Starting a security company can be a very lucrative business venture. Not only is the market for security services growing each year, but the industry is also relatively easy to enter. However, there are several things you will need to do in order to get your business off the ground and running smoothly. In this article, we will outline the basic steps you need to take in order to start a security company.
10 Steps to Launching a New Security Company
1. Choose Your Type of Security Company
The first step in launching a security company is to identify the type of security company you want to launch. You might choose from the following types among others:
Full-service security company: This type of business provides a complete suite of security services, including armed and unarmed security guards, mobile patrols, alarm systems, and access control systems.
Security consulting firm: A security consulting firm provides advice and guidance to clients on how to improve their security posture. They might also offer training services and conduct security audits.
Security products manufacturer: A security products manufacturer designs and manufactures security products, such as alarm systems, access control systems, and security cameras.
Learn more about the types of security businesses.
2. Name Your Security Company
Give your security company an identity so people will think of it as a well-known and respected brand. You can take the name of your security company from your industry, focus on a geographical location, or use your own name among other options.
The main goal for naming your security company is to make it sound appealing and trustworthy so that potential clients will want to do business with you.
3. Determine Your Security Company Business Model
There are several possible types of business models for a security company including:
- Selling security services to businesses: You can focus on providing security services to businesses of all sizes.
- Selling security services to residential customers: You can focus on providing security services to homeowners and renters.
- Working as a subcontractor for another security company: You can work as a subcontractor for another security company, providing services they need.
No matter which model you choose, make sure that it aligns with your business goals and the services you offer.
4. Choose a Legal Form for Your Business
By incorporating your security company, you will limit your liability. You can incorporate as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), a C Corporation (C-Corp), or an S Corporation (S-Corp). Or you can operate as a sole proprietorship.
The business structure you choose for your security company will determine the amount of taxes you pay and which state or federal tax forms you need to file.
Read our article comparing the most common security company business structures.
5. Write a Security Company Business Plan
All security company owners should develop a business plan.
A business plan is a document that outlines the goals, strategies, and operations of a business. It can be used to secure funding from investors or lenders, as well as to guide the day-to-day operations of the business. The business plan should include information on the company’s products or services, market analysis, financial projections, and management team among other things.
Read our article about how to write a security company business plan.
6. Apply for the Necessary Permits and Licenses
There may be required licenses and permits you need to obtain before launching your security company.
For example, if you plan to sell security products, you might need a license from the state in which you operate. And if you’re going to offer armed security services, you’ll need to obtain a gun permit.
Contact your local Small Business Administration (SBA) office or Chamber of Commerce to learn more about the business licenses and permits required in your area.
You must also register your security company as a legal entity with the state where you plan to do business. You can simply file an online form through your Secretary of State website.
Registering with the federal government is also essential so you can properly pay taxes for your business. You will also need an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which you can apply for at the IRS website, if you plan to hire employees.
Read our article about obtaining the proper security company business licenses.
7. Determine Your Budget & Apply for Funding as Needed
In developing your security company business plan, you will figure out how much funding you need to start and grow your business.
If you have your own funds to invest in your security company, you may consider taking advantage of that. In addition to your personal funds, other forms of potential funding for your security company include traditional bank loans, SBA loans, credit cards, angel investors and family and friends.
Read our article about the costs associated with starting a security company to help you determine if funding is needed.
Read our article about how to fund your security company.
8. Get the Technology & Software Needed to Run Your Business Efficiently
When you start your security company, it’s essential to have the right technology in place to maximize efficiency. You definitely need a computer with Internet access, and accounting software for tracking expenses and revenues.
You may also want to invest in security-specific software, such as an access control system, to manage and monitor your clients’ security systems.
Other technology needs for your security company may include a business phone system, email marketing software and project management software.
9. Market Your Security Company to Potential Clients
Before you start selling your services, you have to let the world know you exist. The first step is to create a website so people can learn more about your services and how they benefit them.
After you launch your website, start promoting it through social media channels like Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. Also consider networking with other people in the security company industry through social media and blogs so they can help share your business.
You also need to start gathering the materials needed to execute on your promotions strategy, which is your strategy for attracting new customers. Security companies should consider the following promotional strategies for which you should start getting prepared:
– Advertising in security trade magazines
– Sponsoring or exhibiting at security industry events
– Creating informative blog articles and videos related to security
– Creating a strong social media presence
– Investing in search engine optimization (SEO) for your website
Read our article about how to market your security company for more tips.
10. Get New Clients & Grow Your Business
When you promote your services, you’ll start to get interest from potential clients.
Make sure you’re ready to serve these clients. Also, be sure to establish systems to ensure consistency and reduce costs. And be sure to find and train the right people to help you grow your security company.
Read our article about how to effectively grow your security company to learn more.
Starting a Security CompanyFAQs
Why Start a Security Company Business?
There are many reasons why starting a security company business can be a great idea, including the following:
- The security industry is growing rapidly.
- There is a great demand for security services.
- You can be your own boss and set your own hours.
- You can choose the clients you work with.
- You can offer a variety of services to your clients.
The security company industry is growing rapidly as businesses and individuals alike look for ways to improve security. This presents a great opportunity for entrepreneurs to start a security company business and tap into this growing market.
What is Needed to Start a Successful Security Company Business?
There are several things you need to do to start a successful security company business, including the following:
- Choose the right niche.
- Develop a strong business plan.
- Invest in the right technology.
- Market your business effectively.
- Get new clients and grow your business.
To start a successful security company business, you need to choose the right niche, develop a strong business plan, invest in the right technology, market your business effectively, and get new clients. You also need to find and train the right people to help you grow your security company business.
How Can I Start a Security Company Business From Home?
Starting a security company business from home is a great way to get started in the industry. There are several things you need to do to start a successful security company business from home, including the following:
- Choose the right niche.
- Develop a strong business plan.
- Invest in the right technology.
- Market your business.
How Can I Start a Security Company Business Online?
Starting a security company business online is a great way to get started in the industry. To start a successful security company business online, you need to develop a strong online presence. This includes having a website, creating informative blog articles and videos, and establishing a strong social media presence. You also need to invest in search engine optimization (SEO) for your website.
What are Some Tips for Starting a Security Company Business?
Here are some tips for starting a security company business:
- Choose the right niche.
- Develop a strong business plan.
- Invest in the right technology.
- Market your business effectively.
- Find clients and grow your business.
To start a successful security company business, you need to choose the right niche, develop a strong business plan, and invest in the right technology.
Where Can I Find a Simple Checklist for Starting a Security Company Business?
A simple checklist to use when starting a security company business is as follows:
- Choose Your Type of Security Company Firm: This should be based on what you are best at and how much experience you have. Remember to keep your interests, skills, and experience in mind at all times.
- Name Your Security Company Business: This should be done with care, as your brand is important for attracting the right customers. A simple, memorable name will go a long way.
- Choose a Legal Form for Your Business: Whether you choose to become a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation or another option will depend on your business. Ensure that you are aware of all the implications of each type.
- Determine Your Security Company Business Model: Determine how your business will make money. Will you sell products, services, or a combination of both?
- Write a Security Company Business Plan: Your business plan will also help you determine what your start-up costs will be and will provide a roadmap with which you can launch and grow.
- Apply for the Necessary Permits and Licenses: In most locations you will be required to apply for a business license and/or permits before you can begin operations.
- Determine Your Budget & Apply for Funding as Needed: You will need to know how much money you have to spend on all of your business-related expenses before opening any doors. If needed, apply for a small business loan or other funding options.
- Get the Technology & Software Needed to Run Your Business Efficiently: You need to have the right tools in place to succeed. Implement software that will help you manage your time, contacts, and business operations in general.
- Market Your Security Company Business to Potential Clients: A solid marketing plan will be crucial to your success. It should focus on attracting the right customers so that you can provide them with the services they truly need.
- Get Clients & Grow Your Business: Once you have a solid marketing plan, it's time to actively pursue and secure those who could benefit the most from your services.
Summary
Starting a security company is a great way to get started in the industry. To start a successful security company, you need to develop a strong online presence, invest in SEO, choose the right niche, and market your business effectively. You also need to get new clients and grow your business.