You’ve been preparing for this event all year—you were able to secure a celebrated jewelry designer for a trunk show at your location. You’ve sent out the invitations to your premier clients, arranged for hors d’oeuvres and beverages, advertised in local media, and arranged to have extra staff on hand.
You’ve thought of everything…almost. Before you open the doors to your event, there’s another critical consideration requiring your attention: The security of your staff and customers during the event, which may include hiring a security guard.
Why a guard? Why now? (You’ve never had one before, and things have been fine!) Remember that you’ve publicized your event widely (hopefully), so people have an idea of the value and breadth of merchandise that will be there, and see that your event will be held after-hours, rendering it especially interesting to jewelry criminals. Basically, thieves will anticipate crowds to duck in and around, and are guessing that your staff will be distracted.
How do you find the right company and person, and then work with an manage a security professional? Here’s your checklist:
- Whenever possible, contract with a uniformed, armed, off-duty police officer for your event.
- Attempt to secure someone who is familiar with the jewelry industry and with your location.
- Have a meeting before the event so you and the guard can form a plan for security. Plan on giving the guard a tour and a diagram of the setup for the event. Discuss where you feel your location could be the most vulnerable. Be open to suggestions from the security professional.
- The guard should be present during the setup for the event and should remain through closing. These are the most vulnerable times for you and your staff.
- If the designer or the designer’s representative is traveling with the line, consider having a guard present when that individual arrives. The guard should also be present when the individual leaves and should provide an escort, if possible.
- If working through a guard service, make sure to check references and confirm that the guard service carries appropriate insurance coverage and the necessary permits.
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