I Love Rackers

I love Rackers.

Yes, I used the word “love” in reference to my co-workers. I can feel the discomfort in some Rackers coming through the world wide intertron now. That is, assuming anyone actually reads my first ever blog post . And I couldn’t think of a better topic for my first blog than “Rackers”.

Some of you are no doubt asking “Is this guy crazy?” The “HR guy” at Rackspace can’t say “love” when referring to Rackers, can he? Yep. He can. And he just did. And you know what? I mean it.

If you had the opportunity to sit where I sit, see what I see, or hear what I hear on a daily basis, you would say it too. More importantly, you would feel it.

So, why do I love Rackers?

Well, it starts with what they do and who they are on a daily basis. It’s Fanatical Support®. They deliver it…all day, every day. I love them because they love our customers. It’s what makes this place tick. Rackers are the secret sauce to Fanatical Support®. They bring it every day, no matter what. Why wouldn’t you love that?

Rackers actually care about each other. You can feel it. It is palpable. And they prove it with their actions every single day.

I could regale you with story after story about the random acts of kindness and compassion that I see all the time. Some are big and obvious – raising funds to assist a seriously ailing Racker or family member with out-of-pocket expenses. Others are daily moments and gestures – hugs, birthday celebrations, fixing another Racker’s flat in the parking lot, a simple “thank you”. Countless examples, big and small, which demonstrate in words and actions how much they care for each other. It is humbling to watch. Why wouldn’t you love that?

Here is where I should also mention my team – HR Rackers. I watch them go above and beyond for their customers – other Rackers – all the time. Especially when a Racker is in need. And this is when they truly shine. I’ve seen some amazing things in my time in the role and I can’t talk about most of them (I’m sure you understand why). But I’ve been reduced to tears many a time by my own team and their compassion for Rackers. Why wouldn’t you love that?

Rackers are a unique and special group. We celebrate their uniqueness and encourage it. First and foremost by understanding each Racker’s unique combination of strengths. Then by diligently working to get them into a role which leverages those strengths and unlocks their passion. Their inner uniqueness is what truly makes them special. Why wouldn’t you love that?

And because I love Rackers, I love my job. I am a lucky Racker. My job is quite possibly one of the best on the planet. And it is because of Rackers. Do you know what it’s like to get up in the morning excited to go to work? Now, why wouldn’t you love that?

Originally hired as the Vice President of Infrastructure Services for Rackspace in 2007, Wayne now serves as the Senior Vice President of Human Resources. A Servant Leader and passionate developer of people, Wayne believes that Rackers are the “secret sauce” for Rackspace. Learn more about Wayne by clicking here.