The “Better Business Series” is a 5-blog series created for new and established security firms looking to tighten their operations, reduce overheads and deliver outstanding services to their clients. The series will explore five different ways new and existing security firms can achieve more from the security industry.
Read the series:
1. Five things to consider when starting a security company
2. Four ways to improve security business operations
Better Business Series… One – 5 things to consider when starting a security company
Lower your Expenses
When starting a new security company you need to keep costs down. While it may seem like a good idea to get all the flashy and new things to show off the brand, this is money coming straight out while you have little to no paying customers. A lean start-up is key to managing cash flow.
Consider the use of platforms such as Airtasker or Fiverr for cheaper but professionally made websites, logos and branding. Officeworks can have some pretty good deals regarding stationery, signage, etc. Find a cheaper web host – you won’t need to spend hundreds on this to start with.
Also, consider the structure your business will take as this will impact what licences you will need.
Licensing
Licensing will play a big part in setting up your security business. You need this before you can actively promote your business. This includes requiring it before you create publicly visible websites, social media accounts, etc.
Depending on your state, there will be different security licensing requirements for sole traders and businesses. You may need to seek some advice from the licensing authority or industry association to ensure you apply for the correct type of licence. You’ll find both are fairly helpful, but, maybe slow in responding. This is an important step because you need the licence before you can actively promote and deliver services, so make sure this is one of the first things you get processed.
Good things take time
It doesn’t need to be perfect, it just needs to be done. Good things take time to develop. For example, it is really easy to get bogged down in detail as you start your security company. You need the right structure, a website, and some business documents. But, you don’t need all future uniforms, cars and gadgets. Those come as the business grows. And, you can update your website, marketing and documentation as you go. Get the basics done right and then develop as you go – don’t be a perfectionist because it’ll slow you down.
Do it right from the start
Start how you wish to continue. If you start with a solid foundation then you can build upon it and will be far more stable as the business expands. This also means you should do right by your people from the start. Good staff can be hard to come by when you run a burn and turn operation. It isn’t always about numbers. Your business doesn’t get any favours advertising customer-focused security officers who then turn up late, ignore client requests and are uninitiated to the line of work the customer wants.
Set up your security SOPs early and ingrain them into the operation. Treat your customers well and supply them security officers who are diligent and understand how to escalate issues and work with stakeholders. A little investment in your reputation will pay dividends.
Invest in good help and information
Investing in your continued development or qualified help to set up and get the operation moving is not a waste of money. There are a whole heap of things you will juggle as you set up your business, especially if you are working in the operation. Of course, business development has to continue otherwise the momentum stops.
Hiring a consultant to help you with the extra workload (be that a security consultant, accountant, supplier, etc.) can help you remain laser-focused on building that business. Just make sure you can afford it and drive the maximum value from the spend. Or, you may wish to invest some time and money into learning or further developing your skills in areas you aren’t entirely confident in. Business fundamentals, risk management or financial courses are all relevant to business.
Want a hand with your security company startup? Contact me.