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Top 3 Characteristics to Look for in a Private Security Company

Take any heist movie, and you’ll come across this scenario: the out-of-shape security guard sitting alone in an office, barely paying attention to grainy security monitors, getting up (maybe) every few hours to make a quick perimeter scan before going back to their comfy chair and baseball game. It’s no wonder crime occurs with that kind of inattention!

While that scenario certainly lends itself to the cinema, in real life it’s a recipe for disaster. The people who live in your apartment complex or who frequent your business want to feel safe, and that starts with hiring a trusted private security company. 

But not all private security companies are created equal. You don’t want to exchange one lax security guard for another! Here are the top three characteristics you should look for in a private security company. 

Mobile Patrol Means No Idle Time

The top private security companies offer mobile patrols. Instead of a guard staring at motionless black-and-white monitors for hours on end, mobile patrol security eliminates the office and the idle time. This means security officers are actively patrolling, looking for problem areas, checking door access, and always on alert. 

The visible presence of a private security vehicle and the randomized patrol route delivers a highly effective crime deterrent. If a disturbance does arise, the mobile patrol is ready at a moment’s notice to respond in a professional, positive manner. 

Check to see if your security company offers GPS tracking of mobile patrol vehicles. GPS tracking allows a property manager to know where the officer is at all times and ensure transparency, accountability, and return on investment.

Signal Security Mobile Patrols

Signal’s innovative mobile patrol provides budget-friendly peace of mind. Our highly visible SUVs are outfitted with 3M reflective graphics, LED lighting, and wi-fi communications technology.

 

Security Technology 24/7

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s important that your security company keeps up with the latest technology. We’re not talking about high-tech lasers that require a complicated capoeira routine a lá Vincent Cassel’s character in “Ocean’s 12” to beat (most security contractors aren’t that flexible).

No, this simply means staying on top of what’s happening at your property at any given time, knowing where your security company is, and being assured that they are ever-vigilant. (And not having to wait days for a report — unless you want to.)

Digital access to real-time reports is key. Can’t sleep at three in the morning because you’re worried about your property or your residents? With digital access, you can log into your client portal to check on the mobile reports that your security officer files throughout their shift. The best security companies will allow you to track their movements and see what they are seeing via video or still photos. 

This technology provides transparency to keep your private security company accountable to you, the client, and ensure you are getting the best security services possible. Even if it isn’t as entertaining as a capoeira routine.

The Signal Edge Difference

Signal’s branded technology Signal Edge gives you up-to-the-minute reports and real-time verification of activity. Our cloud-based software is user-friendly and flexible, available to clients 24/7, and customizable to fit your business needs.

 

One Size Doesn’t Fit All 

A hotel isn’t going to have the same security needs as an apartment complex, or a school or a commercial retail space, so why should they have the same kind of security plan? 

When searching for a private security company, it’s important to find one that fits your own unique needs. Look for a company that offers a free security assessment. During the meeting, ask yourself if they are listening to your concerns and tailoring their services to you. Are cars being broken into or vandalized? Ask how they would tackle that. Issues with late night skinny-dippers in the complex pool? Figure out if they will do pool lockups. Dogs barking or noise disturbances in the wee hours of the morning? Find out how they handle noise complaints and de-escalate neighbor conflicts so everyone can get a full night’s sleep.

In-depth knowledge of your neighborhood, city, or county also goes a long way with creating a customized security plan for your property. Locally owned private security companies tend to have more insider knowledge that goes a long way toward protecting your property. Just make sure they are a trusted brand with the resources to fully service your needs. You probably don’t want an untrained beginner driving around a Ford Fiesta with Security written in pink Comic Sans font on the side. That doesn’t exactly inspire confidence and safety.

A Brand You Can Trust

Our locally owned Signal franchises are backed by the resources of an award-winning national network. We work with you to find out what kind of security you need most to make you feel safe and secure.

 

We’re Here

At Signal, we know that when you have the freedom of security, you can live openly, joyfully, and peacefully. That’s why we’re here to help you feel safe, whether at your business, home, school, or any other place you pursue your passion in life.

Whatever you need, we’re here.

Click here to learn more about our full slate of security solutions.

Passion Award: Stephen Hayes
Signal of El Paso, TX & Signal of Greater Albuquerque, NM  


At Signal, we drive with passion in everything we do because passion connects people to purpose. 

Stephen Hayes exemplifies this every day. A positive and giving leader, Stephen is a role model to others in the network. He stays closely connected to the Home Office, ensuring he is personally executing operational details with excellence and accuracy. 

Beyond his own market, Stephen is always willing to lend advice and support anyone in the network who needs it, while maintaining strong results in his markets. His dedication, energy, and consistent positive attitude make him a powerful example of what it means to lead with passion. 

Honesty & Integrity Award: Jonas Palmer
Signal of Northwest Tennessee & Signal of Jackson, MS 

We live in honesty and integrity because without it, our company and our brand are hollow. 

Jonas Palmer has taken on some of our most challenging markets and turned them around in a remarkably short time. He leads from the front, never asking his team to do anything he isn’t willing to do himself. 

When feedback comes from the Home Office, whether operational or financial, Jonas responds with transparency and immediate follow-through. His professionalism, accountability, and respect in every interaction set a high standard for reliability and trust. 

Relationships Award: Mike Kosmet
Signal of Michigan 

We build relationships because healthy success can only be created with mutual respect for others. 

Mike Kosmet has demonstrated consistent success for more than a decade. He understands that collaboration fuels progress, as shown in his partnership with our Milwaukee office, which helped drive a significant market turnaround. 

Personable, responsive, and easy to work with, Mike prioritizes communication and follow-through. His ability to engage his team and work alongside peers has contributed to doubling the size of his business this year. He proves that strong relationships are a competitive advantage. 

Serving Award: Shane Wimer
Signal of Nebraska 

We serve our communities without hesitation because serving is the active ingredient in service. 

Shane Wimer led the development of Code Enforcement as a new service offering, generously sharing his entire process with the Home Office and fellow franchisees. His collaboration helped create sales and training materials that are driving growth across the network. 

He knows his officers by name and genuinely cares about their success, which is reflected in his team’s outstanding retention rates. Shane’s ability to balance strong financial performance with a people-first mindset makes his franchise a model for serving both community and team. 

Learning Award: Dan Liotta
Signal of Central and Northern Virginia  

We learn something every day by holding an open-minded approach to everything we do. 

Since joining Signal in 2023, Dan Liotta has made a significant impact. As a strategic and thoughtful leader, he delivers strong results and exceptional customer service by staying focused on sustainable growth. 

Dan is constantly seeking ways to improve his operations and bring more value to his market. His visionary mindset and commitment to continuous improvement remind us that growth begins with a willingness to learn.

Core Champion Award: Haris Johnson
Signal of Washington, D.C. 

While each award represents a specific value, the Core Champion brings them all together. 

Haris Johnson represents the full Signal mission in every aspect of his business. He makes a lasting impression in every interaction, from how he supports his officers to the passion he brings to serving clients. 

He is always exploring new ideas to improve his franchise and shows genuine appreciation for others across the network. His commitment to his team, his clients, and the future of Signal makes him a true Core Champion. 

Congratulations! 

These winners represent what makes Signal different. Our Core Values – Passion, Honesty & Integrity, Relationships, Serving, and Learning – are the foundation of how we operate and how we grow.  

To our 2025 Core Award winners: thank you for leading by example and for showing what it truly means to live the Signal mission.

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