For the past 2+ years, I have been focused on providing virtual paint classes for teams. It has been incredible to see the positive impact of my classes on individuals and those teams. In this post, I will highlight my learnings from leading the classes, the feedback I have received from executive assistance, and the impact these classes have on employee retention. This is a glimpse of my experience and partnerships in providing team-building events with companies of all sizes.
[ High Five ] for businesses ‘doing something’ – team-building events in general
As I mentioned above, I have been leading team-building classes for a number of years, outside of this business I have been working professionally in the Saas Product Management space for a long time. I know what it is like, as a team member to be working remotely, trying to stay engaged with your team, and trying to find a work-life balance. It is more difficult for remote workers to carve time out for themselves with ease access to their day-time work so accessible. Many employees are working longer hours, which means they need a break.
This is where I truly commend employers who have quarterly or bi-annual team-building events for their teams. Employees need this break to reconnect with themselves and their team in a different way to reset, feel appreciated and do something different than just work ( & family, etc. ). I have noticed some companies are investing in team-building events ( like my virtual paint and sip class ) and it is paying dividends for employees. It is not only reconnecting them with their team in a new way, but I am constantly hearing positive feedback on how much individuals appreciate the pace, reflection, and change of pace.
Employees – whether they say it or not – truly appreciate the events, as it gives them a sense of normalcy and changes the everyday mundane routine we have settled in with covid. Covid has become a part of our lives, as things slowly get better – employees are still remote. That means they still need this extra engagement to pull them away from their keyboard and closer to their team members. This extra attention will lead to stronger relationships, improved productivity, and increased chances of employee retention in this competitive market.
A creative experience
Let’s talk about the creative experience as a team-building offering for a minute. I have worked with many different people, different skills, careers, and roles – and there is a common thread amongst them all. Creativity is everywhere in our lives, which participants are encouraged to reflect on in my classes. Some have painted before, most haven’t for a long time. Some may be artistic in another form; drawing, pottery, oil, cooking, dancing, and more. These are meaningful connection points that come up in our classes. I love to pull out the creative topics in my classes for your team members to get to know each other. Meaningful relationships and getting to know one another are important to each of us; whether people like to admit it or not.
The paint experience in my classes allows everyone to collectively approach art in their own way, at their own pace in a supportive environment. That is why it works, as a wonderful team-building experience. It is the perfect balance that satisfies everyone for different reasons. Read on.
Finding a balance – connections, down time and laughter
Being a part of many different team-building experiences, I have an opinion of what was effective and not. The size of the group and how they are engaged are important. Taking the size of the group out for a minute, when considering a team-building event it is important to think about the people on your team. Doing something different is a good thing. Many groups have done escape rooms and tastings, but weaving in a painting class is important.
Here is the most important fact about paint classes; partner with the right company. Get to know who you are hiring. A high-quality instructor who is focused on your team, engagement, and active listening, and the pacing is critical. That is something we are truly proud of and value in the virtual paint classes we provide today. A little secret: Our classes are not about painting a sunset – they are about how your team interacts, how they are supported, and how they foster a creative environment in which they can experience art. Check out our reviews for others’ feedback. This will help employee retention and improve connections.
An exceptional virtual paint class should empower team members to enter the activity feeling open-minded, unwind, incorporate their style, learn a bit about their team members, and laugh. There is always laughter. Believe it or not, we can accomplish ALL the above without a sip. If you add a sip, imagine how the experience can change – insert your thoughts there.
A virtual paint class is a great way to get to know and engage with your team members. It will increase happiness and support your employee retention. Make sure you work with the right team-building company.