Icebreakers

Note: See below for a GREAT icebreaker you can use NOW...

Why Icebreakers?

  • They set a positive tone for the meeting

  • They give the speaker or chairman an approachable aura

  • They loosen things up

  • They help build relationships

  • They motivate people to talk

  • They give people something to look forward to

  • They give folks an “excuse” to get to know people they don’t know

  • They’re fun

How to introduce icebreakers

Some folks feel a bit awkward initiating icebreakers in a group when the group has not used icebreakers before.  Not to worry, a little advance work will help gain acceptance and have people even look forward to them!

Let people know what you are doing and why…

Start your meeting, or committee, or project letting people know that you will be using icebreakers.

If you change your behavior without explanation, some people may resist, or just plain think you’re nuts.  Depending on your situation, you might consider explaining that you are going to start having a brief icebreaker at each meeting, and the reasons.

Assign icebreakers to others.

Sometimes it is effective to challenge each person in the group to come up with an icebreaker, instead of you having to think them up all the time.  That way you’ll see a lot of creativity (different than your own,) and you’ll give responsibility to others in the group.

Allow people permission to opt out of the icebreaker

It is important for you as the leader to recognize that some folks may not want to participate.  Be up front with them about this.  People should not be “bound” to join in the activity.

Don’t forget to ask if there are any questions before proceeding!

Give folks an opportunity to check their understanding of your directions.  It shows respect and might avoid some confusion for others…!

You've just read an excerpt from the eBook,  Fiery Icebreakers!

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Want more ideas for GREAT icebreakers?  The Ebook, "Fiery Icebreakers" has over 60 pages of icebreakers and warm up exercises that you can use in your business, volunteer organization, and even your families!  Easy to read...  Great tips on how to group people...  An Icebreaker Gallery with over 50 different Icebreakers you can use immediately...  only 20 bucks!

Here's a one of the icebreakers featured in "Fiery Icebreakers"

Icebreaker Gallery - A Sample

"Finish the sentence" 

 

Group size:

Small groups or large groups where people are seated in groups 

Time:

60-30 seconds per person 

Materials:

None 

Why it works:

Opens discussion, provides opportunities for interaction and sharing, develops rapport

 This is one of the easiest and most used icebreakers.  It never gets tired because people are new and different.  Don’t hesitate to use one of these at each meeting you have…

 Have all participants finish a sentence.  This is easy, requires no materials, and takes only a few moments.  There are tons of opportunities to use this icebreaker technique.  You can use it at a small group meeting or in a larger group if people are seated together at round tables.  The focus can vary, based on what you are trying to accomplish: 

  • To set the tone for the meeting 
  • To help people learn
  • To help people get to know each other a little better

 

This is just one of the icebreakers featured in the "Fiery Icebreakers" eBook, and is our gift to you...

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Only $20

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MAKING GOOD MEETINGS GREAT - Audio and TWO eBooks

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