Building strong, connected teams is an ongoing endeavor. You might think that since your team has worked together for a while and knows each other well, icebreakers and team building exercises are unnecessary. However, icebreakers are actually crucial for boosting employee engagement. The reality is, no matter how long the team has been together, investing time in team building is essential. We often get asked for effective icebreakers for team building here at CuriosityBased. In this piece, I’ll share icebreakers that work well for both virtual and in-person meetings.
Team building isn’t a one-and-done event, but an ongoing process. Icebreakers can be a valuable tool in fostering connections among team members, whether they’re meeting in person or virtually. Here are five straightforward icebreakers to get your team engaged and the conversations rolling:
1. Opening Word:
– Begin by sharing a word that encapsulates how you’re feeling at the moment, followed by a brief explanation. This helps to gauge the mood and creates a supportive atmosphere as the meeting kicks off.
2. Personal High and Low:
– Share something good and something challenging that’s happened since the last time you met. It’s a simple way to share experiences and support one another.
3. Rose, Bud, Thorn:
– Similar to the previous point, but with a slight twist. Share a positive experience (Rose), a challenge (Thorn), and something new or hopeful (Bud). It provides a platform for both personal and professional sharing.
4. PEIS Check-In:
– Check in on four fronts: Physical, Emotional, Intellectual, and Spiritual. You can share one or all of these aspects. It’s an opportunity for a well-rounded check-in.
5. Photo Share:
– Ideal for teams that meet infrequently, sharing a photo of a significant recent event in your life can foster connections and ignite interesting discussions.
Incorporating these icebreakers into your team meetings, be they virtual or in-person, can aid in breaking down communication barriers and fostering a collaborative environment. These simple yet effective conversation starters pave the way for better understanding and stronger relationships within the team.
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