“We painted that and it turned out great!” – Laura and Miika Vepsäläinen are a team on the job site too

At Väriset, painting work is primarily carried out in pairs – but what’s it like to paint with your own spouse? That’s what Laura and Miika Vepsäläinen have done, painting houses in the summer of 2022 as subcontractors in Pirkanmaa.

“We both play volleyball and spend time in nature. Music and friends also bring richness to our everyday life.”

This is how the Vepsäläinens describe their daily life. Miika, who studies production economics, and Laura, who works in the arts, live in the heart of Pirkanmaa in Tampere. Both already had experience with exterior painting when they came to paint for Väriset through the subcontracting model in the summer of 2022.

“We’ve only heard good things about Väriset.”

“Based on previous work experience, we knew we’d definitely enjoy painting. Painting felt like a natural summer job for both of us. Plus, it felt like a nice way to earn money.”

Word had spread far: “We’ve only heard good things about Väriset.”

“It turned out great!”

According to the Vepsäläinens, the best part of painting work is when you finish a challenging job site that felt like it would take forever, and you finally get to look at your handiwork: “We painted that and it turned out great!”

A painter’s work isn’t just about swinging a brush. The job requires organizational skills, self-direction, and problem-solving abilities. Interaction with the customer is also important.

“Meeting people and having conversations were interesting. We also got really good pancakes and waffles from a customer!”

But what’s it like to work as a close team with your own spouse at work too?

“Working with your spouse – first as a future spouse and then as a current one – can be nerve-wracking at times, because it’s easy to take out a bad day on each other. However, painting with someone you know is rewarding in a certain way when you realize that the teamwork actually works. Plus, the money goes into the same pocket.”

“You can trust that things work”

Väriset receives praise from the Vepsäläinens for its operating models.

“You can trust that things work and even difficult situations are handled professionally and fairly. It felt like they cared about us and the supervisors were genuinely interested in improving our working conditions. They wanted the collaboration to be seamless and pleasant.”

According to Laura and Miika, Väriset’s communication with both employees and customers works well. Additionally, in various challenging situations, they aimed to reach a solution that benefited all parties.

“We didn’t have to face challenges alone.”

A painting summer includes all kinds of projects: some are completed in no time, others require a bit more work and thinking.

“The first project was challenging. On the surface it looked quite ordinary, but it turned out to be extremely difficult and unusual due to its challenging height and terrain features. Fortunately, the contract sum was significantly increased to reflect a more realistic contract amount.”

“Things get sorted out when you bring them up”

At Väriset, a painter can work either as a direct employee or through the subcontracting model. Väriset wants to offer each painter the best way to work for them.

“As a subcontractor, it’s possible to earn more. Additionally, subcontracting is more independent, but you could get support and help when needed.”

Laura and Miika want to encourage those who are considering the subcontracting model.

“Additionally, subcontracting is more independent, but you could get support and help when needed.”

The Vepsäläinens also have a few valuable tips for those considering subcontracting.

“You should look into starting a business well in advance before starting summer work. For a first-summer painter, we don’t recommend working as a sole proprietor due to the greater responsibility and skill pressure.”

“Also, when you’re at work, don’t be afraid to speak up if something feels too difficult or unfair. Things get sorted out when you bring them up.”

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