9 Things To Look For When Choosing The Best Security Guard Company in Toronto
Security is a top priority for businesses of all sizes, and finding the right security guard company for your business needs is pivotal to success and safety. In a metropolis like Toronto, it's essential to choose a security guard company that can provide the protection and peace of mind your business requires. Here are some tips on how to find the best security guard in Toronto for your specific needs.
1. Trusted by Major Brands and Clients
A security guard company's credibility is often reflected in the major brands and clients it serves. The greater the number of major brands in a company’s portfolio of clients, the better. This demonstrates a track record of being trusted by well-known businesses. A client base consisting of a high number of recognizable brands attests to a security company’s reliability and implies a level of service that major brands demand.
Additionally, you should choose a security company that has extensive experience working with larger companies in a similar niche to your own, whether that’s hospitality, retail, warehouse, residential, construction, or another industry.
2. Certified Security Guards
In Toronto, security guards are required to be licensed and accredited. Ensure that any company you consider holds the necessary licences and certifications. This demonstrates their commitment to professionalism and adherence to legal and ethical standards.
Security guards are required to have a valid Security Guard or Private Investigator licence from Service Ontario. Such licences issue a criminal record check and require a competency course and examination to ensure Ontario security standards. If you’d like the security professionals to actively use force and handcuffs, the security personnel you employ should also hold a Use of Force licence.
3. Experienced Security Experts
Experience is a key factor in finding the best security guard for your business. Look for uniformed security guards or protection experts who have experience in industries similar to yours or who have handled comparable security challenges. Their knowledge and expertise can make a significant difference in safeguarding your business.
If you can’t find much information about the security company’s similar experience on the website, we recommend asking a company representative during your discovery inquiry.
4. Reputation & References
Research the reputation of the security guard company by reading online reviews or asking for references from previous clients. While no security guard company is perfect, talking to other businesses that have worked with the company in question can provide valuable insights into their performance and reliability.
Additionally, testimonials and references from previous clients can provide valuable insights into the company's performance and reliability. A reputable security company should prominently display its testimonials on its website. Seek out a security provider with a solid reputation, supported by positive feedback from businesses in a similar niche to yours.
Google Reviews is also a great place to find testimonials, but you need to be sure they’re real. A high Google rating is indicative of a good reputation, but complete perfection is rare, especially in the security industry. On the other hand, a high but not flawless rating points to the authenticity of reviews. Look for patterns in feedback to understand a security company’s strengths.
5. Professional Deportment & Appearance
Security guards are often the first personnel that your clients will see when they walk into your business. Therefore, choosing a security guard company in Toronto that looks the part should be a part of your analysis.
We recommend asking during your discovery call about the types of uniforms they consider suitable for your specific site. Uniform requirements can vary based on the industry. For example, construction sites may require bright and safety-conscious uniforms, while front desk security may need a professional and welcoming appearance. If you're uncertain, inquire whether they offer alternative options.
6. Extensive Security & De-escalation Training
In today's security landscape, verbal de-escalation is the recommended method to deter theft and vagrancy, as it can help mitigate the risk of unwanted media incidents or lawsuits.
Therefore, we strongly recommend looking for a security company that places a strong emphasis on verbal de-escalation training and prioritizes a hands-off approach as the primary mode of response. Failing to understand and prioritize verbal de-escalation can expose you to both financial and reputational risks.
Additionally, consider a company's training and experience in interacting with vulnerable populations. A well-trained security guard is more likely to handle situations effectively and professionally, including de-escalation, emergency response, and access control.
When evaluating security providers, be sure to inquire about the training and ongoing education programs that the company expects and enforces. This ensures that their guards are equipped to not only respond to security threats but also interact sensitively with those in need, enhancing the safety and well-being of all stakeholders.
7. A Reliable Client Support System
In a large metropolis like Toronto, unpredictability is to be expected, and having a stable program for clients to provide feedback and communicate changes is crucial. You want to look for a security guard company that has a local, real human support system, rather than relying on AI or overseas representatives.
Security emergencies and efficiencies can often involve life-threatening situations and significant financial implications. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that you have the appropriate support to mitigate and respond to emergencies and feedback. We recommend looking for a security guard company in Toronto that has:
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A 24/7 hotline staffed by local professionals capable of making informed decisions to respond to your emergencies promptly
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Client service representatives who comprehensively understand your specific business requirements and priorities
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An escalation plan in place should you find your current representative or service unsatisfactory
8. Advanced Security Technology
The best security companies leverage technology to stay ahead of potential threats. Look for companies that use tools like Tracktik, a platform that offers real-time updates, detailed reporting, and GPS tracking of security personnel. Advanced technology and software enhance transparency and allow you to monitor your security team in real time, providing peace of mind.
9. Customized Security Solutions
Every business is unique, and your protection needs may not fit into a one-size-fits-all model. While some operations might require warehouse security and foot patrols, others may need retail security and loss prevention methods. Look for a company that will provide customized security solutions tailored to your specific requirements. This might involve risk assessment and a security plan that is uniquely designed for your business.
What Makes Blackbird Security The Best Security Company In Toronto?
Toronto business owners know how important security is in not only protecting assets and property, but providing a safe environment for customers, guests, and visitors. Throughout 2023, Toronto saw a steady rise in break-ins, for a total of 7,642 (up from 2022’s figure of 6,102). Fortunately, security companies like Blackbird Security prevent crimes from taking place in Toronto businesses.
When it comes to ensuring safety and peace of mind, Blackbird Security stands out as the best choice for security in Toronto. We set the standard for excellence across the board, providing excellent customer service to our many clients based in Toronto. In this blog, we’ll dive into what sets us apart from the competition.
Proven Track Record
We’ve earned the trust of major brands and clients across various industries, including prominent brands like MEC, Best Buy, and Canadian Tire. Our clients know they can count on us to provide excellent, attentive, and proactive security services. See our testimonials to read what our Toronto clients have to say.
Experience In Toronto
At Blackbird Security, we understand that every metropolitan area is unique, and Toronto is no exception. Its vibrant, bustling streets provide plenty of security opportunities and challenges for businesses of all kinds. From our years of experience in the city, we’ve tailored our expertise to provide customized security solutions that meet the specific needs of Torontonians.
Canada’s Number-One Security Company
Finding the best security solutions for your business in Toronto is a critical investment in your company's safety and success. By conducting thorough research, understanding your unique security needs, and evaluating the qualifications and reputation of potential guard companies in Toronto, you can make an informed decision that will provide you with peace of mind and safeguard your business from potential threats.
At Blackbird Security, our team applies comprehensive plans that are tailored to your needs. In addition to serving Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area, our security services are available all across Canada in cities including:
National Resources
At Blackbird Security, we’re proud to offer nationwide coverage to all of our clients across Canada. Many of our clients in Toronto operate at the national level, and we’re able to provide security for their locations in every province. Our national scope grants us the resources to provide comprehensive coverage and customized, personalized attention to each client. We tailor our services to meet their unique needs, no matter their size.
24/7 Customer Support
We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service, from on-site security guards to our operations teams. Our 24/7 Support Centre team is on hand to provide prompt assistance when our clients need it. In addition to our extensive team of personnel, Blackbird Security has offices in Toronto, enabling us to provide on-the-ground support to our clients.
Best-in-Class Security Training
One key element that sets Blackbird Security apart from competitors is our comprehensive approach to training. We offer a variety of in-house security training courses for our security guards, equipping them with the tools they need to provide security at a world-class level. Our commitment to continuous learning and skill development sets Blackbird Security guards apart as true professionals in the field.
Highlights from our in-house training modules include Customer Service Excellence, Use of Force training, First Aid Training, and Crisis Prevention Training. Learn more about the education and training our security guards undergo here.
Variety of Services Offered
One element that is particularly helpful to consider, especially for larger-scale businesses, is the ability to provide comprehensive security services. For businesses with retail storefronts, warehouses, offices, or other physical locations that require protection, a security company offering comprehensive services across these areas and more is a valuable asset.
At Blackbird Security, we’re proud to provide services that support our clients across all areas of their businesses. One of these clients is Best Buy. Here’s how we support this consumer electronics giant, providing security services across all aspects of their business, from storefronts to warehouses and now their corporate offices.
Case Study: Securing Best Buy With Retail Security, Warehouse Security, and Corporate Office Security Across Canada
Due to the high-value nature of Best Buy’s electronic goods, we worked with them to develop a comprehensive retail security strategy that included loss prevention and tactical security guards. This added an extra layer of protection to each of Best Buy’s stores.
At Blackbird Security, we take an approach to security that prioritizes customer service and guest experience - while also providing excellent, professional, and reliable security. With Best Buy, and all of our retail clients, we strive to ensure that our guards seamlessly blend with store teams and represent brands in their best light. In addition to customer service training, our guards receive cultural sensitivity training to ensure that every encounter can be resolved peacefully with empathy.
In addition to their stores, Best Buy’s goods needed protection at their warehouses. They called on us to provide warehouse security to ensure the safety of the brand’s valuable inventory and provide security during the transport process. Warehouse security guards ensure that the identities of all incoming visitors are verified, monitor access points and the property’s environment for issues and vulnerabilities, and perform regular checks of specific areas to ensure their security.
Most recently, we’ve partnered once again with Best Buy to provide suit-and-tie security for their corporate office, in addition to our pre-existing storefront and warehouse security services. For Best Buy, we deployed our concierge security guards. These highly trained front desk office security guards provide a frontline security presence while greeting visitors, enforcing office policies, and maintaining CCTV surveillance of assigned areas.
We offer a vast array of services to suit every security need. Whether your business requires a uniformed guard, mobile security patrols, concierge security, tactical security, undercover loss prevention, or a combination of services, we’re able to provide them at the highest level.
Partner With Toronto’s Best Security Company
With our proven track record, tailored service, and wealth of experience, we’re proud to provide premium security services in Toronto. Our dedication to excellence in all areas sets us apart as Toronto’s best, trusted by major brands to safeguard their assets and properties. Here’s what some of our clients have to say:
“Amazing company. They fulfilled all of my company’s security needs, diminished my losses, and look crisp at the same time. Dealing with this company has always been carried out professionally and thoroughly. On-the-spot flex changes are no problem. Need quick security to protect employees in a pinch? They accommodate fast. Reports are thorough and timely. Anything unusual is reported prior to the formal report, to save you from waiting.”
- Brandon D.
“Had the pleasure of hiring Blackbird Security for my industrial portfolio, which covers over one million square feet in area. They have been amazing to work with; great communication, detailed reports, and always go above and beyond their scope of work to ensure a proper job has been completed. Would recommend this company to property managers who want to ensure first-class service to their tenants.”
- Perry Mahal
“I have been using Blackbird Security for one year now and they have been nothing but the best. I am the head concierge of a condo building in which they work. The residents themselves have nothing but good things to say about the security placed at the desk. I would highly, highly recommend this company. The BEST.”
Gordon M.C.
Are you a Toronto business owner looking to partner with us? Contact us to learn how to get started.
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