Locksmithing as a Profession

Ever had that sinking feeling of the door closing and realising your keys are still in there. Every looked at a lock and wondered whether it provides enough security? This is where the professional locksmith comes in; possibly the “un-discovered” 5^th Emergency Service! Every day thousands of people loose their keys, have keys stolen, are burgled, need to increase their security to meet insurance requirements, move house and therefore need locks changing or just need general lock maintenance. This applies not only to the general public but also to businesses.

Locksmithing as a Profession

The first thing that may spring to mind when thinking of locksmiths is cutting keys. Yes this is still an integral part of the business but it’s only one element.
The typical types of work done by a locksmiths includes

fitting locks to doors and windows
servicing and repairing locks and other safety devices
cutting copies of keys and making new keys
fitting combination locks and timing devices to safes
specifying and installing safes and security cabinets
providing a 24-hour call-out service to people locked out of their home or business
providing an emergency service after break-ins, securing doors, changing locks and resetting security systems
advising customers on the most suitable locks or safety devices for their needs.

A lot of locksmiths are also able to provide electronic security as well (e.g. access control, alarms, CCTV etc). Finally there are some locksmiths who become so specialised and well respected that they are asked to provide forensic locksmithing services by the police and insurance companies etc.

Various routes exist to being a locksmith. You may chose to start off working for an established locksmith company. Spend time serving an apprenticeship, learn from your colleagues and see whether it’s the industry for you. Alternatively, you may want to be your own boss and start up your own company immediately.

Although it will be tough at the beginning, and the hours will be long, the satisfaction of assisting people (and companies) with their security needs can be extremely fulfilling. The main thing is to get your skill levels up and ensure that you provide excellent customer service. It’s a lot easier to keep current customers than it is to go and get new ones! “Under promise and over deliver” as the old saying goes and remember you’re only as good as your last job.

Locksmiths can be mobile (working out of a van and probably with a workshop at home) or have a retail premises. They can sometimes specialise in specific domains such as Auto or safes. Earning potential can be good, but it all depends on the service offering you have and how good you are (both technically and commercially)!

Training

When looking for locksmithing training then make sure you look for a recognised training provider. There are unfortunately a large number of so called training companies out there who are locksmiths, running their business whilst doing a bit of training on the side (with the associated stoppages during courses whilst they “take care of business”. Look for a professional training school, preferably vetted by an external body such as City & Guilds. Ask around and get recommendations. Remember; there’s more to locksmithing than just opening techniques. Where possible look for training providers who offer exam based qualifications rather than just certificates of attendance – it will enable you to market yourself as a qualified locksmith.

Don’t limit yourself to looking for courses that immediately teach opening techniques; they may teach you to open some locks, but if you have the general knowledge of how locks work, then taking an opening course afterwards will enable you to apply your opening skills to a vast range of locks.

When comparing prices make sure you’re comparing like with like so as to avoid comparing what may be a 2 day course only with a 5 day residential course including accommodation and subsistence. Also beware of those that offer to sell you stock – are they truly independent? Are they charging less for the training course because they’ll make the money back by charging you for equipment and stock you may not need?

Remember, one training course doesn’t make you a locksmith. It’s an art that is learnt over many years, so look for somewhere that has further courses that are available once you’ve learnt the basics.

Finally, don’t forget about the ELCAS funding that may be available for you. Make sure the training provider you chose is registered as an ELC provider and involved with the enhanced learning credits scheme (more information can be found at www.enhancedlearningcredits.com).

Membership of an Association

If you’re keen to progress into the world of locksmithing then think about joining an association. Make sure it’s a not-for-profit one and provides you with plenty of membership benefits and opportunities for further learning. They should have a structured membership route, enabling you to progress your learning and rise up through the membership tiers as you learn. Remember, the public are very wary of any association that is a “pay you money – get your logo” type organisation so membership must mean something. Criteria for membership should be marketed rather than seen as “hurdles”. You can use them to show what you’ve had to go through to become a member when marketing yourself to your customers.
Finally it’s important to remember that membership of an association is only worthwhile if you make the most of your member’s benefits, so make sure you attend those regional meetings and exhibitions to help network and learn more about the latest products and techniques etc.