Blog April 24, 2025 Hiring Commercial Security Guards: What to Look For What to Look for When Hiring Commercial Security Guards for Your Property Keeping your commercial property secure isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s a necessity. Whether you’re managing a bustling office complex, a retail space, or a corporate campus, professional security guards are your first line of defense. However, not all security services are created equally. So, how do you know you’re hiring the right team? At Planned Companies, we understand the unique needs of commercial properties and know what makes a security guard not just good but exceptional. Here’s what you should look for when hiring commercial security guards and how our team delivers on every front. Experience and Training Matter—A Lot Let’s start with the basics. You want security personnel who are more than just a uniform. They need to be trained, licensed, and experienced in handling real-world situations. Industry-Specific Experience Not all properties are the same, and neither are their security needs. An office building might require someone to understand access control, while a shopping center may need crowd management experience. Planned Companies customizes our staffing based on your environment so you’re not stuck with a cookie-cutter solution. Ongoing Training and Certifications Our guards undergo rigorous onboarding and continuous training, including fire watch protocols, emergency response, and de-escalation techniques. Staying sharp is key with ever-evolving threats, and we make that a priority. Professionalism and Presence Go Hand-in-Hand A guard’s presence does more than deter crime. It shapes the atmosphere of your property. They’re often the first point of contact for tenants, visitors, or customers. Appearance and Communication Skills Would you trust someone who shows up looking sloppy or indifferent? Neither would we. At Planned Companies, our guards are trained to maintain a professional appearance and communicate calmly and courteously. Customer Service Focus Yes, your guard is there to provide security, but they should also be approachable. Whether it’s giving directions, assisting a tenant, or handling a late-night visitor, soft skills are just as crucial as hard ones. Reliability and Responsiveness Are Non-Negotiable What good is a security guard who’s late, distracted, or unsure of what to do in a pinch? That’s why reliability and rapid response are significant benchmarks in our hiring process. Accountability and Supervision At Planned Companies, we don’t just place guards and hope for the best. We actively monitor performance, provide supervisory support, and maintain open lines of communication with clients. Our guards are where they say they’ll be—alert and ready. Emergency Preparedness From fire alarms to suspicious packages, emergencies happen. Our guards are trained to stay cool under pressure and act fast, alerting authorities or guiding people to safety. Customized Solutions for Every Property You shouldn’t have to mold your needs to fit a security provider. The right company will mold its services around you. Property Assessments and Tailored Planning We start with a comprehensive review of your property, including entry points, traffic flow, and unique risks. Then, we design a plan and staff accordingly. This ensures the highest level of protection without unnecessary costs or inefficiencies. Flexible Scheduling and Services Do you need overnight coverage? Weekends only? Fire watch support during renovations? We’ve got you. Planned Companies offers flexible scheduling and a variety of services, so you’re never boxed in. A Reputation You Can Trust In the security industry, reputation is everything. You want a company that backs up its promises with proven results. Testimonials and Track Record Planned Companies has decades of experience serving commercial properties across the country. Our long-term client relationships speak volumes about the trust we’ve earned. Compliance and Insurance We stay current on all licensing requirements and carry full liability insurance, so you’re always protected. Conclusion: Your Property Deserves the Best Protection Choosing the proper commercial security guards can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. You can ensure your property is safe by focusing on professionalism, experience, responsiveness, and customization. At Planned Companies, we go beyond basic security—we offer peace of mind built on trust and tailored service. Whether you need full-time coverage, fire watch officers, or a security strategy from the ground up, we’re here to help you safeguard what matters most. FAQs What types of commercial properties do Planned Companies service? We provide security for office buildings, retail spaces, corporate campuses, and mixed-use properties. Are your security guards licensed and trained? Yes. All our guards are licensed and background-checked and undergo thorough training, including emergency response and fire watch. Can I customize the level of security my property receives? Absolutely. We offer flexible service packages tailored to your specific needs and risks. What makes Planned Companies different from other security providers? Our blend of professionalism, training, and customer-first approach sets us apart. We also offer complete transparency and consistent supervisory support. Do you provide fire watch officers as well? Yes! We specialize in security guard services and fire watch officers, ensuring compliance and safety during system outages or construction work.