The Camera Never Lies
Retailers today face an on-going challenge when it comes to protecting their merchandise and personal property. Sources of risk come in the form of waste, vandalism, errors, accidents and thefts by employees, vendors and shoplifters. In addition to the risk of actual inventory loss, other risks, namely exposure to civil litigation, lurk around every corner.
Prevention is the Answer
The merchant must develop a strategy aimed at discouraging inappropriate behavior. Strong deterrents such as clearly defined employee rules and regulations are a great starting point. The following is a general list of strategies to consider:
- Never hire an employee on the basis of their appearance or unverified background.
- Write out your expectations of performance and rules, and share them with employees.
- Know what your employees are doing. Employees do what you inspect not what you expect.
- Treat employees the way you want to be treated.
- Secure high-priced goods in stock areas.
- Count in-coming goods to ensure you get what you are paying for.
The Ultimate Deterrent
Surveillance systems, commonly referred to as security cameras, are the most powerful tool available to merchants for loss prevention. Progressive business owners, for years, have been taking advantage of technology such as closed circuit television cameras and deploying them so that their customers, vendors and employees know there are silent witnesses on guard at their stores at all times. Of all loss prevention tools available, surveillance ranks #1 because it provides pro-active and re-active benefits (i.e. serves as a deterrent, can assist in witnessing a crime, and provides historical documentation of a criminal event).
MonitorClosely.com, through its network of independently owned and operated franchise locations, provides state-of-the-art digital surveillance systems that take advantage of all the modern advancements in surveillance technologies.
Dollars and Sense
The bottom line for most business owners is profitability. According to annual loss rates from the University of Florida's National Retail Security Survey, business owners can expect to see a conservative 25% reduction in losses derived from the installation of a comprehensive digital surveillance system. To calculate your company's projected return on investment (ROI), please click here.
Customer Service Still Rules
Creating a climate in which all employees identify with goals of your business is critical for long-term success. Being able to monitor employee behavior and reward good behavior will build upon itself and improve morale and manifest in great customer service. Also, it's hard to steal when an employee is anxious to provide assistance, direction and advice.