to enhance their services. These technologies help monitor and respond to security threats more effectively.

• Up-to-Date Equipment

A good security company makes sure that their security guards have the latest tools and equipment needed to do their jobs well. This includes communication devices, safety gear, and monitoring systems.

4. Comprehensive Training Programs

Training is essential for security personnel to do their jobs effectively. A good security company invests in thorough training programs for their guards.

• Security Training

Effective security training covers many topics, including conflict resolution, emergency response, first aid, and legal issues. Well-trained security guards are better prepared to handle various situations and provide high-quality security guard services.

• Ongoing Training

A good security company emphasizes ongoing training to keep their guards updated with the latest security techniques and practices. This continuous education ensures that security personnel can adapt to new threats and challenges.

A good firm won’t just take the job—they’ll assess the site first and recommend the best security plan.

A proper site inspection will identify:

• Blind spots or high-risk zones
• Foot traffic analysis
• Entry/exit vulnerabilities
• Equipment positioning (e.g., CCTV, access control)

Look for firms that offer a free initial risk audit as part of their proposal.

5. Excellent Customer Service

Customer service is a key part of a security company’s operations. Good security companies prioritize customer satisfaction and work hard to meet their clients’ needs.

• Focusing on Clients

A good security company listens to its clients and tailors its services to meet their specific requirements. They maintain open communication and provide regular updates on security matters.

• Quick Response

Excellent customer service involves responding quickly to client inquiries and concerns. A good security company has a dedicated customer service team available 24/7 to address any issues that may arise.

Strong security relies on fast, clear communication between clients, dispatch, and field officers.

Qualities to expect:

• 24/7 support
• Designated account manager
• Real-time issue resolution
• Prompt reporting and documentation

Pro Tip: A company that doesn’t respond quickly during sales likely won’t during emergencies either.

6. Strong Communication Skills

Good communication is essential for smooth security operations. A good security company values strong communication skills within the organization and with clients.

• Internal Communication

Strong internal communication ensures that all team members are on the same page. A good security company uses efficient communication systems to relay information quickly and accurately.

• Client Communication

A good security company maintains clear and transparent communication with clients. This includes providing regular reports, updates on security activities, and being available for any questions or concerns.

7. Customizable Security Solutions

Every client has unique security needs. A good security company offers customizable security solutions to address these specific requirements. Avoid companies that use a one-size-fits-all approach. Your business is unique, and your security should be too.

Ask about:

• Custom scheduling options
• Industry-specific strategies
• Communication protocols
• Guard-post instructions

Customization is a key trait of the best security company traits.

• Tailored Services

Good security companies assess the specific needs of each client and develop a customized security plan. This approach ensures that clients receive the most effective security solutions for their particular situation.

• Flexibility

A good security company is flexible and can adapt to changes in the client’s security needs. They are willing to adjust their services to provide the best possible protection.

8. Positive Client Reviews and Testimonials

Client reviews and testimonials are valuable indicators of a security company’s performance. A good security company has a history of positive feedback from satisfied clients.

A major quality of a good security company is what others say about them. Online reviews and reputation give insight into service quality, guard behavior, and reliability.

Check platforms like:

• Google Business
• Yelp
• Better Business Bureau (BBB)
• Trustpilot (if applicable)

Also request:

• Client references
• Case studies or testimonials

According to BrightLocal, 92% of B2B buyers read online reviews before hiring service-based companies.

Why Reviews Matter

Reading client reviews and testimonials gives you insight into the quality of services provided by the security company. Positive reviews indicate that the company has a good reputation and a history of meeting client expectations.

• Building Trust

A good security company is transparent about their client feedback and uses it to build trust with potential clients. They are proud to showcase their successful projects and satisfied customers.

• Licensing and Certifications

Licensing and certifications are crucial indicators of a security company’s legitimacy and professionalism. A good security company holds all necessary licenses and certifications.

9. Security Guard License

Ensure that the security company and its guards have the required security guard license. This license indicates that they have met the necessary training and regulatory requirements to provide security services.

• Industry Certifications

Industry certifications demonstrate a security company’s commitment to maintaining high standards. Look for certifications from reputable organizations that validate the company’s expertise and professionalism.

One of the first signs of legitimacy is proper licensing and compliance. A licensed security guard company follows regional laws and safety regulations. After a vendor comes to decide on how to choose a security company, this is the first thing they look for.

🇺🇸 USA:

• Must hold state-level licenses (e.g., California BSIS, Texas DPS)
• Armed guards require additional permits and training

🇨🇦 Canada:

• Requires provincial registration (e.g., Alberta Security Programs, Ontario Ministry of Solicitor General)
• Compliance with WHMIS, PIPEDA, and occupational health laws

Also ask for:

• Liability insurance
• Workers’ compensation coverage
• Guard certification

This should be at the top of your security company checklist.

Conclusion

Choosing the right security company involves looking for these key qualities: experience, professionalism, advanced technology, comprehensive training, excellent customer service, strong communication, customizable solutions, positive client reviews, and proper licensing. By focusing on these qualities, you can find a reliable and professional security company that meets your specific needs. Whether you are looking for security guard companies, or security guard services, or need security training, these qualities will help you make an informed decision and ensure the safety and security of your property.

Selecting a security company is a critical decision that impacts your safety and peace of mind. By asking the right questions and considering these essential qualities, you can find a security provider that delivers exceptional service and reliable protection.