Locksmith Occupation: Past and Present

If you have forgotten the keys inside the car or the home, then you will suddenly find the locksmith to become very important. These and many other situations, of normalcy and emergency, do require the locksmiths to be called to gain access through the problematic locks.  Since centuries, this occupation is concerned with the making of the locking systems. The practitioners of this art and science were required to maintain high confidentiality and secrecy in their works. They were required to not let the knowledge of their art to be given to others or even discuss the same with some other person. The occupational secrets flowed down from the lineage and the outsiders were not welcomed in this.

The essence of the principles, rules and regulations that were there for the locksmiths in the past are still being carried forward. In fact, these have been strengthened. The rules have become quite explicit and elaborate. The practitioners are still required to adhere by these. The modern day lock menders have to bear or carry a valid license, for them to operate in this field. This single piece of paper is a proof of their authenticity and their ability to provide their expert service in a total confidential manner. The license, therefore, assumes a lot of importance. It is, in a way, the assurance from a reputed authority (the license maker, which can be the government as well) that the person providing the services is fully capable, in all respects, to provide the locksmith services.

The confidentiality aspects, too, are very cared for. The elaborate rules and regulations are required to be followed during the course of training and even after the same. If there are verifiable and proven complaints against locksmiths, then their licenses can be revoked and in case of any delinquency, suitable action can be taken as per the law.

The revocation of the licenses can only make a locksmith unable to carry on the work with others. But, this still does not prevent him or her from using his skills in the wrong way. The fear of the law can be one of the deterrents from doing any misadventure but it is more important to be very selective in training the people. The present training institutes carry relaxed eligibility criteria since the people can take to this profession as a career, to earn their livelihood.

In this one and very important respect that the occupation can be taken up by anyone, there is a break away from the tradition. In the earlier times, the entry to this trade was quite restricted, confined only to the members of the family and lineage. But, the modern times have not been that restrictive. This could also be due to the higher demand of these professionals of this field in the present day world, the increase in the sale of security instruments and many other factors which have led to the emergence of many practitioners of this trade.   

Different situations in which you can use a locksmith

Security and confidentiality are the two most desirable qualities of a locksmith. Since this occupation has direct implications for the security of the people, the government makes licensing compulsory for the locksmiths to carry on with their works. Their training also focuses on this aspect quite substantially. Since the locksmiths might be required to operate in varied circumstances and in different times, the personal integrity of the person has to be of utmost importance.

Some of these situations in which the services are required are:

1.       Non-emergency situations: If your door gets locked, even if there is no emergency, it is still something which is unusual to have happened and might require quick operation. So, there is a definite sense of urgency, if not emergency, for it. These typically are:

a.       The locking of the keys inside the vehicle or the premises, which requires opening of the locks to be done.

b.      The keys have been damaged or the broken which requires rekeying.

c.       If something adverse has not happened, duplication of keys might be required to have one extra bunch of the same.

d.      Repair and replacement of the locking systems.

2.       Emergency situations: There could be some situations might require immediate locksmith services, like:

a.       Being caught up in a room set on fire.

b.      Being locked inside a malfunctioning elevator.

c.       A malfunctioning bio-metric or electronic access control device in an important establishment requires urgent mending.

d.      To help the law enforcement agencies in unlocking the doors and other access points to gain entry.

e.      To help gain access to your infant who has got locked inside and there is a chance that he or she may get harmed in some way.

Similarly, there could be many other situations which would require the locksmith services. There are specialist locksmiths for the residential, commercial, industrial and for the automotive locking or unlocking needs. This is not as if you can find the locksmiths only for the mending of the locks or keys, you can also use them for putting up new locks in the doors, windows, cabinets and other places.

Many of the companies dealing in the modern security systems employ them for installing the security systems like CCTVs, video cameras, break-in alarm systems and other such features in the premises. In that sense, they have a diversified role to play in different scenarios and situations.

Since this locksmith occupation sees the emergence of newer security products, there is always a need to keep updated about the new developments. They may get a call from a person who has installed the newest security system and is not able to find any person who knows about it. If you are able to mend it, you are laying the ground for future references to flow to you. Since, people change locks very rarely sometimes it might be two or more decade old locks that are required to be mended by the locksmith. So, there is a need to achieve expertise in both these types of locks.

Things to learn for a locksmith

Learning is an ongoing process, relevant for all ages and for all times. Learning is never complete. For some it is a continuous process and for some it is episodic. Even for people in an occupation, the process of learning could be continuous in the beginning and it might become episodic at the later stages. A locksmith is also always at a learning curve all the time. Right from the day he enters a training institute to get the training in the art of this trade to his days of active practice there are many things that a locksmith shall learn in order to be successful.

Some of the important things for him to learn are:

1. Technical expertise: A thorough understanding of both the basic and the advanced locking systems must be attained. Work comes first and it is the efficiency of the work and the level of his expertise that will determine his success or failure. Locksmiths shall better attain some specialisation in this occupation since there would be many doing the routine and normal activities. It is true that they might have to exert themselves a little more, stretch their finances a bit more but all this will be paid off well.
2. Customer service: What good is the expertise of the locksmiths if they are quarrelsome, argumentative, talkative or not coming in time when called? They are actually finished in their profession when they are not able to provide the professional and customer-oriented services. This is a trade where the business grows on the basis of references. If a locksmith spreads a bad name for himself then he is shrinking his market. The people would prefer others who may take a longer time or may not be that expert. Therefore, important that you know how to speak, what to speak and more importantly, how much to speak as you go to attend the call. So, you must watch out your manners and behaviour when you are on call.
3. Responding to emergency situations: The locksmiths business is not just a lock and key affair. There might be situations where the people would be in emergency and your timely and highly expert services might be required. For you to actually put up the best foot forward, making use of everything that you have learnt, might require total concentration which may be hard to put in the panicky situations. So, there is a need to learn to work in different sort of problematic situations without yourself being taken over by the heat of the circumstances.

One of ways in which this can be done is at a training institute which can simulate the conditions for training purposes. If not at training, then the same can be done with self-imagination of the troubled situation even when you are actually on a routine call and trying to work at pace with total focus.

Apart from calming yourself down, the locksmith shall be able to calm down the people around as well but not at the cost of his time for the work which is of utmost significance in these situations.

Steps to Resolving Doubts on the Locksmiths

People are not very sure when they call the locksmith. They do not know what kind of a person will turn out to open the troublesome locks. They are doubtful about the personal character of the person, his ability to open the locks and his likely behaviour when he comes. The doubts are quite natural. The apprehensions are based on the fact that there have been instances where a wrong person has turned out posing more problems than solving the already existing ones, that is of unlocking the locks. Therefore, whenever you require a locksmith, you need to make sure that all the correct steps are taken.

Selection Of The Right Source

You just can not afford to pick up any of the directory or the daily newspapers’ classified and make a call to get the locksmith. After all, these are only ads in these sources. You do not get to know anything about the profile of the locksmiths service providers. The best way would be to seek the references form the near and dear ones who would be able to advice you on which source to take the help from or, on the contrary, not to take help from. But, there is a good chance that even they might not have taken the help from someone till now. So, the next best medium of finding the right company would be the internet. This can help you to know in detail what all services are provided in what all areas, what is the profile or the specialisation of the locksmiths and whether these are available round the clock or not.

Make a call and ask for the service

After the selection of the right locksmiths service provider, you shall call to know in detail about the company. Do not hesitate to shoot your questions to the customer service. Clear all your doubts on crucial aspects of the business, like its legality, and when you are satisfied with their answers, do seek their prices for servicing your requirement. Negotiate on the labour charges, if the company tells you the same. There is always a room for it when talking business. There is a difference between the showing-up charges and the labour charges and the latter are often not possible to predict until the work to be accomplished is seen due to the complexity of the work.

Verify the credentials of the person

When the locksmith comes on your call, you shall verify his credentials and check for his licenses and ID proof. Normally, he shall be carrying the same with him all the time, and especially when he has come on a call. If he does not have it, you may not allow him to go ahead with the work. If he has all the relevant docs with him, you can even call back the service provider and let him have a word with the customer service. You shall again speak to the customer service. If everything seems fine, then you shall permit him to go ahead.

The arduous life of a locksmith

There is more to locksmith operations than you can imagine. The locksmiths will come, open the locks or mend the keys and then leave after taking the charges. The work would seem very simple and easy to do. What they do not recognize is that a lot of effort and labour goes into the making of a professional in this field. They might have been trained at a professional and recognized institute or under some experienced master. They would have spent thousands of dollars as the course fees and also for procuring their tools and equipment. They would have done all this knowing fully well that this is a lowly demanded work in the market.

Professional locksmiths are driven by passion for gaining expertise in this field. Without passion, you can not delve into the depths of the trade. 

Their interest in unravelling the mysteries of the locking systems keeps their interest alive. With every new lock or security system that comes to the market, the keen locksmith will examine it and if possible, try to find the ways to unlock it. Since, the person may not be having sufficient resources of his or her own to keep experimenting with the new security systems, this need is fulfilled by the training centres themselves who organize these updating session regularly. This actually means that he has to keep working on the locks and updating himself on the new ones. 

Some of the main services provided are the repair, replacement and re-keying of the locks; installation of the new locks and security systems like the computerised and the bio-metric access control devices, CCTVs, fire alarm, peep-holes, etc; and the opening of locks without re-keying. Their services are required for the residences, the commercial establishments, industries and even your cars, recreational vehicles, trucks and other automotives.

He can be called anytime of the day or night, in any type of weather condition and even on the weekends or holidays. Although there is no binding duty on him to provide the services 24×7, he might be propelled to do the same as his moral obligation to help the people. This round the clock service is also provided by reason of competition. As in other fields, the competition is quite stiff in this profession as well. Customer service and technical expertise are the two key determinants which can create the difference in bringing more business. 

The former holds a lot of importance since it helps in referral marketing of his or her services. When people require the locksmith services, they invariably ask their contacts for references of the locksmiths since it has direct security implications. The people trust the references provided by their contacts more than searching through other mediums. 

So, the locksmith shall build up this reputation for providing excellent customer service. And, this is no mean task. It does require a long period of consistently adhering to norms of excellent customer service, providing prompt services in normal and emergency situations to people in your area.

How to run a locksmith business successfully?

There are a number of factors which make for the successful running of a business. For the newly set up businesses, there is always a period of survival, growth and sustainability which comes in phases and it requires very skilful manoeuvring to stay in contention and ahead of others. And, if the business is of the nature of providing specialised services like that of the locksmith, then successful running requires even more skilful work. Here are some of the elements requiring considerable attention:  

1. The location: Where shall the business be located? Naturally, it shall be located at a place where there are greater chances of getting the customers, provided there is less competition from the other locksmiths in that area. Though this parameter is more important while setting up the business, it also impacts the running of the business.
2. Customer service: If your customer service is very good, then the people will call you rather than a thousand odd competitors in that area. This will hold good provided that your technical ability at the work, at the minimum, matches those of the others. You shall be very quick to respond to their calls. You shall also be able to comfort them in emergency situations while going about your work. Also, if you remain available even during the odd hours, then your service will be appreciated by the satisfied client. A satisfied client is the biggest asset of a locksmith since this business grows very rapidly due to references.
3. Fool-proof recruitment system: If you are running a locksmith agency wherein you require to recruit the locksmiths, then the success of your business depends a lot on the quality of your recruits. Professional, trained recruits with positive mental disposition, verified background checks and due licenses can be a little expensive to hire but will do a lot of good to the business in the long term. The untrained or unprofessional locksmiths with a negative attitude can harm your reputation and can even cause some legal action to be initiated against you.
4.  Keep updating: There are many new security and lock and keys systems which keep showing on the shelf spaces of the stores. If the locksmiths do not update themselves on these, they are digging the grave of their business. Since people are keen to install the new and the most secure locking systems in their premises, these fast outdo the traditional ones. So, periodic updating of the knowledge about the new systems is very important to meet the demands of the customers using these devices.
5. Advertise: Advertisements are very important for the fast growth of the businesses, including that of the locksmith. With low demand potential, this business is already on the edge and with a laid back, wait and watch attitude, even the survival will become very difficult. So, for success, you need to have the biggest market share and this is possible only with consistent and rightly directed marketing campaign.

Importance of locksmiths in different situations

A locksmith plays a very important role, especially in the emergency response situations. He is good at not only providing the access through the problematic locking systems but also installs the new security locking systems and devices.

A locksmith performs the functions which shall be held in extreme confidentiality. Being trained in the art and the science of providing the access to their belongings and responding to emergency situations, they help people in different situations by providing their expert unlocking services. They are also trained in the installation of the different types of locks and locking systems for various establishments, be it residential, commercial or industrial.

Locksmith in emergency situations

There might be times when their services are required by the people in emergency situations or when they are in a state of distress. There might be a child who has locked himself up in almirah or cabinet, or there might be an outbreak of fire in the place which could have jammed the electronic access device. There might also be a situation where the people are struck up in a lift/elevator.

The services of locksmiths would be required by the home owners, the police, the ambulance services, the fire department, the management of different establishments and other departments. Some of the organizations even employ them permanently for reason of their frequent requirement for different works.

A professional locksmith, trained in meeting the emergency situations, is able to provide the right solution much faster than the others. They understand the need of the hour and are able to quickly come to a decision on what step needs to be taken. Their role is not confined to their work alone. In distress situations, they shall also be able to comfort the panicky people. The focus has to be on the work at that time and verbal comforts shall be given while going about their job. Good locksmiths are extremely good at fast and appropriate response and that is why they have an edge over their competitors.

Locksmiths for installation works

The services of the locksmith are used generally for unlocking, re-keying or breaking the locks to gain access but the profession can also include the installation of security devices in different establishments. These could be the ordinary lock and keys systems or the complex electronic and computerised access control devices. These can also be the installation of the biometric, smart chip based and other types of devices or the CCTVs and video cameras with different functions. These installation experts go about their works in extremely efficient way.

These installations works are required in the areas where there are construction projects coming up. These upcoming regions of new development activity and the existing ones with high density of buildings provide the maximum scope for the locksmith operations. Therefore, the new entrants to this occupation usually prefer to set up shop in these areas.

There is no doubt that the locksmiths provide vital service and their role becomes even more important in emergency situations. By virtue of the nature of their work, they are required to maintain ethics of highest standards. They are required to be people of unimpeachable integrity and character. Add to it their customer service orientation and the dexterity of their works, and the success is not far behind.

Precautions a locksmith shall take while going about doing his work

There is plenty of readable material on the internet about the precautions to be taken while calling the locksmiths. But, how will the locksmith ascertain that the person who called him is actually the user or the owner of the asset?

If you were to search the internet for the tips and advices on how to find the right locksmiths company, there would be a thousand web pages dedicated to the same. There would also be considerable resources telling you what all precautions you shall take while calling the locksmith and supervising his or her operations. You might be advised to check the credentials of the person and also his license. All these resources presume that the genuine people only call up the lock operators and the problem is likely to emerge only at the front of the lock operators.

But, why is it that the locksmith only is at the centre of all these tips and advices. Why it is not presumed that the person who made the call could be having mala-fide intentions? What if the person who called is not the owner of the car, or of the any other asset for which he needs the access? This could be a very serious problem since the locksmith would be held responsible if anything goes wrong. The situation that the caller is a mala-fide person is less likely to emerge. But, it is a distinct possibility. This situation is more likely to arise at places where there is no one around to monitor or to ascertain the identity of the person as the user or the owner of a particular asset.

So, what all precautions shall a locksmith take while going about his work? Here are listed some of these:

1. On arrival to the site, the locksmith shall seek the verification of the fact that the person is the owner of the asset. He can even take some time to enquire about the same from the neighbours of the person.
2. If there are no neighbours, like when he is required to provide the services on a highway for a key having got locked inside, then the locksmith shall check the driving license of the person. He can even ask in whose name the car is registered. This can be cross verified from the papers of the car after opening the lock of the car.
3. To keep a record of the person whom he met while on the call, it would be good if he can manage to do some video recording of the person and the asset (especially number plate) or even take a few snaps of the same. This is very much possible since the mobiles have these functions inbuilt. IF any mishap happens later on, these can serve as a proof of his innocence and even help the law enforcement agencies to nab the culprit.
4. When it comes to opening the locks of a safe vault where some high value items might have been kept, the locksmith shall first check the purchase papers of the safe vault and cross check the name written thereon with the identity proof of the person.

This might look like the locksmith is being more of a detective but, these precautions are a necessary part of ensuring that there is no problem.

Scale of the locksmith operations

A locksmith is a person who opens up the locked doors, cabinets and other entry points and some of them might also be installing the new lock and key systems, traditional or modern. The careers of locksmiths can either take the way of the apprenticeship training or he/she can get themselves enrolled in a recognized and popular training institute. After the course, they can either get employment in the various industries which require their help, like the security companies or they can even set up their own businesses.

The locksmith business can be operated at various levels. The scale of operations of this business can be determined by considering various factors. Some of these factors are:

1. Own interest and management capabilities: Some who would prefer operating in only some parts of the country. Some others might be operating countrywide. All this depends on how keenly you follow the expansion plans and your ability to administer the operations on a wide scale.
2. Demand assessment: There might not be any primary or secondary data available on how much these operations are in demand. The assessment of the demand has to be derived from indirect sources of information, like the extent of commercial and residential activity taking place, the number of automobiles in a particular region, etc. The information of these is available from a number of sources.
3. Requirements due to nature of business: The locksmith services are not required very frequently by the people. Therefore, to make a reasonable beginning, the business might be required to be operated at a bigger scale. Some might opt for diversified activities like the residential, commercial, automotive and others. Some others might be going for bigger geographical operations at the national or the regional levels. So, it would not be surprising for you to find multi-location locksmiths services being provided by many big companies. There are also internet based companies which provide multi-location services.
4. Availability of the lock operators: For a single-handed locksmith operation, the non-existence of the locksmiths in a particular area could be a good omen but for the internet based services this may not be a good prospect in that area.      Licensed lock operators might also not be there or these may not be verifiable.

The diversification of functions and area of operations is dependant on the considerations, some of which are mentioned above. Some might prefer to go in for adding more services to their offerings whereas some might prefer staying with some specialised service but would launching these on national scale. Determining the scale of operations is a very important business decision and this depends on the assessment of the demand and supply functions of the market and your own resource assessment. This resource assessment also includes the human resource, the finances and your managerial capability among others.

In the locksmiths business, it is important to imbibe confidence in people and develop the reliability of your services, so efforts shall be directed towards meeting that end.

Locksmiths know how to operate on the different types of door locks

The locksmiths are trained on a number of different locking systems. These could range from the traditional lock and key systems to the most modern keyless systems.

Locks are the mechanical, electronic or biometric devices which are used to fasten a door or other similar objects. These require some kind of keying for them to open up. The traditional keys are mechanical whereas the modern ones could also be electronic ones. A locksmith gets to know about these different locks and key systems from the training institute which he joins. He can also learn the same from his senior or mentor or from his practical work experience.

Some of the main types of locks which are known to locksmiths are:

1. Privacy lockset: This type of lock has a locking button on the inside knob and there is no device to put in
the key on the outside. These are more appropriately used for maintaining the privacy, rather than being used for the security purpose.
2. Passage lockset: These are used inside the building, especially when there is a need to connect two rooms or passage to some hallway. These feature the non-locking knobs on each side of the door.
3. Dummy knob: These are just for decorative purposes and do not turn because these do not have any latching mechanism.
4. Entry lockset: This is the one which makes use of the locking knobs on both sides of the door, from the inside and from the outside. The locksmiths are familiar with the two variants of these locks. In one, the door might be latched from inside and it requires a key to open it from outside. In the second variant, both the locking and unlocking can happen from both the sides. These provide medium level security for the homes or offices
5. Deadbolt locks: Expert locksmiths generally considered these ones to be the safest bet for the security of the doors and hence, of the facilities. These do not have a spring to operate and these can be operated only manually. These also come in two different models. In single-cylinder ones, there is a turn button in the inside and is operated with a key from the outside. In the two cylinder ones, the turn buttons and the keying options exists each side of the lock.
6. Surface mounted locks: The locks which have been discussed above are fitted into the door frame. There might be some others which can be mounted on to the surface of the door and the bolt slides into a surface mounted strike. These are usually placed on the inside of the door.
7. Night Latch: This makes use of the large, spring loaded latch which automatically locks the doors when the door is closed. This is usually placed on the inside surface of the door.
8. Keyless entry systems: A locksmith is also provided training on the most modern key less entry systems. These are opened by entering the codes, or by bar code reading.
Professional training on all these and many more types of the locks and locking systems is what makes the difference to the practice of this profession by different locksmiths.

Importance of regularly updating of the locksmith

Continuous enhancement of skills and knowledge of a locksmith is essential for him to help people, who use advanced locking systems, when they need them.

You might be wondering as to what is the need for a locksmith to keep updating himself or herself on a regular basis. You might be wondering about this because of the ignorance of the role and importance of this occupation. If you have an electronic locking system and it gets dysfunctional, then you will have to call for a locksmith to get it done right. What would be your reaction if the locksmith is not able to open your door, or worse still, he damages some other articles in the process? You will require some other person for this work who is more conversant with the latest electronic security systems and knows how to open the same without any ancillary damage.

Skill upgrading is, therefore, very important for locksmiths. There has been continuous development of the new types of locking systems, including the electronic and biometric ones. There has been requirement of more and more robust access control and security systems for various purposes. This demand has also been for the locking systems. The companies in the forefront of making these locking devices are continually researching and coming out with newer more complicated systems to meet the increasing requirements of advanced security systems.

Now, if you have these installed at your place and for some reason these begin to create problems, then you will have to call a locksmith, who knows precisely how to mend it, for solving the problem. If the locksmiths do not keep pace with the latest developments in the security systems, and particularly in the advanced locking devices, then the unbridgeable gap will come up in this crucial service segment.

The regular updating is also helpful for the locksmith to earn more income. Since he ha invested time and money into the improvements in his skills, he is rightfully entitled to have a bit higher prices for his services. Even the customers will not hesitate to pay him higher sums since very few people would have kept themselves abreast with the latest developments. So, this enhancement of skills will create the crucial difference between him and his competitors. He will be far ahead of the others in this field and in his ability to do more specialized works.

From where does this skill enhancement be done? The training institutes, which train the prospective locksmiths in this work, are also the ones which organize the regular training programs for them. These Continuing Professional Development programmes (CPDs) are organized from time to time for their registered members. There might be some membership fees for becoming their members and also some qualifying criteria which must be met. After the successful training, the participants are usually given some certificate to establish the same. These certifications are very helpful for them to convince the customers for their appropriateness for the work.

Besides the skill enhancement through technical training in different aspects of this trade, it is also important to keep updated on the legislative aspects. The changes in the laws and its import on this occupation need to be conveyed to the practitioners so that they know what requires them to do and what not.

Evolution of Locksmiths

The occupation of locksmiths has evolved considerably over the years. This occupation is a perfect combination of art and science. 

In the centuries gone by, the art of designing locks and keys was a mysterious business and the trade passed within the families of locksmiths from generation to generation. People having keen interest in history point out that the first lock was designed over 4,000 years ago in Egypt. Security requirements made the business come under the influence of science and technology and we have very sophisticated gadgets today that go up for sale as locks. All places, residential, commercial, industrial or any other make use of the latest security systems to keep their belongings under secure locking conditions that do not allow a single compromise on standards.

Locksmiths of the yore actually made the lock mechanism, toiling for hours, doing much filing work to saw the levers that ensure security when the lock is operated. Today, due to mass production of locks only a few expert locksmiths work as engineers and take up lock-making work. Most locks are repaired by replacing the parts or are upgraded. Safes and strong-rooms of institutions like banks need impregnable containers and to this day large safety vaults are custom made and built at a huge cost. That which keeps these things more unique is the security concern and the most important need to prevent the manufacture of duplicate keys that can open them easily.

After mass production methods came into vogue, the craft broke into two distinct groups, lock makers and lock repairers. The term "locksmith" has come to refer to the service man rather than the manufacturer of locks. Anybody who has good experience in security and ample knowledge on locks and keys can start his own business.

We find quite a number of retail stores offering to fit keys to automobiles to help owners who have lost them. Houses and offices are also sometimes in need of locksmith help to develop higher quality locks and management of access. Most locksmiths have taken up electronic lock servicing, such as making keys for transponder equipped vehicles and access control systems protecting individuals and assets of many large institutions.

A locksmith is duty bound to develop appropriate combinations of equipment and practices to create "security layers" which totally keep off an intruder or attacker. Additional skills and tools come at an expense to the customer who is ready to accept the price because it is a “now or never” opportunity to safeguard his property using the locks.

Locksmiths may have their own workshops, or be mobile (using a vehicle), or be employed by an institution, or even by an investigating agency (forensic locksmiths). He or she may specialize in one aspect of the skill, such as an automotive lock specialist, a master key system specialist or a safe technician.

Locksmiths have different levels and areas of specialization. Some locksmiths are adept to operate in emergency situations while others might be performing ordinary tasks, which are important nevertheless. Whatever be the level of specialization, they are required to have licenses for either taking employment or starting their own business.

The marketing methods of a locksmith

Like any other business person, a locksmith has to promote or advertise about the business. For this purpose, he might make use of different methods of marketing. Some of the most common ones among these and their respective benefits are mentioned in this article.

Taking up the business of doing the locksmith operations is no mean task. The same basic rules are applicable to this business as well, as are the ones to other businesses. Marketing of their business is a crucial part of getting maximum market share, thereby increasing the revenues. In order to achieve their business goals, some of the most common marketing methods employed by the locksmiths are:

1. Door-to door advertising: Since the initial service calls are expected to be received from the local areas only, the locksmith would be well advised to carry out the door-to-door advertisement of its services. He or she can employ a few people on hourly rate basis to distribute the pamphlets or the business cards to each and every household, office, industry or any other establishment.
This method offers him or her total control over the selection of the right target areas for advertising. The only extra effort needed would be to supervise the same.

2. Direct mailing: This a very good way of advertising in a little far off areas but which can be covered in your advertising campaign. By taking the addresses and names of the people from the community associations of those areas, you can send off the mails to these areas by regular posts. This not going to be a one-time affair. Rather, the same needs to be followed consistently over a period of time.
Some would even recommend the email method to be used for this purpose. But, developing an emailing list is not going to be easy and it will take a lot of time. Further, the approach of marketing is on regional basis and it will be difficult to know the email Ids of all the people in all the houses in a particular area.

3. Newspapers: There are two ways of using the newspapers for advertising your locksmith operations. One could be by way of putting the inserts in the newspapers and getting these distributed. Another could be by way of giving the ads in the newspapers. Those newspapers shall be chosen which have good readership in the target segment. If it is the high-income people, then the national newspapers shall be selected. If the target market is of low income groups, then local newspapers might be a better bet.

4. Seminar Sales: You can make a beginning from the local community groups and associations. You can even go to a church, schools, colleges and other such places where there is aggregation of people to tell the people about locksmith operations in general and about your services in particular. You might have to advertise your seminar in the newspapers and make arrangements for holding the same with the venue owners.

5. Tele-calling: This is another effective way of marketing your services. You can call the people to inform them about the services. Even sending the SMS messages can be helpful since these can be retained in the mail box of the phones of the people.

Getting mobile with a van is good option for the locksmiths

By providing services with the help of a mobile van, the locksmith improves its quality of service. It also helps him to make his business grow many folds.
The locksmiths of the yesteryears remained confined to their stores, most often small workplaces. They would come in the morning and be there all through their work hours. The attempt to reach out to the customers was non-existent, as a matter of practice. This was a very dull and boring way of functioning for the locksmiths. With increasing competition, the need to provide good service to the customers has made the locksmith to use a more proactive approach and reach out to customer. An important part of this strategy is to make use of some automotive, a car, a van or a two-wheeler, for this work.
Here are some of the main advantages offered by being mobile:
• Save the money that might have gone into the rentals of having a shop or having to buy a retail store. What is more important is to reach the place in time. The chances of receiving the call are more than the customer coming to the store. So, getting mobile shall be ahead in the order of priority for a locksmith.
• Carrying the tools and equipment is easier. Having a van is beneficial since you can keep all your tools and equipments in it. Other automotives might not be able to accommodate so many tools
• Reduce the response time. By being mobile, locksmiths are able to go on the call in the least possible time. The customers are likely to be very happy for the service provided.
• This can give your business a very speedy start. Along with other modes of marketing like door-to door selling, direct mail advertising, newspaper ads, etc, this facilitates to speed up your business prospects.
• Demonstration effect: There is always a chance to take higher charge when a locksmith comes in a van. Coming in a van could demonstrate that he takes his business and work quite seriously.
• Increase agility: There are greater chances of your developing a laid-back attitude if you are a shop-sitter. Being mobile means that you are more likely to explore more chances of business, may be even reaching out to newer areas, increasing your network of contacts and increasing your chances of finding new clients.
• Makes it possible to provide the services even in times of rough weather conditions. There might be some situations when other automotives may not be ridden for providing services to the customers. In such situations, the van is very advantageous.
So, there are obvious benefits of getting a van and using it for the locksmith operations. This is a good way of delivering the prompt, round-the-clock and at-the-spot services, carrying all your paraphernalia. The better quality of customer service will reward your efforts to increase the business. And, the van is going to help you in that endeavour. Far more than those competitors who have preferred investment in having a shop a first.

Nature of employment for the locksmiths

Seeking to make a career in locksmith occupation is not easy, just like any other career. It is your interest in the work which will hold the ground for you. After being trained in the work in some institute, you come to know about the various tools and equipments to be used in this profession. But, this is the same for each of the candidates learning this art in those institutes. The difference between them lies in their ability to pick up the skills of the work within a reasonable time frame. After completing their training and honing their skills in the labs of the institute, the time for the real world practical action arrives. The locksmiths have the following options of employment available to them. Which one of these they select will depend on their career planning.

1.       A Job at a locksmith company or under some individual: Many of the freshly trained locksmiths prefer to take up some job to work as apprentices under some experienced people of this trade. There are companies devoted to this work only that dispatches the lock-workers working under them to the clients.

2.      A job at a security company: A company which deals in security appliances and their installation might require the services of the installation experts. These security companies require their services to install the CCTVs, the electronic access control devices and many other similar services.

3.      A job at the real estate development company: A company which is engaged in the development projects of residences and offices can also take the services of the locksmiths for the installation works of locks and other security apparatus.

4.      Self-employment: The more confident beginners might take a direct hit at the business. After getting the license to operate as the locksmith, they might decide to go for their own business after making due assessments of their resources, market requirements and being confident about their skills.

The work of locksmiths, whether job or business, requires hard work and patience. They need to have very good customer service attitude and be ready to help the people even at odd hours. Patience is also very important especially if you have decided to do the business. It may not be as rewarding in the beginning but, as your popularity increases, so will the work.

The requirements of a job might be very different from a business. There would be some restrictions on the work methodologies as per the principles of the company for which you are working. There can also be limitations on exercising a personal choice of operating in a particular area. The payments, while at job, are usually hourly with a minimum number of hours being out in per week. There are no such restrictions if you opt for the business, but it can be extremely arduous and will require initial investments of thousands of dollars.  The risks are higher in business and, therefore, most of them do not try it out as their first option.

The Don’ts of calling a locksmith

When you have to call a locksmith, there are some precautions which you must follow and certain things or actions which you shall not do. Here is what all shall be done to get the locksmith to work efficiently
You have got your keys locked inside the car and you have to call locksmiths to open the same. There can be many similar situations when the lock-operator is to be called. The profession is very sensitive and the therefore, you have to extra cautious while calling him. There are some dos which you must do and some don’ts which you best avoid. Here are some don’ts which you shall take note of:

1. Do not ignore the importance of calling the right locksmith: IF you do not want you pricey car or the recreation vehicle or even the beautifully carved out imported door of your home to get damaged, then you must sure that you have the right person who is an expert in opening the locks of that particular object.
Some of the locks might require real expert people to get opened. Therefore, looking of ‘any’ locksmith can be quite dangerous.

2. Do not forget to make identity checks: Do not believe that the locksmith is an angel, full of virtues. There have been many cases when the locksmiths have belied the ethos of their profession and used their skills in a negative way. So, you do require some caution on your own part. You just cannot afford to be complacent in this regard and reduce the vigil.

Even if the situation is emergent and you are anxious or are in a state of panic, you must calm down and reduce the panic levels so that you can perform the identity and the professional expertise checks on the person who is visiting you.

3. Do not leave the place when he is working: Keeping vigil on the top of your mind, you must never turn your back on the locksmith while he is working on the locks.

4. Do not leave the remade keys with him: If he is rekeying the locks and making new ones, then you must not leave the keys with him. All the keys he has worked on shall be taken back from him. There might be one final key which he would give you and there might be some other keys which he would have used which did not get the lock imprint correct. Even these keys shall be taken from him.

5. Do not be emotional or helpless: Although the locksmiths are duty bound to help you out emotionally even while they work, they might not be very much kind in this respect. Therefore, you do not look emotional. Otherwise, the chances that he can take advantage of your situation and try to make more money.

6. Do not disturb him while he is absorbed in his work.
Therefore, it is always suggested that you shall not panic even in the most emergency situations and be good at observation of the actions of the locksmith, keep your mind focussed on his works and always be calm and composed. By doing so, you can prevent the unnecessary damage that he can do to your assets intentionally or unintentionally.

Watch your behaviour with the locksmith

There are times when you need to have the services of a locksmith. You might have forgotten your keys in the cars or the home and the door get locked accidentally. There might be a malfunctioning locking system which is preventing you to have access. You might have lost the keys or got these damaged or broken. In all these situations, the common thread is of the lock not opening or closing.

These situations can make you feel very frustrated and helpless. In these situations, the locksmith needs to be called. You can find one through the references from the friends and relations. The other ways of finding the right locksmiths could be searching through the directories in the print and the online format, seeking help from the professional bodies of locksmiths or using the search engines of the internet to find the reliable person or company.

After finding the source, you need to find the person who specialises in your type of works, and has verifiable credentials and proofs of establishing his identity, place of residence, competence in this field and license of operation. These are important steps to be taken as this profession directly affects the safety and security of the people. So, the people taking their services must be doubly sure about the authenticity and professionalism of the person.

When the locksmith comes to your site, you might be extremely frustrated or, if the situation is one of emergency, then you might even be panicky. The condition of helplessness will also be telling from your body language. You need to calm down and regain your composure as the lock-operator begins his work. If you are in a highly perturbed state, then you might commit the following mistakes:

• There are good chances that you do not verify the identity and the credentials of the locksmith as diligently as these are needed.
• There are also the chances that your condition of helplessness is used by the locksmiths to hoodwink you into paying a much higher sum than was earlier perceived or agreed upon.
• If you get angry with him for one reason or the other, then you are giving him the handle to beat you with. He might intentionally do more ancillary damage. He might be entertaining grudges and will do more harm to the doors, safes, cabinets or even your pricey car.
• You may not be able to negotiate with him in a better way, if you are in a state of panic.
• You might also disturb him constantly in his work that requires concentration.
• Abusive or critical behaviour may make him refuse you the services. He might simply leave the place.

Therefore, for all these reasons, it is important that you retain your calm and let him do his work without any disturbance. You can make the most out of his services in this way. Locksmiths are important resources in critical times and they expect a non-interfering behaviour from the client, apart from their services charges.

A glimpse into the Locksmith Code of Ethics

A Locksmith is the person who is required to open up the locks in the absence of the keys and is also required to install the new ones. The profession directly concerns the safety and security of the people and therefore, a professional code of ethics is generally required to be adhered to. The knowledge about the same is imparted during the training or when he joins the some professional body of locksmiths. This adherence to the code is besides the license which a professional locksmith is required to have.
What are the essential provisions of the code of ethics that he is required to follow? Some of these are outlined below:
1 . Ethics to be followed while on training: When the locksmiths get enrolled for getting the training from an institute, they are given the instructions on the ethics to be followed by them while they are on training. Some of these are:
a. The locksmiths are required not to sell any of their tools, picks or special equipment to any person other than a bona fide supplier or a trading locksmith.
b. The information about the lock neutralising shall be kept a secret and confined only to closed forums. It shall not be discussed in public or in any public forum.
c. None of the members are allowed to impart training to the others independently. Only the authorised training centres are allowed to do so.
d. Members are required not to engage in acts of pilferage of any kind or of copying the data from the institute resources without the permission of the institute.
2. Ethics to be followed with respect to other members or professionals of the same trade
a. The locksmiths shall encourage loyalty in this profession by acting in a fair, business-like manner with all people including the fellow members.
b. Not to deride or undermine the methods of practising of other members. If there is a complaint or you believe that some member has acted in a way which is against the ethos of this profession, then the same shall be brought to the notice of the training institute or the licensing authority or other appropriate body.
3. Ethical conduct while dealing with the clients:
a. The locksmith is required to analyse the security problem impartially and offer the best possible advice to the client
b. The locksmiths shall offer non-destructive options of opening the entry and only in rarest of rare cases, where the best practice demands the use of the destructive option, shall it be employed. Prior consent of the client is mandatory in this respect.
c. They are required to maintain the dignity of their profession and they shall refrain from using improper or unprofessional methods.
d. If they feel that some of the entry methods can be copied, then the same shall not be carried out in public view. The locksmith shall ask for secrecy in this respect.
All these ethical codes are designed to keep a moral check on the locksmiths from engaging in distasteful activities.

The modern Locksmith business: What does it entail?

If you go by the literal meaning of the word ‘locksmith’, it would ideally be suited to mean that the person is engaged in the occupation of lock making. This was true long time back when locksmithing operations were essentially meant to lock making only. The locksmiths of those times were the experts in the science and the art of making locks and keys. By the very nature of their professional, they were required to follow secrecy in their work as their moral duty.

In the present world, the true locksmithing operations are carried out by the companies which are focussed at developing not only the locks and keys but also new and modern locking systems for different uses. Whom we normally refer to as ‘locksmiths’, are actually the people who are lock-breakers or lock-installers. So, the so called present day locksmiths are mainly involved in two types of activities-lock breaking or installing a new lock.

For carrying out their operations in a legal way, the professionals are required to obtain a due license for the same. It is strange that in the most liberal of democracies where the licensing requirements have long been done away with, this occupation remains one of the very few that requires a license. The reasons are quite obvious. These have to do directly with the safety and security of the people. A locksmith who is good at breaking the locks can also use this art and science to compromise the safety and security of people and their assets.

Licensing is one of the ways in which the locksmith is going to establish his or her credibility. There are proper verification checks about the personal details, their occupational expertise and even the background of their character. People are more likely to call a licensed locksmith for help and they can even ask for higher rates for latter’s services.

Locksmiths not only make new keys or unlock the doors and windows, they can also supply you new locks and install devices like the CCTVs, surveillance cameras and other similar security instruments. Their business is diversified and this diversification is essential to do, if they have to survive in this business where there is less demand.

Diversification in this occupation can also happen in other ways. One of the ways is to cover a range of facilities or assets and do not confine oneself to just one type of assets. So, you can have the locksmiths for the residences, commercial spaces, industrial spaces and for different types of automobiles. One more level of diversification could be in terms of specialization in the technologies. So, a locksmith who knows how to open the high-security locking systems or even an electronic lock stands a better chance of earning good money rather than the one who is good at opening traditional locking systems only.

Those who are willing to make it their career shall weigh a number of factors and once decided, they shall work whole-heartedly to establish this. Being a member of professional locksmith bodies helps a great deal to get business.

Shall locksmith business be the second occupation, not the first?

There is always some confusion in the minds of people who wish to enter the locksmith occupation. This confusion is primarily due to the ability of this business to earn a reasonably good livelihood for them and their family. There could be a few inspiring role models who are doing well and, at the same time, there could be a number of failed locksmiths as well. It is true that this occupation is taken up by people who are either fascinated by the lock and the key or do not have sufficient funds to enter some trade supposedly better.

Before you take up or disown this occupation altogether, here are a few guiding principles which shall help you in arriving at a decision:

1. The chances of getting the business in the area. Naturally, if the place is densely populated and there are a number of buildings, structures and automobiles then there is always a greater chance of getting more business.
2. The number of locksmiths operating in the area: If the region is already well developed for a long time, then there are good chances of finding the locksmiths in good numbers. If it is a new developing area, then there are more chances of early bird taking a rather bigger share of pie.
3. Do you have any specialization?: If you are a specialist at some locksmith service which others can not provide and there is a demand for the same, then you have a much better chance of making more money and living better than others.
4. Check for the government regulations: The regulations regarding the licensing provisions of the locksmith business as well as the tax implications shall be duly considered before opening the business.
5. Are other options feasible to undertake?: If you feel that some other options are feasible along with the locksmiths occupation in the beginning, then there is no stopping you from the same.
6. Can you diversify in related fields? The nature of this occupation is that if you have basic skill set, then there are a number of competitors and even the fees are very basic. So, if you have the means to diversify into related fields like installation of security systems, you stand a much better chance of increasing your incomes.
7. Have you analysed reasons for failures of other locksmiths? If you see failures, you must think why they failed? If the reasons for their failure were within their control for rectification, then you shall not blame the occupation as such. Taking things on face value without giving these a proper thought could be distorting you from the right path.

There is nothing wrong in taking locksmith as a second occupation, if you can manage to attend to emergency calls anytime during the day or night. Second occupation shall not translate to becoming the secondary occupation in practice, being done half-heartedly. You shall give it its due chance, if you have indeed decided to make it into your profession.