Icebreaker Questions

The best icebreakers are easy to answer and reveal something fun. Avoid anything too personal.

Use one per meeting or a few for a new group.

Setting the Scene

Before you even start asking questions, think about the atmosphere you're trying to create. A warm, relaxed environment makes everyone feel more comfortable and willing to share. If you're hosting, make sure the space is inviting, maybe with some soft lighting or a background playlist that isn't too distracting. For virtual gatherings, encourage everyone to turn their cameras on if they're comfortable. A friendly smile and an open posture from the facilitator can really help put people at ease and encourage participation. Remember, the goal is connection, not interrogation!

Consider the group you're with and the occasion. A Christmas office party might call for slightly different questions than a new book club meeting. Tailoring your approach shows you've thought about your audience and their comfort levels. It’s a good idea to have a few questions up your sleeve, ready to adapt if the first one doesn't quite land. The key is to be flexible and read the room. Don't be afraid to gently move on if a question feels like it's falling flat or if people seem hesitant to answer. It's all about making everyone feel good.

Making the Most of Answers

Once someone answers, it’s not just about moving straight onto the next person. A good facilitator listens actively and can gently follow up on an answer if appropriate, perhaps with a simple, 'Oh, that sounds interesting, tell us a bit more!' or 'What made you choose that one?' This shows genuine interest and can spark natural conversations, which is exactly what icebreakers are designed to do. However, be mindful not to put anyone on the spot or make them feel interrogated. A brief, positive acknowledgement is often enough to keep things flowing and encourage others to share.

Remember to share your own answer too! When you're leading an icebreaker, offering your own response first can break the ice for everyone else. It sets a precedent, showing vulnerability and enthusiasm, and encourages others to open up. People are more likely to participate if they see the person running the activity is also willing to engage. Think of it as a shared experience, not just a task. Your honest, light-hearted answer can create a ripple effect, making everyone feel more connected and ready to chat.

Easy

• What's your go-to takeaway?
• What was your first job?
• What's the best thing you've watched lately?
• What's your hidden talent?

Fun

• If you had a theme tune, what would it be?
• What's the weirdest food you've tried?
• Which fictional character would be your best friend?

For work

• What's the best advice you've ever had?
• What's one thing on your bucket list?
• What would you do with an extra hour a day?

Key things to remember

• Keep it light.
• Go first yourself.
• Let people pass.

Frequently asked questions

What is a good icebreaker question?

'What's your go-to takeaway?' Easy, fun and inclusive.

What is a good example of icebreaker Questions?

"What's your go-to takeaway?" is one of 10 examples on this page. Pick the one closest to the tone you want, then add a specific detail of your own - a shared memory, a date, a name - so it reads as yours rather than copied.

Can I copy these messages word for word?

Yes. Everything on this page is free to copy, print and read out - no permission or credit needed. Changing one detail so it fits the person is all we would suggest.

How long should a card message be?

One to three lines suits most cards. Write the message before the name so you can start again if it goes wrong, and if you run out of room, carry on inside the back cover rather than shrinking your handwriting.

What if no one wants to answer my icebreaker questions?

It happens sometimes! Don't panic or push too hard. Try to rephrase the question to make it even simpler or offer a couple of different choices. You could also try answering it yourself first to demonstrate how easy it is. If the silence continues, it might be a sign that the group needs a different activity or a bit more time to warm up naturally. A simple, 'No worries if it's tricky, let's try another one!' can diffuse any awkwardness.

Can I use icebreaker questions for online meetings?

Absolutely! Icebreaker questions are brilliant for online meetings, perhaps even more so than in-person ones, as they help bridge the distance. Keep the questions concise and easy to answer over a video call. It's often best to let everyone know in advance that there will be a quick icebreaker at the start. You can go around the 'room' virtually, or even use a chat function for written answers if people are shy about speaking up.

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