The 7 Icebreaker Questions for Team Meetings
Q1. What is the background image on your computer or smartphone?
This question invites participants to share a glimpse into their personal preferences or creativity:
- Encourages lighthearted responses.
- Reveals personal interests or aspirations, like family photos or scenic landscapes.
- Works well because it’s non-threatening and easy to answer.
Example Response: “Oh, mine’s still the default background – I didn’t even realise I hadn’t changed it!”
Q2. What is stuck to your refrigerator door?
This playful question is an excellent way to spark laughter and storytelling:
- Opens the door to amusing anecdotes about quirky magnets, kids’ artwork, or shopping lists.
- Lets participants choose how much they want to share, ensuring comfort.
Example Response: “A magnet I picked up from Paris – and a reminder to buy milk!”
Q3. If you could have one superhuman power, what would it be?
This question is both imaginative and revealing:
- Encourages participants to dream big and share personal wishes.
- Can lead to fascinating discussions about how these “powers” could improve their work or team collaboration.
Example Response: “I’d love to teleport – no more commuting or airport lines!”
Q4. Where in the world would you love to retire?
Dreaming about the future can be both fun and insightful:
- Provides an opportunity to share personal aspirations or favourite destinations.
- Allows team members to connect over shared travel interests.
Example Response: “Italy, hands down. I fell in love with the food and lifestyle during a holiday there.”
Q5. How many homes have you lived in?
This question is a great way to learn about someone’s background:
- Reveals life experiences, such as frequent moves or long-term stays.
- Often leads to surprising discoveries, even in long-standing teams.
Example Response: “I’ve lived in 15 homes, mostly because my family moved a lot for work!”
Q6. What is the story of your name?
This deeply personal question fosters connection:
- Encourages participants to share family traditions or unique origins of their names.
- Offers insight into their identity and values.
Example Response: “My first name is after my grandfather and my middle name is from my mum’s favourite book.”
Q7. What is your favourite place in your home?
A simple yet revealing question about comfort and personal space:
- Provides a window into participants’ daily lives.
- Promotes storytelling about how they unwind or find joy at home.
Example Response: “The couch by my big window – I love the sunlight and the view while sipping coffee.”
Original post December 2024, last updated December 2024.