Independence: Determine whether your candidate is truly a full-time independent security consultant, not a part-time consultant or one that is tied to the sale of products or other services, such as a hardware salesman, guard contractor or private detective who professes to do it all. 

Credentials: Examine the consultant’s credentials.  Look for the “CPP” “Certified Protection Professional” designation from ASIS, or a Registered Member of the International Association of Professional Security Consultants.   

Knowledge: Determine whether the consultant has a good understanding of your type of facility, it's special needs, regulations and other unique aspects.

Prerequisites: Consider whether the consultant has the requisite skills, experience and body of knowledge to perform this assignment to a successful conclusion.

Methodology: Be certain that the consultant articulates a good understanding of the scope of your project and the methodology needed to carry it out successfully.

Insurance: Does the prospective consultant carry professional liability (E&O) insurance?  Not the state-mandated private investigator’s or guard providers Insurance, but Professional Liability Insurance with limits of liability sufficient to protect your assets, many do not.  Ask the question, and require a copy of their insurance certificate. 

Hire for Value: Often cheaper is more expensive. There is a broad range of professional fees charged by security consultants, ranging from $75.00 per hour to more than $250.00 per hour. Beware of the Bargain! A person who does not offer a total solution but only offers a list of tasks at a bargain rate may in fact never complete the real assignment, may not do it well, and it may cost you more.  Require a fixed fee and a work plan. Often times the high-end consultant is more cost efficient and cost effective, not only in terms of project cost, but in terms of value to your institution, because he may have a better understanding of your needs, and can therefore work more efficiently.

Hire a Partner, not an Accomplice: In the past, consultants were often hired to share blame in the event something went wrong with the project.  In today’s world of downsizing and the need for efficiencies and practical solutions, it imperative to establish a healthy relationship with a trusted consultant. 

Life after the Consultant: One fear security and safety directors have is addiction. Once a consultant is engaged, you get hooked. A good consultant will teach you what he knows, what he has learned and he will work with you to devise mechanisms to address present and future needs.  He knows when to move on, and when to be available for new challenges.

*Excerpts from “Six Laws for Choosing a Security Consultant”, 1997 by John A. Nolan III, CPP

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