|
The development of the Esperance-Geraldton-Kalgoorlie
Freight Lines business has been on the basis of some single focus attitudes of
Michael Harding.
The “can do” approach to every business task
results in a corporate attitude of ‘how can we do this’ and not, ‘this cannot be
done because’. Hence the extensive advertising campaign ‘the can do Company’
that surrounds his business represents his “can do” attitude.
This attitude
becomes infectious through the management team and staff at Esperance-Geraldton-Kalgoorlie Freight Lines. This is never more obvious than when
Michael receives a late afternoon call from a valued customer who requires an
overnight delivery to a mine site.
The wheels start turning with Michael calling
managers, managers calling staff in to deliver the goods. Hours later the job is
done, and the staff member(s) receives a call from Michael to say “thank you”.
The “hands on” approach to the business that
Michael Harding adopts will see him behind the wheel of a prime mover during
every harvest and at other crucial times. Michael says it is, ‘to keep his hand
in and on the business’. While this is true, Michael also understands the need
to give drivers a break from being behind the wheel, for the sake of just a
break and for staff to spend time with their family.
 Michael can be contacted by
numerous customers that sees him focus on transporting grain, one minute,
arranging freight of Stones
the next, costing a freight consignment and the selling pavers to a potential
customer who just walked in the door ot his office.
The understanding and support that Michael gives
his team of staff is a credit to any organization. During the
difficult times of
the 2009 BHP Ravensthorpe mine closure a discussion occurred where Michael said
that his view was “that he would not reduce staff wages as long he
was going to
make a profit from the business”.
The impact from the mine closure was so severe
that the unprecedented step of reducing staff wages did occur, but as soon as
costs were under control the same staff were rewarded with reviews and the
business returned to profitability, all be it significantly less than previous
years.
Despite the Company growth another focus has always
been that the staff should always offer a “personalised service”.
All deliveries
are by way of an Esperance-Geraldton-Kalgoorlie Freight Lines staff member.
Damages that may have been incurred in the handling of freight by the Company
are compensated by the Company, if Michael feels his staff may have been the
caused.
|
