How can you use icebreakers to make meetings more productive and engaging?

2 How to choose icebreakers?

When selecting icebreakers for a meeting, there are many types to choose from, such as games, quizzes, trivia, stories, puzzles, jokes, or challenges. You can find plenty of ideas online or create your own. However, not all icebreakers are suitable for every meeting. You need to consider the purpose and goal of the meeting, the size and composition of the team, the time and resources available, the level of familiarity and comfort among team members, and the culture and preferences of the team. The icebreaker you choose should be relevant, appropriate, and enjoyable for your team. Additionally, it’s important to avoid any icebreakers that are too personal, controversial, or offensive.

3 How to introduce icebreakers?

Once you have chosen your icebreakers, you need to introduce them to your team in a clear and engaging way. You should explain the rules and instructions of the icebreaker, demonstrate an example or model the expected behavior, set a time limit and a signal for ending the icebreaker, and encourage everyone to join and have fun. Additionally, provide feedback and praise for participation to ensure that your team understands the icebreaker and feels comfortable and motivated to participate. It is also important to monitor the progress and mood of the team and adjust the icebreaker if needed.

4 How to connect icebreakers to the meeting agenda?

Icebreakers are not just for fun; they can be used to achieve the objectives and agenda of your meeting. Consider linking the icebreaker to the topic or theme of the meeting, and then ask the team to reflect on or share what they learned from it. You can also use the icebreaker as a springboard for discussion or brainstorming, and apply the skills or insights gained from it to the meeting tasks or challenges. Finally, review or summarize the key points or takeaways from the icebreaker to ensure that your icebreakers are integrated and aligned with your meeting goals and content.

5 How to vary and improve icebreakers?

Icebreakers can become stale and uninteresting if you rely on the same ones too often. To keep your team engaged and challenged, you should vary and improve your icebreakers. Experiment with different types and formats, adapt or customize to their needs and interests, and ask for feedback. Invite your team to create or lead icebreakers, and add elements of surprise, humor, or competition to make them fresh and exciting. This way, you can ensure that your icebreakers are engaging while also learning and improving as a facilitator.

6 How to measure the impact of icebreakers?

Icebreakers can have a positive impact on your team's productivity and engagement, but how do you know if they are working? You can measure the impact of icebreakers by observing the behavior and attitude of your team during and after the icebreaker, asking for feedback and evaluation from your team on the icebreaker, comparing the results and outcomes of the meeting with and without the icebreaker, tracking the performance and satisfaction of your team over time, and using tools or metrics to quantify the effects of the icebreaker. It is essential to ensure that your icebreakers are delivering the desired results and benefits for your team, while also relying on data and evidence to support your decisions and actions.