One Team

What does the value 'one team' mean to me? Prior to my time at Mavericks, I had understood that teamwork and being team-oriented was important through my own previous experiences of school projects and CCAs. I viewed it as a trait that was good to have to ensure smooth communications and better working processes. However, despite understanding the importance of a team, I previously still described myself as being more task-oriented - while people and relations are crucial, it is of greater priority to focus on the task at hand and ensure it gets done. As a result, I often would not push myself or the team.

Now, having gone through various experiences that forced me to reflect on the value of 'one

team', I believe that it represents cohesiveness and togetherness. It ties into being in a collaborative environment together with individuals who support and promote one another's growth to elevate the team as a whole. This could be encouraged through open and transparent communication, being receptive to feedback, and also actively working on the feedback received. In turn, there is a team whereby everyone has an aligned mindset and are not afraid to make mistakes if it means that greater success can be reaped.

Based on my previous experience, operating in a flat hierarchy with a team that values ideas and objectivity has greatly bolstered my time as an intern. During discussions, it is truly highlighted how everyone's opinion is valued. Questions are always asked, not from a place of judgement, but so as to achieve greater understanding. I think this consistent theme of openness and encouragement of both individual and team growth has given me more insight into how a team operates as one.

A weakness I have identified within myself even before entering Mavericks was the fear of failure. Perhaps stemming from the Singaporean experience of placing excellence at the forefront. As a result, it was more difficult for me to proactively receive feedback. The culture of a flat hierarchy (which was also new to me) whereby people not only acknowledge, but also take action to value and understand everyone's opinion was something that highly resonated with me. Even within my first few weeks in Mavericks, I think I have experienced a level of growth that went beyond my expectations. I attribute this largely to the environment and people I am surrounded by, giving me the space to fail but opportunity to grow. The notion of 'one team' has therefore become something integral to me, and it really shines in Mavericks where everyone is valued.