🧊I used to dread leading icebreakers.
The mere mention of the word “icebreaker” brought up all kinds of awkward memories for me. I got flashbacks of my overly enthusiastic camp counselor asking me to do things that I didn’t feel comfortable doing.
I had to face my own resistance.
When I started facilitating groups, I tried to avoid icebreakers so I didn’t have to feel awkward. Not surprisingly my group members remained guarded and distant.
I realized that icebreakers are a vital part of group work.
Icebreakers (when done well) help people ease into your session. They help people feel safe and comfortable with the group. And they fast-track your group’s ability to connect in more meaningful ways.
There are tried-and-tested ways to do them well.
I learned techniques from other facilitators who led icebreakers that didn’t feel cringey. I started experimenting with icebreakers that felt natural to me. I chose ones that fit my audience and purpose. And it changed everything!
Tip #1
Start easy
Ask a prompt question that everyone can answer.
This makes it simple for people to engage straight away without overthinking their responses.
Tip #2
Gradually increase risk
Start with a low-risk question that people feel comfortable answering.
When you do, you’ll set the stage for taking your group deeper.
Tip #3
FIND THE STRETCH ZONE
hoose a question that reveals something about your audience members’ personalities beyond their name, location, and job.
This starts to move your group from surface-level interaction into deeper more meaningful connection.
Tip #4
Share the why
So many icebreakers fail because your group members don’t understand the purpose.
Explaining the “why” helps people understand the benefits they’ll gain by engaging.
Tip #5
Go first
Model the kind of answer you want to hear from the group.
When you add some vivid detail and personality to your response you invite others to do the same.
Tip #6
TAILOR for YOUR Audience
Icebreakers that are “creative” for one group can feel “cringy” and pointless to another.
That’s why you need to design your question for your specific group and goals.
Tip #7
Design for YOUR GROUP SIZE
or small groups share answers verbally and for bigger groups use the chat.
For a 1hr session, your opening icebreaker shouldn’t take more than 5 minutes.
Tip #8
Move quickly
When opening icebreakers take too much time they kill energy and momentum.
Specify the time people have to answer and don’t let people jump in with follow-up questions.
Tip #9
Interrupt over talkers
Don’t let people ramble on.
It’s your job to interrupt and protect the group’s experience.
Tip #10
Practice
Icebreakers can make or break a session. So don’t wing it.
When you practice and test your icebreaker before your session you’ll increase your chances for success.
My 5 favourite opening icebreakers
“One thing you love to do.”
“A side gig or a hobby you have.”
“One thing that’s bringing you joy today.”
“Something new you’ve learned recently.”
“Something you’ve been excited about lately.”
What are yours?
TL;DR 10 pro-tips for leading successful opening icebreakers👇
Tip 1: ✅Start easy
Tip 2: ✅Gradually increase risk
Tip 3: ✅Find the stretch zone
Tip 4: ✅Share the “why”
Tip 5: ✅Go first
Tip 6: ✅Tailor it to the purpose
Tip 7 ✅Design for group size
Tip 8: ✅Move quickly
Tip 9: ✅Interrupt over talkers
Tip 10:✅Practice
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