{"id":1231,"date":"2024-08-30T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-08-30T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/\/knowledge\/articles\/how-to-start-a-security-company-uk\/"},"modified":"2025-07-21T12:56:37","modified_gmt":"2025-07-21T12:56:37","slug":"how-to-start-a-security-company-uk","status":"publish","type":"knowledge","link":"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-start-a-security-company-uk\/","title":{"rendered":"How to become a security guard: a step-by-step guide"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With crime rates front of mind for lots of people, now could be a good time to set up a business that makes the public feel safer. Starting a security company is one way to do that.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The number of crimes recorded in the year ending March 2024 reached 6.7 million, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). And with a stretched police force, there\u2019s more and more demand for private security to help tackle crime.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you\u2019re already working in security and want to start your own security company, or are starting from scratch, this guide should help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"howtobecomeasecurityguard\">How to become a security guard<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The security industry is tough, in more ways than one, and it\u2019s important to build experience before setting up your own company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This means you should have a very particular set of skills to deal with whatever comes your way, as well as the contacts needed to give your business a head start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this section we talk about what it takes to become a security guard if you don\u2019t already have experience. If you just want to know how to set up your business, skip to our <a href=\"#guide\">step-by-step guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"whatdoesasecurityguarddo\">What does a security guard do?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are different aspects to running a security business. If you\u2019re new to the industry, you might start by getting employed as a security officer to gain experience in the industry. This could be on a freelance or employed basis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to the <a href=\"https:\/\/nationalcareers.service.gov.uk\/job-profiles\/security-officer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">National Careers Service<\/a> this could involve:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">patrolling premises, or monitoring or securing them, often with the aid of CCTV<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">guarding and securing cash or other valuables that are being transported<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">working security at an airport and power stations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">door supervision for organisations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">responding to alarms<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"doyouneedaqualificationtobecomeasecurityguard\">Do you need a qualification to become a security guard?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The National Careers Service says the qualification you\u2019ll need will depend on the type of security work you want to do. For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">guarding cash and valuables in transit<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">public space surveillance (CCTV)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">front line security<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">close protection<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They also say that previous experience in the armed forces or the police would be useful. You may need an SIA licence (you\u2019ll definitely need the SIA licences when you\u2019re starting your own security company, so there\u2019s more on this below).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Find out more about licence-linked <a href=\"https:\/\/www.services.sia.homeoffice.gov.uk\/Pages\/training-ApprovedTrainingProviders.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">training courses<\/a> and approved providers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You could also look into general business courses, for example <a href=\"\/knowledge\/business-tax\/what-is-bookkeeping\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1259\">bookkeeping<\/a>, which could help you with the administrative side of running your own security business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"whatisasecurityguardsalary\"><strong>How much does a security guard make?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/uk.indeed.com\/career\/security-guard\/salaries\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Indeed<\/a> lists the average security guard salary in the UK as <strong>\u00a320,368<\/strong>, but this is for employed security guards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Naturally this will be different if you\u2019re running your own business, plus it depends on the type of security business you eventually set up. You also need to factor in your costs, including hiring staff, and training, and insurance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In terms of rates, what you charge clients will also depend on the type of job required. Most basic security services are charged out at between \u00a310 and \u00a320 an hour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make sure to keep your <a href=\"\/knowledge\/income\/how-to-calculate-profit-margin\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1422\">profit margin<\/a> in mind and create (and stick to) a <a href=\"\/knowledge\/income\/how-to-budget-calculator-and-guide-for-the-self-employed\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"956\">business budget<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019ll be a good idea to do your <a href=\"\/knowledge\/marketing\/how-to-do-market-research\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"982\">market research<\/a>, speaking to local security firms to find out what they charge before deciding what rates to set. This research will also inform how much you pay any employees you end up hiring.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" id=\"guide\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"guide\">How to start a security company \u2013 step-by-step<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So you\u2019ve already acquired the skills you need over your career, and now you want to start your own security company. Here are five steps to get going:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#specialise\">What area will you specialise in?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#regs\">Understand the legal rules and regulations<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#equipment\">What equipment will you need for your security company?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#staff\">How to hire staff for your security company<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"#marketing\">How to market your security company<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"nba-body-001\">\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" id=\"specialise\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"specialise\">1. What area will you specialise in?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As with any business, it\u2019s important to have a niche. The first place to look when deciding on a specialism is your own experience. You\u2019ll know first-hand how that particular type of security should be run. Plus, you&#8217;ll have contacts in the field that already know you give a great service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are just some of the niches you could consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">door supervision<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">bodyguarding<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">manned security guarding<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">event security<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">providing and handling guard dogs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">monitoring CCTV<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Is there a <a href=\"\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-find-a-gap-in-the-market\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"983\">gap in the market<\/a> or can you solve an existing problem with your business?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your business\u2019s location should also play a part in your eventual decision, because as with any business, it needs to meet an existing demand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, if there\u2019s no need for door security in your region, that niche might not be worth pursuing. Carry out some research into existing security businesses and the needs of your potential clients in the area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This kind of research will likely form part of your <a href=\"\/knowledge\/strategy\/how-to-write-a-business-plan\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1199\">business plan<\/a>. Every new business needs a business plan, so you should write one before you set out. Here you can explain your vision and what you hope to achieve, adding information like a financial plan and market research.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It can also be useful to do a <a href=\"\/knowledge\/strategy\/how-to-do-business-swot-analysis-template\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"944\">SWOT analysis<\/a> to note particular strengths and weaknesses for your business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"478\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/SWOT-analysis-example.png?w=1024\" alt=\"SWOT analysis example\" class=\"wp-image-3150\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/SWOT-analysis-example.png 3396w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/SWOT-analysis-example.png?resize=800,373 800w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/SWOT-analysis-example.png?resize=768,358 768w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/SWOT-analysis-example.png?resize=1024,478 1024w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/SWOT-analysis-example.png?resize=1536,716 1536w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/SWOT-analysis-example.png?resize=2048,955 2048w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/05\/SWOT-analysis-example.png?resize=150,70 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" id=\"regs\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"regs\">2. Understand the legal rules and regulations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/organisations\/security-industry-authority\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Security Industry Authority (SIA)<\/a> is a good place to start when getting to grips with legalities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As they\u2019re the people responsible for regulating the private security industry, you\u2019ll need the relevant training and licensing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are different licences available for front-line and non front-line staff so it\u2019s worth spending time on their website, researching the options available and what you\u2019ll ultimately need to apply for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When setting up your own company, it might also be a good idea to look at the SIA\u2019s <strong>Approved Contractor Scheme<\/strong> (ACS). The SIA say the scheme aims to \u201craise performance standards and assist the private security industry in developing new opportunities\u201d. For micro security businesses with up to 10 licensable staff, it costs \u00a3400 to apply for the scheme and there\u2019s an annual registration fee of \u00a315 \u201cper licensable individual deployed\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can also get other certificates and accreditations, including the NSI, ISO 9001, SafeContractor scheme, and CHAS (Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You should also choose a legal structure for your business. Will you set up as a sole trader, partnership, or a limited company? There are pros and cons to each. Our guide explains <a href=\"\/knowledge\/starting-out\/sole-trader-vs-limited-company\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1532\">the difference between a sole trader and a limited company<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You also need to <a href=\"\/knowledge\/business-structure\/register-as-self-employed\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1501\">register as self-employed with HMRC<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"whataboutsecurityindustryinsurance\">What about security industry insurance?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With the day-to-day risks involved in running a business, getting the right insurance policy is important. Here are some of the key covers that will make up <a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/business-insurance\/by-industry\/security-company-insurance\/\">security company business insurance<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/business-insurance\/security-guard-insurance\/\">public liability insurance<\/a> \u2013 this covers the cost of a claim if a member of the public suffers an injury or loss because of your business<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/business-insurance\/employers-liability-insurance\/\">employers\u2019 liability insurance<\/a> \u2013 this is usually a legal requirement if you have employees. It covers the cost of a claim if an employee is injured or gets sick as a result of working for you \u2013 you could be fined \u00a32,500 a day if you need it and don\u2019t have it<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/business-insurance\/professional-indemnity-insurance\/\">professional indemnity insurance<\/a> \u2013 this covers mistakes made in the advice or service you give to clients<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Being able to tailor your insurance policy means you only pay for the cover you need. For example, here at Simply Business we also offer specific <a href=\"\/business-insurance\/security-guard-insurance\/\">insurance for security guards<\/a> as well as self-employed door supervisors and CCTV installers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" id=\"equipment\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"equipment\">3. What equipment do you need for your security company?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This depends on the type of service you\u2019re giving. But essential equipment can include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">two-way radios and smartphones<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">first aid kits<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">notebooks and pens to record incidents and information<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">torches<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">cameras and recording equipment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\">alarms for lone security guards (there are also apps and smart technology that can protect your staff)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And keep in mind that if you do hire staff, they\u2019ll need specialist clothing. Uniforms can help your business seem more reputable, as well as working as advertising by showing off your logo. Make sure you\u2019ve thought about things like protective vests, durable footwear, and high-visibility jackets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"whatabouttoolandequipmentinsurance\">What about tool and equipment insurance?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You might struggle to carry out your day-to-day work and fulfil commitments to clients if your tools and equipment get lost, stolen, or damaged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That\u2019s why it\u2019s a good idea to think about adding <a href=\"\/business-insurance\/business-equipment-insurance\/\">protection for your equipment<\/a> to a business insurance policy. It can help you get back on your feet quickly should anything happen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"\/knowledge\/trades\/tool-theft-in-2025-tougher-sentences-coming-soon\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1203\">The UK\u2019s tool theft hotspots revealed<\/a> \u2013 does your town appear?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" id=\"staff\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"staff\">4. Hiring staff for your security company<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You might not need employees when you start out but they could come in a number of guises as your company grows, from front-line security guards to someone helping out in your office. But regardless of the type of employee, it\u2019s important to hire the best people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When it comes to attracting potential recruits, you can post on your website, social media accounts and both general and specialist job boards. You can also call on existing contacts, who might be suited to the role or know someone who fits the bill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep in mind that security guards need the right licences and training. You should ask about their experience in interviews, carrying out due diligence. This will involve running <a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/staff\/background-check-for-employment\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1329\">background checks<\/a> to make sure potential employees don\u2019t have a criminal record. Being thorough at the start of the hiring process could save you hassle down the line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019ll also need to know how much to pay your staff, factoring wages into your financial plans. And remember when you\u2019re just starting out, hiring <a href=\"\/knowledge\/staff\/how-to-hire-temporary-staff\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"999\">temporary employees<\/a> or subcontractors could be a better option financially than hiring full-time employees.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" id=\"marketing\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"marketing\">5. How to market your security company<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019ve chosen your niche. You\u2019re up to speed on all the rules and regulations. You\u2019ve gone ahead and set up your company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now, you need to find clients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is where your experience comes in handy, because your existing contacts may be eager to hire you. Beyond that, read on for how to get a security contract and ways you can market your business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"yourbrand\">Your brand<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>create a brand<\/strong> \u2013 choosing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/marketing\/how-to-create-a-brand-identity\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1114\">the right brand<\/a> will influence a lot of your marketing. A good place to start is a logo, which you can use on things like your website, leaflets and even your vans<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>name your business<\/strong> \u2013 it\u2019s important that your name is unique, memorable and stands out. Why not use our <a href=\"\/business-name-generator\/\" data-type=\"page\" data-id=\"6\">business name generator<\/a> for some light-hearted inspiration?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>create a website and social media presence<\/strong> \u2013 make it easy for your clients to find you. Your <a href=\"\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-create-a-business-website\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1424\">business website<\/a> should list the services you offer and your contact details and be optimised so people can find your website in Google. Plus, social media is a good way to interact with your clients (and potential clients)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"560\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/06\/SB-UK_BBBN_LandingPage_Stats-scaled.jpg?w=1024\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-17722\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/06\/SB-UK_BBBN_LandingPage_Stats-scaled.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/06\/SB-UK_BBBN_LandingPage_Stats-scaled.jpg?resize=800,438 800w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/06\/SB-UK_BBBN_LandingPage_Stats-scaled.jpg?resize=768,420 768w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/06\/SB-UK_BBBN_LandingPage_Stats-scaled.jpg?resize=1024,560 1024w, https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/06\/SB-UK_BBBN_LandingPage_Stats-scaled.jpg?resize=150,82 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"yourcustomers\">Your customers<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>define your ideal client and target them<\/strong> \u2013 you might have specified the type of clients you want to attract in your business plan. If you haven\u2019t, this is a useful exercise, because it will inform your message and how you go after them \u2013 whether that\u2019s through traditional print advertising, leafleting, or email marketing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>bid on and apply for contracts<\/strong> \u2013 while it\u2019s a competitive arena, you should keep an eye on online portals where you can find, bid on, or simply apply for security contracts. For example, the government has its own <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/contracts-finder\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">contracts finder<\/a> website, and there are other websites you can use to find contracts, like Tenders Direct. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/strategy\/how-to-write-a-business-proposal\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1003\">business proposal template<\/a> could help<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>contact potential clients<\/strong> \u2013 talking to people is still a good way to win new clients. You can speak to individuals or bigger companies who might need security services, letting them know what you\u2019re offering and why they should choose you over anyone else<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"yourreputation\">Your reputation<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>ask existing clients for referrals<\/strong> \u2013 once you\u2019ve won a client, don\u2019t be afraid to ask them to refer you to their contacts if they\u2019re happy with your services. Referrals are a powerful way to win new business \u2013 and only enhance your reputation in the community<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>build your Google reviews<\/strong> \u2013 another way to grow your reputation and get noticed is to encourage happy customers to leave you a <a href=\"\/knowledge\/marketing\/how-to-get-google-reviews-for-your-business\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"998\">positive Google review<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><strong>manage fake online reviews<\/strong> \u2013 if you\u2019re unlucky enough to get a <a href=\"\/knowledge\/marketing\/how-small-businesses-can-tackle-fake-online-reviews\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1077\">fake review online<\/a>, there are things you can do to tackle it<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Read our <a href=\"\/knowledge\/marketing\/how-to-advertise-your-business\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1410\">expert guide to marketing<\/a> for more tips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not sure if starting a security company is for you? Here are <a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/knowledge\/starting-out\/small-business-ideas\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"24127\">the best small business ideas<\/a> for more inspiration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Are you thinking about starting a security company? Let us know in the comments.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">More useful articles for starting a business <\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/knowledge\/starting-out\/how-to-start-a-business\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1444\">How to start a business<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/knowledge\/business-tax\/self-employed-tax-changes\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1514\">The self-employed guide to Self Assessment tax returns<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/knowledge\/business-structure\/register-as-self-employed\/\" data-type=\"knowledge\" data-id=\"1501\">Going self-employed in the UK: a guide to get started<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-list-item\"><a href=\"\/business-insurance\/faq\/do-i-need-business-insurance\/\">Why do I need business insurance?<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<div id=\"nba-upsell-001\" class=\"wp-block-group has-azure-200-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-94e519ba wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--80);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--40)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" id=\"insureyoursecuritybusiness\">Insure your security business<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">You can build a tailored <a href=\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/business-insurance\/by-industry\/security-company-insurance\/\">security industry insurance<\/a> policy choosing from a range of expert cover options, starting with <a href=\"\/business-insurance\/public-liability-insurance\/\">public liability insurance<\/a>. Run a quick quote to get started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-a89b3969 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/quote.simplybusiness.co.uk\/business\">Start your quote<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"nba-body-end\">\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Make the public feel safer and work for yourself by starting a security company.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":3475,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"sb_hreflang":"","sb_hreflang_url":"","disable_breadcrumbs":false,"sb_breadcrumbs":[],"sb_reviewed_by":"","sb_review_date":"","sb_enable_content_gating":true,"footnotes":""},"categories":[110,339],"hidden-category":[],"coauthors":[24],"class_list":["post-1231","knowledge","type-knowledge","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-business-news","category-starting-out"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.2 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to become a security guard: a step-by-step guide<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Ever wondered how to become a security guard and start your own security company? 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