As a master's student of Social and Organisational Psychology at Leiden University, I thought I knew how organisations worked. The theory on leadership, group dynamics and job satisfaction was in my head. But my placement at AVOP taught me something else: the difference between knowing and understanding.
From theory to practice
My studies taught me organisational theory. My internship at AVOP showed me how to translate that theory into actual guidance. How do you support a leader in their development? How do you observe without judging? How do you write a report that is not only accurate, but usable?
I was actively involved in development assessments: observing, reflecting, reporting. I saw up close what the impact of quality advice is.
AVOP as a learning organisation
What struck me about AVOP is that learning isn't only something we offer to clients, it is also encouraged internally. There is room for feedback and reflection, and the contribution of interns is taken seriously.
That isn't self-evident. In many organisations there is a gap between what is preached externally and what is practised internally. At AVOP I experienced genuine congruence.
The most important lesson
My most important insight? Listen well and stay objective. Instead of giving immediate answers, I learned to ask probing questions: what do you need? What do you want to achieve? That way you help people steer themselves in their own development.
It sounds simple, but it takes discipline to park your own judgement and really listen to what the other person is saying, and what they are not saying.
In closing
For professionals, leaders or organisations seeking guidance on leadership, team development or psychological safety: at AVOP we combine scientific knowledge with years of practical experience. That combination makes the difference.