A Guide To Reducing Theft In Your Business (From Inside + Out)

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A Guide To Reducing Theft In Your Business (From Inside + Out)-Chispa MagazineA friend of ours recently had a huge problem with workplace security. She noticed that hundreds of dollars were going missing every week. She also noticed that certain products and equipment were going missing. After a thorough investigation, she found out that some employees had been stealing from her. Not only that, but her shop had been victim to shoplifters. There’s a reason why things didn’t quite add up. Unfortunately, she had no idea how long this had been going on. It just goes to show how easy it is to miss obvious bouts of theft taking place under your nose.

This can happen to any business. From a shop to a construction site to a warehouse to a photo studio. Every business is vulnerable from theft, both inside and outside the business. Now, we never like to assume our employees are stealing from us, but it’s important that you entertain a certain level of suspicion. Not only that, but you must protect your business premises from external intruders. For a small company, theft can cripple your finances. Even if you’re insured, it can take time for that money to come through. Without further ado, here’s how you can reduce theft in your company.

Security technology. Start by investing in good, modern security technology. Everything from CCTV cameras to motion sensors will help protect your business premises. We also advise business owners to use security tags on their bigger, more expensive equipment. It’s essential for factory or construction site safety. In these cases, you have large areas of access with lots of expensive machinery. It’s crucial that you monitor the site, and keep track of your most lucrative stock and equipment.

Take care when hiring. As we explained in the introduction, it’s not uncommon for employees to steal from their company. In fact, one in forty retail workers were fired for this offence last year. There are all sorts of things that contribute to internal theft. But, it all starts with hiring the right people. Particularly in retail, bars, and catering, employers are quick to hire new staff. Turnovers are fast and immediate starts are required. Unfortunately, this leads to poor screening of new applicants. Make sure you take the time to hire trustworthy employees.

Check in/check out systems. Going back to construction sites, factories, and warehouses, it’s important that all equipment is accounted for. One of the best ways to do this is with a check in/check out system. If your employees need a certain set of tools or equipment, they must check it out from a trustworthy official. You can then keep a record of exactly who was in possession when the item went missing. Construction sites operate this system all the time when using bespoke tools and equipment.

As you can see, there are all sorts of problems that threaten your business from inside and out. Make sure you take a cautious and suspicious approach to your security. After all, it’s your profits and reputation on the line.

Photo by Jeff Hopper

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Milo Senalle

Milo Senalle

Managing Editor at Chispa Magazine
As one of the managing editors of Chispa Magazine, Milo Senalle is the go-to man for all things technology, ethical, and financial concerns. Providing laughs with his style of writing and problem-solving techniques, Milo is a voice of reason among the girly staff at Chispa. Married with children, living in Atlanta, he works 24/7 on becoming a man of courage and believes honor begins at home.

Milo Senalle

As one of the managing editors of Chispa Magazine, Milo Senalle is the go-to man for all things technology, ethical, and financial concerns. Providing laughs with his style of writing and problem-solving techniques, Milo is a voice of reason among the girly staff at Chispa. Married with children, living in Atlanta, he works 24/7 on becoming a man of courage and believes honor begins at home.