Icebreakers are one of the easiest and quickest virtual team-building activities to get started with. The process really only takes five minutes, and that investment will lead to more engaged employees and more productive collaboration. Its very win-win—when you get it right.

Do ice breakers actually work?

They dont work While icebreakers are supposed to get people talking and warm up the room, they often are stale and frigid. When your icebreaker allows people to give “canned” answers, they arent actually opening up. Instead they regurgitate answers they have given dozens of times.

How long should icebreakers last?

Icebreakers typically last anywhere from 5 minutes to 20 minutes. It should last enough time for people to feel comfortable and relaxed enough to easily discuss more important topics later on in the meeting.

Do people hate ice breakers?

Many introverts hate ice breakers for a variety of reasons. Whereas many extroverts actually enjoy being in the spotlight, for introverts, it tends to be overwhelming and overstimulating. Also, icebreakers are supposed to move quickly, so theres little time to think about what youre going to say or do.

How do you deal with icebreakers?

“Write down your favorite icebreaker question or anything you want to know about people on a post-it. Now go around the room and find a partner and ask your question. When I say switch, exchange the post-it and find another partner.” Its interesting to find out what questions people ask, and how others will respond.

Is eating too many IceBreakers bad?

We go through a box every month (8 per box). The only caution is that the Xylitol (the fake alcohol sugar they are sweetened with) can cause some folks stomachs to become upset (grumbly) if they eat too many.