Over the last few months, I have had the opportunity to intern at RIX. During this time, I expected to gain technical skills, learn professionalism in the workplace, and improve my research abilities.
And while I did learn all those skills, what stood out the most was not just the skills I learned. Instead, it was the people and the way they worked together. RIX’s team dynamic had a much deeper impact on me than I ever anticipated. Specifically, it impacted how I view collaboration, leadership, and individual contributions.
Discovering the power of teams
From my first day at RIX, I noticed how there was something unique about how the team interacted. However, I could not quite articulate what made the team’s interactions different. Initially, I chose to disregard my observation and focused on my work. But as luck would have it, I was quickly put in a position where I needed to take a closer look.
As a student, one of my assignments required me to interview people at my internship on a topic of my choice. Coincidentally, my fellow students and I chose to explore the impact of small teams. This project became a turning point as it forced me to revisit my initial observation about RIX’s team dynamic. Specifically, it forced me to consider what makes the RIX team dynamic unique?
Interviews, observations, and insights
To answer my question, I conducted interviews with various employees at RIX and observed the team dynamic I experienced in the office. From this, a recurring theme emerged. Specifically, the idea of flat management structures in the workplace. While I had heard the term before, I found that this idea was not just an idea but was the reality of everyday at RIX.
From the moment I walked through the doors, I was treated as a valued member of the team. During meetings, I watched people encourage and celebrate each other regardless of seniority. During interviews, employees expressed how much they appreciated and valued the unique perspectives each colleague brought to the table.
That is when it clicked. The team dynamic at RIX was not just about treating everyone with the same level of respect. Instead, it is found in how each person’s contributions are recognised and celebrated. Celebrating each other’s strengths and unique aspects is what leads to treating people with equal respect. That is what made the team culture so powerful.
A moment that changed my perspective
Personally, one specific moment brought all of this into focus. During a team meeting, a team member I had worked with mentioned their appreciation for the help I provided on a project. The celebration of my assistance in the following moments was surprising. I felt a mix of pride and confusion. The reaction to my simple observations and notes was not what I had expected and left me with a question. Why was this worthy of such a reaction?
Reflecting on this question, I realised that the applause was not just because of the work I had done. It was also a reflection of the team dynamic and how they celebrate unique contributions. This moment helped me realise that each contribution in a team is not only valuable but worth celebrating. Through this process of reflecting, I found that I had been shaped by this environment without even realising it.
Looking forward
This experience has had a lasting impact on how I view teams and leadership. Due to this experience, I have learned how important it is to find a team that celebrates the success of everyone. Going forward, I know I will carry these lessons into future team settings, and especially into any leadership roles I might take on. Through my time at RIX, I say that I truly understand how important it is to create spaces where everyone feels appreciated and empowered.
Final Thoughts
As my time at RIX comes to a close, I am incredibly grateful for the experience. I have learned many different things during my time here. However, the most valuable takeaway is the importance of building a team culture rooted in mutual respect and recognition.
One quote from my interviews stands out as I reflect on my time at RIX. When interviewing Gosia, RIX’s director, about her leadership philosophy, she described her goal was to “create a culture that feels like everyone is working together and is valued.” After my time at RIX, I can say with confidence that she has succeeded.
But this culture is not the result of one person. It is the result of everyone at RIX showing up by supporting each other and celebrating each other. I am honoured to have been part of this team, even briefly, and I look forward to seeing what this amazing team continues to accomplish in the future.
Maggie Price, CAPA Intern