In R3 Continuum’s (R3) Response Center, we have a network of highly skilled CIR Consultants that stand on one side of the chasm, and on the other side, we find employees stricken with disaster. It is a Response Coordinator’s (RC) job to bridge the gap that lies between this abyss. Everyday life as an RC is as unique as the one that preceded it. Chaos is the nature of this business in its purest form. Our work is entirely contingent upon the tumultuous disruptions of life itself. Some days we can hardly take a breath without getting wrapped into another case, issue, or request. At any moment, we can receive a call that puts us on the front line of the next major disaster, or a call that presents the need for a Swahili-speaking, ASL proficient, CIR Consultant (or a bevy of them) to be at a site RIGHT NOW, if not yesterday. Being an RC provides the unique opportunity to provide “first responder” assistance in getting help for those who have been impacted by disaster.
Yet, an RC’s efforts are accomplished entirely behind the scenes. The actual “first responder” assistance comes from our dedicated network of Consultants who are ready to respond immediately and physically when called upon.
I find it amazing that there are people who are willing to walk into a situation and help those impacted despite the permeating aftermath that many would prefer to flee from. Through the resulting smoke and debris caused by critical incidents, it is our Consultants that clear a path for those impacted. An RC and a Consultant work hand-in-hand in making sure that a response is executed with precision. Our cumulative efforts provide those impacted with the means to find a new state of normalcy, and that allows them to move beyond the rubble. Each case is entirely unique in its own right, and the ability of our Consultants to adapt and shape themselves to fit the intricacies of each incident truly amazes me.
And in the meantime, the relationships that develop between RCs and Consultants are incredibly meaningful. I often find myself overhearing my colleague’s conversations. It’s hard not to. Those relationships show how closely we work with, and depend upon one another. The inside jokes, eccentricities, and solidarity that exist between many of us makes the remoteness of our job seem nonexistent at times. It often sounds as if someone were having a conversation in person rather than over the phone. I’ve had conversations with many different Consultants about life aspirations, family, weekend plans, our varying preferences in sports, and our favorite teams. The fact that we’re able to naturally develop these relationships only makes for a more enjoyable environment to work within. Sure, when it comes down to it, we’re all business, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a little fun while we’re discussing margins.
Our ability to find solutions when they do not present themselves is also quite impressive. The bridge that must be built to connect those with the resources needed to recover following a critical incident requires more effort than others at times. There are occasions where resources to construct a bridge are not readily available. For instance, working all day on a next-day response on Easter Sunday in Yakima, WA, and coming up empty after connecting with many of our local resources can certainly make one sweat. However, there is not a lot of “quit” in this group. We continue to dig, and work until the job is completed, and the bridge is sound. We never know when we’ll get that one call back from a Consultant that is available, but when we do it makes all of the difference.
Life is chaotic, and disruptive workplace events will present themselves when least expected. What we do in the face of critical incidents, and our perception of life, is shaped by our resiliency to stand beneath the weight and move forward despite our circumstances. Each individual is unique in how they are impacted. It is the responsibility of the RC and the Consultant to always be ready when called upon to respond calmly and swiftly in the face of any incident, and to provide those stricken by hardship with the necessary tools to recover. Our cumulative efforts make a difference for those who most need it, and the value that is provided as a result is truly priceless.
Thank you, for all of the work that you do!
