How Well Do You *Really* Know Your Employees or Colleagues?

If there’s one thing I’m most certainly happy about when it comes to my art, it’s the way it’s sparked some of the most random and unexpectedly beautiful conversations with my colleagues. These are people I had worked with for years — years! — and while I knew some were creative, I had no idea about the hidden depths behind their corporate personas.

One colleague had exhibited their art in galleries and restaurants. Another used to restore statues. One had even been involved in the meticulous drawing of flags. And several had actually won art competitions when they were younger — back when life was a little freer and the weight of bills and responsibilities hadn't yet settled in.

Even better? Many of them are DIY geniuses — so naturally, they knew exactly what I needed to make my artwork more durable. And I mean seriously durable — think: art as strong as stone. I was honestly in awe. These were people I’d worked alongside for years, and yet I had only scratched the surface of who they really were.

It made me wonder: how much untapped potential lies within companies — right under our noses?

Now, I understand that not every hidden talent can be directly applied to the company’s bottom line. But not every skill has to be about ROI or KPIs. Some can simply be used to spark fun, connection, and belonging in the workplace. And yes, I’m talking about things like… a fishing competition. (You read that right.)

Fishing for Engagement (Literally and Figuratively)

Say you’ve got a few talented anglers in your team. Why not organize a lighthearted fishing competition? The company can even buy the fish caught during the event and donate them — or heck, host a team BBQ! The largest catch (or funniest story from the day) gets an award. It’s simple, it’s fun, and it brings people together outside of their everyday roles.

Art, Ideas, and Inspiration at Work

Back to the creatives. Let’s say you're not bound by strict industry regulations like healthcare often is. Why not tap into your in-house talent for a campaign or a mini-project? If you're in a design-oriented industry — like the banknote industry, for instance — host a friendly internal competition: let your people design a visual element of a company-themed banknote. Winners get recognition, rewards, and the joy of contributing creatively.

Even if you’re in a less "artsy" field, you could still bring employee skills into team-building sessions, marketing brainstorms, or event planning. You might be surprised how well a graphic designer's eye, a sculptor's attention to form, or a crafter's understanding of materials can translate to workplace innovation.

Why This Matters (a Little Science to Back It Up)

According to a 2022 Gallup study, only 32% of employees in the U.S. reported feeling engaged at work. However, companies that focused on employee strengths saw up to 29% higher profits and 72% lower attrition. In short: when people feel seen, supported, and encouraged to bring more of themselves to work, they stick around — and they thrive.

A separate study published in the Harvard Business Review highlighted how peer connection and workplace friendships significantly increase job satisfaction, productivity, and even creativity. Encouraging colleagues to share their passions doesn’t just build community — it builds performance.

So, How Well Do You Know Your Team?

If your answer is “not well enough,” maybe it’s time to explore. Host a “Hidden Talents” day, where employees get to share something about their passions, hobbies, or skills. It can be as simple as a show-and-tell lunch or as involved as a quarterly creative challenge.

And if you’re not sure where to start or how to boost engagement in a way that’s fresh and personalized, message me. I’ve got an idea or two (or twenty)!

Because sometimes, the best team-building tool isn’t a training session or a PowerPoint presentation. It’s a paintbrush. Or a fishing rod. Or simply, a conversation.