The offer on the house was accepted on Wednesday morning (January 27, 2010). Later that afternoon while I was on the phone, I heard a VERY LOUD explosion; kind of like when a transformer on a telephone pole blows up, which happens around here every now and then (2-3 times a year).
But this was MUCH louder. It startled me it was so loud. It sounded like a bomb!
About 20 minutes later, I heard a loud knock on the front door. I opened the door to find a S.W.A.T. (Special Weapons And Tactics) officer dressed in full military fatigues: assault rifle hanging around his shoulder, helmet, the whole enchilada. I had to wonder, “Why was he knocking on my door?!”
He asked me if I’d heard the explosion. I said yes. He assured me that it was not a bomb or terrorist attack. He said it was a distraction device (concussion grenade) for the neighbors who live directly behind us as part of a drug bust! After which, they went up and down the street telling everyone that everything was okay and not to worry.
Their unmarked S.W.A.T. van was parked right in front of my house. I asked if I could take a few pictures because seeing is believing! He said fine. I thanked them for their service to our country.
Talk about an omen/justification for moving!
What struck me was that they came to my door with the intention of calming any fears I may have had regarding the explosion. As far as I know there is no law that says they have to do that. I’m choosing to believe they learned from past experiences and have adopted a policy that anticipates the consequences of their actions. In other words, they acted preemptively to increase efficiencies.
What efficiencies?
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A reduction in the number of 911 emergency calls which often accompanies the deployment of a concussion grenade.
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An increase of cooperation between citizens and law enforcement.
How often does any government agency think efficiently or productively? Kudos to our local S.W.A.T. team.
The point is, anticipating the consequences of your actions is ultimately more productive. So pay attention and look for opportunities to be of greater service and improve productivity. This is the success principle called ‘going the extra mile,’ as the late Dr. Napoleon Hill taught, with a productivity twist.
What positive, preemptive action can you take to calm the fears or concerns of your customers, clients, subordinates, colleagues, or superiors? It will ultimately improve relationships and productivity.