Time to Think – The Creative Business Away Day
The new autumn term got off to a flying start at The Refectory Table with our Creative Business Away Day.
We’ve designed this particular workshop for people seeking some structured time out to look at their business in the round, diagnose strengths and weaknesses, and get a clear picture of what they need to do to take their business to the next level.
‘This event gave me the opportunity I needed to talk about myself and my business in a very safe & relaxed environment.’
Participants arrived between 9.30 and 10am from Norfolk, Nottingham. Loughborough, Liverpool and West Yorkshire and got to meet each other over coffee, fruit and pastries. Janet welcomed everyone and said a few words about The Refectory Table courses and activities, and then Pete set out the shape of the day.
The morning began with Pete coaching the group to look at their individual businesses in detail, working out future directions, sketching out hopes dreams and aspirations, then thinking in pairs about what might get in the way of progress and how to remove any obstacles.
‘Pete hit the nail on the head perfectly – reining us in graciously when we needed it – letting us fly when we needed that.’
At lunchtime we all sat at the table to share stories, whilst enjoying a meal of baked salmon, roasted beetroot salad and steamed new potatoes, followed by mixed berry salad with mint.
‘Great food, good company. Step by step ways to put you in touch with yourself.’
In the afternoon the group focused on working out how to cultivate new customers and develop the right products and services. This was followed by our ‘marketing swap shop’ – everyone compared notes about what they felt were the best marketing tools and techniques – a really useful session.
‘A very relaxed way to consider your business life & career – whilst engaging with like minded folk.’
The mid-afternoon energy slump was avoided by taking a working break for refreshments with both fruit and a home-baked cake on offer. We’ve named this break a ‘crumbhuddle’ after our twitter name.
In the final session everyone compared notes with their fellow participants, got support and feedback from Pete and the other group members before setting out an action plan to help them move forward with the development of their business.
‘Very thought provoking – made me think about my personal aims for progression’.
After a final few words from Pete the day wrapped up at 4pm, contact details and warm goodbyes were exchanged and everyone headed home – tired, but full of energy and ideas.
‘Bloody amazing. Vibrant & dynamic way of re-booting your business. A wonderful atmosphere & great food. Worth heaps more than I paid.’
Any creatives out there who need a swift soft kick into a new creative tsunami have a look at The Refectory Table’s brilliant courses. I spent yesterday with a great bunch of people zooming through the stratosphere of ideas.’
The Refectory Table team works with people in small groups and aims to help you get better at the business of being creative.
To find out more about the Creative Business Away Day click here.
All quotes are from participants attending the day.
You will also find feedback here on Helen Hallows blog