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Rise to the Occasion
In the face of any crisis, a leader must rise and meet any challenge head-on, with commitment, a positive attitude, and lead their team with the same level of intensity that matches the gravity of the crisis being faced.
On the morning of July 2, 2012, a fire completely destroyed Standard’s office and warehouse. Everything—in just a few hours—was gone. What to do? Well, standing around was not an option. In the face of this catastrophe, teamwork was the order each morning when we arrived. There was no complaining, just a “can-do” attitude displayed by everyone.
Within twenty-four hours, our computer, telephone, and project management systems were restored. A REALTOR found a building for us before the end of the next day, and a close contact in the office supply business delivered all new furniture for all the offices the day after that. We were even able to rent a shuttered sheet metal shop, including equipment, right around the corner from our rented office. Within 72 hours, our operation was essentially back up and running.
About a week after the fire, we had a security fence installed around the remains of our original location. On the fence, we had a banner installed that stated that Standard was back in full operation in a temporary location and would return to that former site in newly rebuilt facilities on March 1, 2013. In fact, we moved into the new facility on February 18, about two weeks ahead of schedule.
The entire experience was a testament to the character of every Standard teammate. It was also one of the greatest examples I have ever experienced of a team Rising to the Occasion!