10 Effective Icebreaking Techniques for Online Meetings
In the era of remote work and virtual meetings, building rapport and fostering engagement can be challenging. Icebreakers play a vital role in setting the tone for an online meeting, especially when participants are dispersed or new to each other. Here are ten icebreaking techniques designed to lighten the mood, encourage communication, and enhance collaboration during online meetings.
1. Two Truths and a Lie
A classic icebreaker that works just as well online as in person. Ask each participant to share two true statements and one false statement about themselves. Others try to guess which statement is the lie. It’s a fun way to discover interesting facts about team members and ignite friendly competition.
2. Virtual Background Show and Tell
In platforms like Zoom or Teams, participants can choose virtual backgrounds. Ask everyone to pick a background that represents something meaningful to them—a favorite travel destination, hobby, or even a dream goal—and explain why they chose it. This visual twist helps people express their personalities.
3. Team Bingo
Create a virtual bingo card with prompts like “someone who loves coffee,” “has traveled to more than 5 countries,” or “plays a musical instrument.” Participants check off boxes as they find teammates who fit the description. It's a quick way to get to know each other better and spark conversations.
4. Emoji Check-in
Have everyone share how they’re feeling by choosing an emoji or GIF that represents their current mood. It's a simple, low-pressure way to gauge the emotional state of the group and break the ice before diving into business.
5. Speed Networking
In breakout rooms (available in most video conferencing tools), pair participants for 2–3 minutes and ask them to introduce themselves with a fun prompt, such as “What’s your dream job?” or “If you could have dinner with any famous person, who would it be?” Rotate pairs every few minutes to ensure everyone gets a chance to connect.
6. Virtual Scavenger Hunt
Give everyone a list of items they have to find in their home (e.g., something red, an object they can’t live without, or a childhood keepsake). Participants then show and explain their chosen objects to the group. This adds movement to an otherwise static environment and brings a personal touch to the meeting.
7. Question of the Day
Begin the meeting with a light-hearted question, such as “If you could instantly become an expert in any skill, what would it be?” or “What’s your favorite book or movie?” Participants can type answers in the chat or share verbally. This is a quick way to encourage participation without taking too much time.
8. Pictionary or Drawing Games
Use an online whiteboard tool like Miro or the built-in drawing features in Zoom to play Pictionary. One person draws while others try to guess what it is. Drawing not only adds humor but also reduces the formality of the meeting and gets people thinking creatively.
9. Would You Rather?
Pose “Would you rather” questions that range from serious to silly, such as “Would you rather work remotely forever or never work remotely again?” or “Would you rather have the ability to fly or be invisible?” Participants can answer through a poll or by raising their hands. This can prompt deeper conversations and reveal people’s preferences in a fun way.
10. Personal Fun Fact
Ask each participant to share a fun fact about themselves that others may not know. To make it even more engaging, collect the facts beforehand and let participants guess whose fun fact belongs to whom. It’s a great way to discover hidden talents, hobbies, or unique experiences.
Why Icebreakers Matter Starting meetings with an icebreaker helps set a positive tone, builds connections, and encourages open communication. In a virtual setting, where physical cues and proximity are lacking, they are an essential tool to foster engagement, break down silos, and create a more inclusive atmosphere.
Tips for Choosing the Right Icebreaker:
- Consider group size: Some icebreakers work best with smaller groups (e.g., Speed Networking) while others can scale to larger audiences (e.g., Emoji Check-in).
- Know your team: Tailor the activity to the personalities and culture of your group. Some teams may prefer light-hearted, creative games, while others might enjoy deeper conversations. Time constraints: Keep icebreakers brief, especially in meetings with tight agendas. A 5-10 minute activity is often enough to break the ice without disrupting the flow of the meeting.
By incorporating these techniques into your online meetings, you can create a more collaborative and enjoyable experience that sets the stage for productive discussions.