20 Things To Consider For Your Security Guard Proposal

When you are asked to submit a proposal for providing security guard service it can be both an exciting and anxious time.  Your proposal can get you excluded from consideration, invited for a formal presentation, or even win you a contract.  Anytime that you submit a security guard proposal you can typically expect stiff competition.  Fortunately, a well written proposal can help set you apart from the crowd.  So when you are invited to submit a proposal always take the time to craft a great response to make the best of the opportunity.

Elements of a Good Security Guard Proposal

Like many things, writing a security guard proposal is a process.  Part of that process requires that you follow five basic steps: 1) Know your product; 2) Know your prospect; 3) Know what you want them to do; 4) Write the first draft quickly; and 5) Write all of the easy stuff first.  Following those five steps will get you well on your way to drafting a great response.  But In addition to those steps, you should also consider the following:
  1. Include a Table of Contents:  In most cases security guard proposals are fairly lengthy.  In order to make it easy for the reader to find the information that they are looking for be sure to include a table of contents.  If you are using Microsoft Word adding a table of contents is relatively simple.
  2. Page Numbers: In addition to a table of contents always include page numbers to help the reader easily find information.
  3. Internal Links to Information: If you are submitting an electronic copy of your proposal, having a table of contents will easily allow your reader to click a particular section within the table to be taken directly to that section.  Also consider linking other text as necessary.
  4. Electronic Copy: When feasible, always submit an electronic copy of your proposal.  It makes it easier for the recipient to share your proposal.
  5. Executive Summary: A typical security guard proposal can easily exceed 25 pages.  Make it easy on your reader by submitting an executive summary of the information that your proposal contains.  If they would like to read more they can proceed to the relevant section in the proposal…using the links that you provide (See #3).
  6. Write from the Customer’s Perspective: Many proposals are written from the security guard company’s perspective and talk about what the company brings to the table. Rather, the proposal should specifically address the reader’s concerns and state how you will make the reader’s job easier and property safer.
  7. The “I” Perspective: In addition to writing from the customer’s perspective, remove as many of the following words as possible: we, me, us, I.  Replace them with: you, your, yours.  Doing so will convey more concern for the reader’s needs.
  8. Customization: Although it is easy to just substitute names and use the same proposal repeatedly…DON’T.  Take the time to customize each proposal to address the specific needs of the reader. Show them that you understand their problems and explain how you will address them.
  9. Additional Solutions:  In addition to security guard service ALWAYS include other solutions that you are capable of providing.  Security officers cannot solve every problem, so have a way to address some of the reader’s other challenges.
  10. Pictures of Uniforms: Always include high-resolution images of your uniforms and officers.
  11. Technology: Incorporating technology into your proposal is a must.  Whether that technology is reporting software, tour tracking software, or remote camera viewing customers want their vendors to provide innovative answers to help solve their problems.
    security-guard-software
    Security guard reporting software
  12. Media: In the digital age you should be leveraging as many tools as possible to differentiate your company.  If you are submitting an electronic proposal, don’t forget to link to any video, graphic, or published content that you have developed.
  13. Documentation:  Although this is a no-brainer, be sure to include an up-to-date copy of your license, insurance, resumes, and all other relevant certifications.
  14. References: When asked for references, include as many as possible.  Always use references that are similar to the property that you are bidding on.  Also include a brief description of  a problem that you have solved at the property or an accomplishment there.
  15. Tell a Story: Remember that people love stories.  Try to include at least one story that highlights a problem that you were able to solve for a similar client.
  16. Be Brief: A common fault in many proposals is that they use more words than necessary to express an idea.  In your proposals you should ruthlessly edit them to remove unnecessary words, redundant expressions, and any clichés.
  17. Include Reports: Include samples of the reports that you will be providing to the client, including any summaries, analytics, metrics, or key performance indicators.
  18. Include an Appendix: In keeping with the concept of being brief, try to put supporting documentation in an appendix that the reader can refer to as necessary.
  19. Use a Response Checklist: You are probably submitting your proposal in response to a request for proposal (RFP).  If so, make a checklist of all the requirements outlined in the RFP and check off each.  Also reference each item with a page number where it can be found.security-guard-proposal-checklist
  20. Have Easy to Understand Pricing: Lastly, make sure that you include a breakout of your pricing, including hourly wages, to help the reader understand what they are getting.
Although a well written security guard proposal does not guarantee that you will win a bid, it does give you the chance to differentiate yourself from your competition.  So make sure that it is clear, concise, persuasive, and speaks to the reader’s needs. Are there other points that should be included on this list?  What are some of the mistakes that you’ve seen made in security guard proposals?  Please feel free to leave your comments below. Security Guard Proposal CTA By Courtney Sparkman
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