We’ve all been in situations where we’re meeting a new group of people, whether at a work event, a networking event, or even a party. It can be daunting to approach a group of strangers, let alone converse with them.
That’s where icebreakers come in!
Icebreakers are a great way to get people to open up and start talking to each other. But how do you choose the correct icebreaker for a group?
First, consider the purpose of the gathering. If you’re in a work setting and the group is there to brainstorm ideas for a new project, you’ll want to choose an icebreaker related to creativity or problem-solving. For example, ask everyone to share their favorite brainstorming technique or to develop a new product idea on the spot.
On the other hand, if you’re at a social event where people need to learn about each other better, you’ll want to choose an icebreaker more focused on getting to know each other. This could be as simple as asking everyone to share their name and one interesting fact about themselves or asking them to share their favorite hobby or travel destination.
But sometimes, a little creativity goes a long way. I love using the “head fake” icebreaker that seems unrelated to the main topic but ties in quite nicely. For example, if you’re meeting with a group of doctors to discuss a new surgical procedure, you could ask everyone how they like to relax after a long day at work. This might seem odd, but it could lead to a discussion about stress management techniques relevant to their work.
Ultimately, knowing your audience and their needs is the key to choosing the right icebreaker. Consider what will get them talking and engaged, and choose an icebreaker that aligns with that. And remember, icebreakers are meant to be fun and light-hearted, so don’t be afraid to inject humor or silliness into the mix. After all, laughter is the best icebreaker of them all!
Dr. James D. Washington
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