Icebreakers can be a great way to connect with your audience, but let's face it, some are just plain bad. We're going to explore the world of icebreakers, share unconventional methods and discuss how to use icebreakers to connect with people to make your meetings memorable in simple and effective ways.
First up, let's talk about the F.O.R.D. system. It's like a magic formula that guarantees you'll never run out of conversation topics again. Ask about their Family. Ask about their Occupation. Ask about their Recreation, which is what they do for fun. Ask about their Dreams, not like sleepytime dreams, like what would you do if money was no object, hobbies, etc. Just remember the word Ford, and you'll be golden. Henry Ford would be proud. 🚗
Next, we have "four corners" debates. This one's perfect for the opinionated bunch. Write down a controversial statement or question on a whiteboard, and have everyone choose which corner they agree or disagree with. It's a great way to spark interesting discussions and get to know your colleagues' viewpoints. It's like a friendly argument but without the awkward tension.
If you're feeling adventurous, why not try a game of "100 random questions"? It's exactly what it sounds like – a list of 100 completely random questions. Each person takes a turn choosing a number, and the rest of the group has to answer that question. It's a fantastic way to learn weird and wonderful facts about your coworkers. Plus, who doesn't love a good surprise?
One of our favourites is the "movie background" challenge. Have everyone choose their favorite movie and explain why it's their go-to flick. To make it even more exciting, challenge them to use a clip from the movie as their Zoom background. Yes, it might feel a bit awkward at first, but trust us, it's a surefire way to bond over shared interests. And who knows, you might just find your new favorite movie.
Last but certainly not least, we have "roses, buds, and thorns". It's a sweet and simple way to get to know your colleagues on a personal level. Everyone shares one thing they're happy about (rose), something with potential (bud), and something they're not too thrilled about (thorn). It's a great way to lift the mood and show your team members that you care.
Still not convinced? Why not try incorporating some arts and crafts into your meetings? We know, we know – it sounds kind of corny. But hear us out. Giving your team small craft projects to work on at the beginning of meetings can actually be pretty enjoyable. Not only does it break the ice, but it also gets everyone out of "serious mode" and into a more relaxed state of mind. Think about it – how many times have you stressed over a project, only to realize that a little bit of crafting could've solved all your problems? Okay, maybe that's a stretch, but you get the idea.
There you have it – unconventional icebreakers that are guaranteed to spice up your meetings and networking events. So, go ahead and ditch the boring intros. It's time to shake things up and have some real fun. Your colleagues (and future friends) will thank you. 😊