problem solving ice breaker virtual

35 Icebreakers Perfect for Virtual and Hybrid Meetings

We’ve all been there – the start of a virtual or hybrid meeting where there’s an awkward silence. But this can be a thing of the past when you introduce the humble icebreaker to get people talking and loosen them up.

Our list of  35 different virtual icebreakers and team-building activities for 2023 have all been tried, tested, and enjoyed by team Slido – even by the introverts among us.

We’ll enlighten you first on what exactly a virtual icebreaker is, and why it’s good to have one on hand for your next meeting. Breaking the ice has never been this easy!

What are virtual icebreakers?

Virtual icebreakers are small interactive activities that are used to lighten the mood, typically at the start of a meeting.

They are great conversation starters – they help energize people, drive lively discussions, and encourage the participants to be more active throughout the meeting.

With online and hybrid meetings , virtual icebreakers can help make your video conference call more personal and allow your colleagues to get to know each other better and enjoy some social time.

From quick icebreaker questions to longer ice-breaking games – pick your favorite ones!

• Quick icebreaker questions
• Short virtual icebreaker activities
• Icebreaker games & Team building activities

1. Quick virtual icebreaker questions

These are great rapid-fire questions to energize your participants and kick-start a conversation.

Read also: List of 200 Icebreaker Questions For Meetings and Tips On How to Use Them

#1. Mood barometer: How are you feeling today?

The classic “So, how are you folks doing?” usually gets you only a couple of reluctant answers. Ask your team how they are in a different way this time – try it with a poll .

For example, check the overall energy in the room by running a rating poll such as: “On a scale of 1-7, how are you feeling today?” Or, “What’s your energy level today?”

Everyone can contribute and so you’ll take an instant pulse check on how everyone is feeling before the meeting.

Use the poll results as a discussion starter: “I can see that not everyone is feeling at their best. Does anyone want to share their thoughts?”

Create your own poll in Slido and engage your audience. Sign up below and try it for yourself.

Sign up for free

#2. Would you rather…?

A would you rather virtual icebreaker question is guaranteed to spark a lively discussion at the start of your meeting and help with breaking the ice.

Simply ask your participants a thought-provoking ‘this or that’ poll question with two options to choose from. Then, drive a discussion around how people voted and why.

Here are some of our favorite would you rather questions:

• Would you live in the Arctic or in the Sahara Desert?
• Would you rather be always overdressed or underdressed?
• Have 2 meter long legs or 2 meter long arms?
• Time travel back to the past or to the future?

Read also: 101 Would You Rather Questions to Cheer Up Your Meetings

#3. Quiz question of the day

Or, why don’t you start with a little guessing game? Everyone loves quizzes as ice breakers and so a little brain teaser at the beginning of your meeting will perk your colleagues up.

This is an ideal virtual icebreaker for recurring meetings. If you and your team meet regularly, you can turn this into a tradition and run one quiz question at the start of every one of your meetings.

How to pull this off?

Simply create a quiz poll question in Slido and mark one option as correct. You can use our integrations with Google Slides and PowerPoint to insert the poll directly into your slides.

What’s more, you don’t even have to think up quiz questions. Our ‘magic cube’ random question generator will do that for you.

#4. Where are you joining from?

If your teammates are scattered around the world, kick off your meeting by sending a virtual hi to each one of them.

At the beginning of your conference call, run a word cloud with the question: “Where are you joining from?”

This is one of the best virtual icebreakers for large meetings or virtual events – the more locations, the better the word cloud will look.

As your colleagues post their locations, give them a special shout-out.

You’ll even be able to see if participants are still typing or not with Slido’s typing indicator feature when you’re in present mode – so that everyone gets their chance to participate before you move on.

Read also: 35+ Word Cloud Examples for Your Meetings and Events

#5. In one word, how would you describe…?

You can also use word clouds to pick up your team’s thoughts and feelings. Open your meeting with a question such as: “In one word, how would you describe the past week/month?”

This is one of the virtual ice breakers that will help you take a pulse check of the overall atmosphere in the team and detect possible downturns – especially handy in a virtual setup.

Or, you can even try something different like: “If you were to describe our company in one word, what would it be?”

#6. Good old times

If you need a guaranteed conversation starter, try a question that brings back childhood or teenage years memories – they provide an inexhaustible source of amusement.

You can use word clouds here as well.

• Which was your favorite candy you were hoping to get when trick-or-treating? (A perfect icebreaker to use before Halloween.)
• Which music band was your favorite growing up?

After people submit their answers, ask volunteers to share how they voted and why.

There will be a lot to talk about, maybe even some arguments about which candy or which movie is the best. You’ll start a meeting with some laughs and get your colleagues in a good mood before a meeting.

Read also: The Best 110 Trivia Questions for Team Bonding Quizzes

#7. Rank your favorites

Similar to the previous virtual icebreaker, you can engage people in ranking their favorite things, whether from their childhood or not – the possibilities are endless.

Use a ranking poll question, add as many options as you wish, and let your participants rank them.

Here are some ideas:

• Rank these 90s movies from your most favorite to your least favorite.
• Rank these Christmas movies from a must-watch to the most passable one.
• Rank these Harry Potter movies from the best to your least favorite.

After your participants are done voting, display the chart with the winners and the runner-ups. Expect a lively discussion – people tend to passionately root for their darlings!

#8. Say it with an emoji

Here’s another way to get a sense of how your team members are feeling – let them express it with emojis. For example, at the start of your meeting, ask your colleagues:

“Which emoji best describes your current state of mind?”

You can use a Slido word cloud for that, but instead of words, your participants will submit an emoji. This works best with larger meetings and events when a large number of emojis gets submitted.

Here are some other ideas for emoji icebreakers:

• Describe our team with an emoji.
• Use an emoji to describe your ideal vacation.
• Which emoji do you use most frequently?

This is an ideal virtual icebreaker if you’re looking for a simple activity that anyone can participate in, for example, as you’re waiting for others to join the meeting.

Read also: 80+ Best Poll Questions To Ask Your Online Audience

2. Short virtual icebreaker activities

These are great if you want to surprise your participants with a fun little activity and enjoy some bonding time.

#9. Draw your mood

Instead of verbally asking your colleagues how they are at the start of your meeting (which often results in a half-baked ‘fine’, or ‘okay’ here and there), ask them to draw how they are. It’s much more fun and you’ll spark creativity among your colleagues.

During our recent Brand Team meeting, our colleague, Sabine, shared a Zoom Whiteboard with us and asked us to draw our current mood on it. So we channeled our inner Basquiat and came up with something that remotely resembles art. But it was so much fun, we swear!

Note: Are you running your meetings in a hybrid setup ? Then make sure that each of your on-site team members joins the video conferencing call from their own device so they can participate in the activity.

#10. Highlight of the month

Here’s a great way to lift people’s spirits. Crowdsource your colleagues’ personal or professional highlights from the last week or month.

Thanks to this virtual icebreaker, you can see what other people have been up to and have experienced, and you can celebrate some of your top moments.

As you kick off your meeting, ask your teammates to post their highlights in an open text poll . Then, display the highlights on the screen, and give a shout-out to each one.

It’s good to remind people of all the remarkable work that they’ve done. For example, in our Slido marketing team, we share highlights as part of our monthly all-marketing meeting.

#11. Unsung heroes

This is not only an icebreaker but a morale booster as well. And we all need that now and then, especially when working in isolation.

Give kudos to the heroes in your team. Kick off your meeting with a word cloud poll such as: “Who was your silent hero this month?”

Acknowledging people for the effort they’re putting in is a wonderful way to start a meeting. Expect lots of hearty “awws”.

💡 Tip Combine the word cloud with an open text poll , so that people can also leave a heart-warming message for their nominated silent hero.

#12. What are you thankful for?

This ice-breaking activity is ideal, for instance, before Thanksgiving or as a morale booster during special team meetings.

Ask people to submit what they are grateful for or who from the team they would like to thank.

You may open your meeting with this question, either via word cloud or an open text poll , and wait for your team members’ submissions.

Then, display people’s submissions on the screen and ask your colleagues to share what they put in and why.

It’s a nice bonding moment and helps you start the meeting on a positive note.

#13. Team photo

A list of virtual icebreakers wouldn’t be complete without a group photo! This one’s as much fun through a video chat as much as it is in real life. And you can repeat it time and time again by taking a different picture each time — make funny faces, bring in your pets, do a crazy gesture, be creative.

Take inspiration from our Customer Care Team!

💡 Tip These photos also make nice content for your social media, internal newsletters, or Slack channels!

#14. Guess whose desk?

Get to know your colleagues a little better, and take a sneak-peek into their home work stations. This virtual icebreaker is a mixture of ‘Guess who?’ and a house tour.

Collect pictures from your colleagues of their desks at home and add them into Slido multiple choice polls with a question: “Can you guess whose desk this is?” and give several options.

Then, once at a meeting, let your colleagues guess away!

#15. Weekend photo contest

A slow start after the weekend? Run a quick weekend photo contest to get your teammates talking. Tell them to share a cool photo from their weekend – for example in a Slack channel.

You can then put people’s names in a Slido multiple choice poll and have your colleagues vote for the best shot!

#16. What’s the last picture that you took?

Similar to the previous virtual icebreaker, this one is probably even more fun: Ask your colleagues to go to their phones, and dig out the last photo that they took. Ask them to either post it to your Slack channel or simply show it to the camera. Then, ask them to share a story behind the picture (if it’s not a secret!).

It’s a sweet little activity to make people talk and get to know one another better.

#17. Random question of the week

Here’s another one from the ‘Get to know your colleagues better’ virtual icebreakers. Set up a new tradition and ask your team one random question each week or month.

For example:

• What’s the most useless thing you have in your home?
• What would your superpower be if you had one?
• What one thing should everybody stop doing right now?
• What’s one song or artist that you’re embarrassed to admit you like?

We actually started doing this as a weekly activity in our #random Slack channel. We’ve since learned so many cool new things about one another!

3. Virtual icebreaker games & Team building activities

These are great get-to-know-you games and longer team-building activities that will both entertain and bring the team closer together.

#18. Home scavenger hunt

Begin this team building activity by getting your colleagues out of their chairs. This virtual icebreaker is fun and you’ll all get a chance to move around a little. Give your teammates a little task such as: “You have 25 seconds to fetch something yellow,” or “Get the weirdest thing in your apartment, then bring it back to show us”.

You can even take it a little further and play a full-scale virtual scavenger hunt. We recently played it in our Brand team and it was so much fun. Our colleague, Nadia, gave us 5 minutes to fulfill 20 tasks such as:

• Take a picture of a view from your window and post it to Slack
• Find something smaller than your fingernail
• Bring the softest thing you own
• Change your background to your favorite movie set
• Bring an item that’s older than you are

And on a hunt we went.

When the time was up, we got back together on the call and shared funny stories behind the objects that we brought. We shared some good laughs together!

#19. Team trivia quiz

Using virtual icebreakers during your meetings also helps you get to know your colleagues better.

Try a fun trivia quiz with questions about your team. Collect interesting facts about each team member, then let other colleagues guess away. We’re sure you’ll dig out plenty of fun stuff!

We run this type of quiz when we introduce a new team member, or as a holiday fun activity.

Read also: 7 Awesome Quizzes for Your Virtual and Hybrid Meetings

#20. Background challenge

Share some laughs with your teammates on the call. Before your next all-hands or town hall meeting, set a theme and ask your colleagues to pick a virtual background image that, for them, represents it best.

Get creative. Favorite movie scenes, 80’s disco, memes, dream vacation places – the possibilities are endless.

Seeing each other’s backgrounds will break the ice and give you something to talk about during the first minutes of the call.

But virtual backgrounds do more than just entertain . They’re also great for hiding a messy kitchen behind you, or a trespassing family member!

If you need inspiration, visit this huge library of virtual backgrounds by Canva, or get more quirky ones here .

💡 Tip You can also let your colleagues vote for the best background through a Slido poll .

#21. Two truths & one lie

This fun game is great for introducing new colleagues or getting to know each other better. Collect three statements about each of your colleagues – two of them should be true facts and one should be a lie. Tell your colleagues to provide a lie that’s not so obvious so as to make it harder for others to guess.

Next, put all of the collected statements into Slido multiple choice polls , or you can make it a live quiz .

💡 Tip Don’t forget to ask the person who the poll is about to share at least one story behind the statements.

#22. Struggle sharing

Sharing is caring – and that should apply to both the good and the bad. Similar to sharing highlights (see point #10), it’s important to also give our attention to things that didn’t go so well; things that we can learn from, and move forward together.

It makes for a great team bonding experience.

Depending on the setup you’re in, divide your colleagues into smaller groups (if you’re in an online setup, use breakout rooms) and ask them to discuss their struggles. It can be both professional and personal.

Using an open text poll , encourage your team to share their failure or struggle in Slido as well so that people can see that they’re not alone in being imperfect. You can then regroup and open a discussion about lessons that people learned from their failures.

As a leader, don’t forget to contribute as well. Showing vulnerability is also a form of strength.

Read also: How Talking About Wins and Struggles Helped Our Team Bond

#23. Show & Tell

Inspired by the classic kindergarten exercise where kids bring an object to school and describe it to their fellow pupils, show and tell is a great activity for getting to know the team better.

Tell your colleagues to bring an object that has special meaning to them or that is tied to an exciting story. Give each group member 3-5 minutes to tell the rest of the group about it.

This virtual icebreaker is ideal for small teams (or done in groups) because people might not be willing to talk in front of larger crowds of people.

💡 Tip Don’t forget to give people enough time to think about their story and prepare for the short presentation. Not everybody is happy with improvising.

#24. Guess who?

This is another great get-to-know-each-other-better game, inspired by our Head of User Research, Neil Sharman.

In one of the meetings, he asked everyone to anonymously submit into Slido three brands they know they ‘love a bit more than is logical’.

Then, he displayed people’s submissions on the screen and the team guessed who is who just from the three brands. It’s fun to identify people, plus everyone gets to share something about themselves. You’ll definitely learn a lot of interesting stuff about each other.

💡 Tip It doesn’t necessarily have to be about brands. It can be music, hobbies, movies, etc.

#25. Coffee time

Have you heard of Fika ? It’s a Swedish word often interpreted as ‘a coffee and cake break’.

For Swedes, however, it is much more than that. It’s about taking a break from everything for a while and enjoying quality time with friends or colleagues over a cup of coffee or tea.

Take Fika to an online environment. You can call it whatever you like – virtual watercooler talks, virtual happy hour – it’s your choice.

But be sure to schedule an informal team catch-up from time to time just to chat with your teammates about something other than work. In remote times, it will help you feel less isolated.

#26. Visual brainstorming

Good productive idea exchanges make for great virtual icebreakers too. Instead of just shouting ideas at each other, try visual brainstorming.

Take advantage of one of the visual collaboration tools such as Mural . We tried it recently during our Brand team meeting and it was an hour well spent – productive, creative, and fun.

We set up a virtual whiteboard, and each of us was supposed to write our ideas on little stickers that we then posted on the board. It nicely simulated a real-life brainstorming session .

#27. Meet up in a virtual bar

If remote work or distributed team setup doesn’t allow you to enjoy an after-work beer with your colleagues, why don’t you go for a virtual alternative?

In our Brand team, we recently tried Kumospace – an immersive video chat that allows you to ‘meet’ your colleagues in a virtual bar (or other space), move around, or create smaller chat groups.

Oh, and don’t forget to get a drink. The app will even remind you when it’s time for a refill!

There are other apps that provide immersive team experiences, for example, Topia . With this one, you can even design your own virtual world. It’s good to have a change of scenery, isn’t it?

#28. Never Have I Ever

While you’re all hanging out together in this virtual bar (see point above), why don’t you play a game? If you’re familiar with Never Have I Ever, you surely know how much fun it is – especially with more juicy questions. It’s simple: Each of you will hold out your hand so everyone can see your fingers.

One of you will read questions such as: “Never have I ever gone skinny dipping.” Whenever one of you has done it, he or she will put one finger down.

This icebreaker activity is awesome for getting to know your colleagues better and have a good laugh together while sharing funny stories behind each finger down!

If you need inspiration for Never Have I Ever questions, find 250 of them here .

#29. Donut friends

When was the last time you randomly bumped into someone in a hallway in your office and shared a good chat with them? Or, had a deep conversation about life, the universe, and everything with a bunch of colleagues in a kitchenette or by the watercooler? Before we can enjoy this again, try Donut.

Donut is an app for Slack that randomly pairs two or three colleagues together for a scheduled video call. You can make use of that time however you like: Have a virtual coffee, a peer learning session, or a chat about a book that you recently read.

The best thing is that it gets you together with teammates with whom you wouldn’t normally talk or interact on a daily basis. Sounds like a nice way to foster new friendships in the workplace, doesn’t it?

#30. Online escape room

Need a full-scale team-building activity? Try a virtual escape room. If you’ve ever experienced the real thing, you surely know that it’s as much fun as it is nerve-wracking! It involves dealing with various challenges, finding codes, and completing puzzles in order to “get out of the room”.

It’s the ultimate team bonding experience – if your teammates love a good game, they’re going to be fans. There are plenty of escape room platforms out there, for example, Escape Live . You can choose from various different session types or themes.

#31. Virtual wine tasting

Even if you’re remote, you don’t have to give up the good old wine or beer-tasting sessions. Sure, it’s a bit harder to pull off in a virtual setting, but not impossible. Just agree on a brand or type – or buy a different wine each, so you can tell each other about the subtle tones you’re getting!

Our People team has recently done a wine-tasting call and it was a great team bonding experience.

It lets you enjoy some informal time with your colleagues, which, amid all the meetings is a nice change. Plus, you get to indulge in some fine beverages, what a treat!

#32. Pair & Share

This is a great virtual icebreaker that allows for more intimate conversations among your teammates. If you’re familiar with breakout rooms , you’ll appreciate this one.

Give your colleagues a thought-provoking question to ponder, then pair them randomly using breakout rooms (check whether your video conferencing tool allows for it).

Next, allow all groups a couple of minutes to discuss the topic before coming back to the main room to share what each pair talked about.

This is a great alternative to the ‘turn to your neighbor’ kind of exercise – it’s interactive, and allows for more in-depth discussion between people. Introverts will appreciate this, as it feels more comfortable to share something in a pair, compared to the whole team.

#33. Online games

Online team-building games are fun and social – they encourage interaction among coworkers and help bring back the camaraderie of a physical office.

The depths of the internet is full of options, but to inspire you, we recently discovered Bored – a suite of Slack games for remote teams. You simply add the tool to your company Slack and play fun games with your colleagues right in the Slack channel.

Apart from the ever-popular game of trivia, Bored has games in which you roast your colleagues, or play a game of accusations and deception. Recently, they launched ‘Icebreakers’ to help teammates get to know each other better by answering questions that are unconventional and fun.

#34. Name that sound

Looking for a more sophisticated guessing game? How about guessing the sounds? This is one of the most challenging virtual icebreakers, but it’s ultimately very satisfying!

It’s simple. You turn your cameras off, leaving only audio on, and then you make some sort of a sound close to the mic so that your colleagues are able to hear it, and guess where it comes from.

Here are the instructions:

#35. Group storytelling

Put your improvisation skills to the test. This virtual icebreaker is inspired by my colleague Sabine, who decided that since our team-building trip couldn’t happen this year, at least we’ll make up a cool story of how it went.

She created a slideshow of random travel pictures, started a story, and then called on one of our teammates to follow up on what she had said, based on what picture was currently up.

We took turns in telling crazy things we did during our imaginary trip and let me tell you, it was some ride!

Ready to break the ice at your meetings?

We hope you’ll try one of these virtual icebreakers at your next online meeting. Let Slido help you connect with your teammates, wherever they are.

Try Slido for free

Get just a single email per month with our best articles.

5 Slido Activities to Build Psychological Safety In Your Team

At the center of a working environment with high levels of trust is the magic ingredient: psychological safety.  If you’re...

7 Ways to Celebrate Your Team in Your End-Of-Year Meetings

As 2023 draws to a close and with 2024 in sight, we’ll all be taking a look back at what...

The Top 80+ Poll Question Ideas to Ask Your Online Audience

Whether you’re running a meeting, hosting a training, webinar, or speaking at an event, polls are your best friend. They...

25 fun icebreakers for virtual meetings

Icebreakers can help teams get to know each other, increase creativity, and improve team cohesion. Use these icebreakers to enhance your next virtual meeting.

• Icebreaker questions for virtual meetings
• Icebreaker activities for virtual meetings
• Icebreaker games for virtual meetings

Across many industries, working from home and an evolving environment of hybrid, distributed, or remote teams has become the norm. 

With these changes come many advantages for individuals as they navigate life and work — people spend fewer hours commuting, and can focus on being effective first and foremost, instead of just physically present. As a result, individual productivity has gone up, but it has come at a cost: Team productivity has gone down. 

How do we facilitate better teamwork in a virtual environment?

The key element to better teamwork, whether in person or remote, is connection. The more connected your teammates, coworkers, or employees feel, the more effective and productive the group becomes. 

So, how can we build better connections in a remote workforce?

Just having more meetings isn’t the answer (in fact, it can even make the problem worse). The key is to build intentional and meaningful collaborative experiences into your work. These experiences can take many forms, but one effective approach is to use icebreakers to kick off a meeting.  

What is an icebreaker?

An icebreaker is a team-building activity that helps group members get to know each other and feel more comfortable. Often used in team meetings or to introduce new students in a class, icebreakers foster a sense of community and help build rapport between colleagues, students, or team members.

Icebreaker activities can vary widely, but there are three main types of icebreakers: 

• Questions : Icebreaker questions are often simple conversation starters that provide an opportunity for team members or participants to find common ground or share something about themselves. 
• Activities : Icebreaker activities are a bit more interactive and may involve an aspect of problem-solving. ‍
• Games : Icebreaker games allow people to relax and have fun while communicating and collaborating. While these are the most engaging, they also take the most time to run.

Each approach can be as elaborate or as simple as you like — if you’re short on time or have a large group, just having a question in mind can do the trick. If you have a larger team, activities or games are sometimes the best options since they will allow for natural opportunities to break out into smaller teams or subgroups.

Below are 25 examples of icebreakers you can use to kick off a more impactful virtual meeting:

15 Icebreaker questions for virtual meetings

Icebreaker questions are an easy way to build connection over a video call. Other than Zoom or Microsoft Teams, you don’t need any extra tools or support. Simply ask the question, give your participants time to think about an answer, and let the team bonding begin!

1. Where in the world are you?

If you’re kicking off a virtual meeting with a new team, chances are you’re not all located in the same city or region (or even country). Have participants describe the city or town where they live, and name something they find iconic about that place.

2. What is your favorite film, TV series, or book?

Have everyone introduce themselves and give a 30-second pitch for their favorite film, show, or book. Did you know that your new Product Manager was super into Film Noir because of the underlying structure that mysteries provide both the narrative and the viewer? No? Well, now you do — and you’ve learned a little bit about how she thinks as well.

Related: team bookshelf template

3. What are your favorite foods?

For this exercise, have your team introduce themselves and then describe one dish that they love, and what it means to them. This is an easy way to get people talking, and again offers insight into people’s personal history, likes and dislikes, and even ways of working. Also, a shared digital space can help make this even more engaging — and even educational (new recipes, anyone?).

‍ Related: team feast template

4. If you could choose to have any superpower, which would you choose?

Ask your team to choose one or more superpowers (typically one, for the sake of keeping it short) that they might wish they had as a way to help them understand one another’s values and approaches to work. You could also tie this to an existing superhero, or even a feature film (since most of them seem to be about superheroes these days).

5. What was your very first job?

Ask each of your team members to share what they did in their first job, and (of course) bonus points for any funny stories that went with it. (Did you know that the ‘E’ in Chuck E. Cheese stands for ‘Entertainment?’ You’re welcome.)

6. What’s your nickname?

When establishing relationships, it can be good to learn familiar ways to refer to one another (pending comfort zones, of course), and the backstory angle adds a twist that can be fun and unexpected. Have everyone introduce themselves, and then share their nicknames and the backstories that go with them.

7. What animal are you?

Go around the meeting participants and hear what animal they think represents them the best. What animal each participant relates to the most may say a lot about them! Give a little bit of time before starting to let participants think about animals and what their favorite says about them.

8. What’s your cure for hiccups?

People sometimes have some pretty original ideas about how to do this! Also, it’s a lighthearted and unobtrusive way to kick things off with some potentially funny outcomes. Ask everyone to introduce themselves, and then encourage them to share a unique method of escaping the hiccups — you never quite know whom you’ll be helping along the way!

9. What’s the weirdest way you’ve met someone and become friends?

This offers teammates a way to share a personal (and probably funny) story without much risk, and gives everyone a chance to talk about not only themselves but their friends. Have everyone introduce themselves, and then share a short (1-2 minute) origin story behind one of their friendships.

10. What video game have you spent hours playing?

Just about everyone has played video games at some point in their lives (guilty), so it’s a pretty safe bet. Bonus points if you are familiar with the classics (and by that of course I mean NBA Jam and Crash Bandicoot).

11. What was cool when you were younger but isn’t cool now?

Does anyone remember parachute pants? The only risk involved in this one is that some folks are more sensitive than others about revealing their (approximate) age, but outside of that, the results are often hilarious. Use your discretion.

12. What's the first album you ever bought?

Again, there is the slight risk here of people feeling uncomfortable about age, but in our experience, many people love the opportunity to reminisce — a good follow-up question is what format. (Vinyl is back! But then, my first album was on a cassette tape — not back, yet…)

13. Who is your celebrity lookalike?

Ask your teammates to share the celebrity that people say resembles them most, and include an image reference if possible. With a visual platform, you could also gamify the experience by having everyone vote anonymously for the most convincing doppelgänger.

14. What's your go-to karaoke song?

This can be a fun way to introduce favorite kinds of music, with potentially hilarious outcomes. Also, singing has been shown to mediate fast social bonding . Bonus points if people have good stories about why they selected their songs — or particularly memorable performances.

15. What are the last 3 emojis you typed in your phone?

It’s hard to predict, but this one could get interesting, so our advice is to use only with established teams. Given that there are so many ways to interpret emojis (and, in fact, those interpretations often change across demographics), this exercise can also be useful in terms of clearing up any potential miscommunications across your team in platforms like Slack, or other tools where emoji reactions have become ubiquitous.

[Bonus] Virtual icebreaker question generator

Look, sometimes you just want to click a button and get a great icebreaker for your next virtual meeting. That’s why we created this simple icebreaker generator — so you can get a quick icebreaker idea and focus on running better team meetings.

{{icebreaker-generator="/cta-components"}}

These questions can help people open up, get to know one another, and spark further discussion (and even friendships) down the road.

Want more questions to break the ice? Check out these 100 icebreaker questions to get the conversation started .

5 Icebreaker activities for virtual meetings

One thing that can make for a good icebreaker is building strategies for working together in an open and informal way. Activities offer opportunities for team members to work together in a format that is lighthearted, but still impactful.

If you’re running a larger meeting with more than 10 people, you may want to create teams and have them run the icebreaker in a breakout room. Once 5-10 minutes have passed, bring everyone back together and share the funniest moments from the activity.

16. One-minute introductions

Short introductions are a good way to take the pressure off people when getting to know one another and set expectations. For brevity’s sake, it’s best to break it down into simple categories such as first name, last name, and one fact about each person.

17. Define ways of working together

Working together to build a team charter is a great way to learn about teammates as well as establish ground rules for engagement. Define things like: What’s the best way to get in touch? Do you prefer asynchronous work or would you rather set a meeting? How are you accustomed to collaborating with teammates? How have you handled this in your previous experiences?

We’d recommend using a visual medium for this, like the hybrid team charter template , so teammates can get a better understanding of their virtual and physical workplaces, as well as more information about time zones for synchronous and asynchronous communication.

18. Share your workspace

This activity is centered on sharing the space around you. Have everyone introduce themselves and then pick out one aspect of their workspace that is important to them.

Note: Using a visual platform where still images can be provided instead of live video can mitigate any potential discomfort during a team meeting. It can also inform colleagues about ways of working together and work styles that can build empathy and spark conversation.

19. Most embarrassing stories

It’s a fine line (so having some guidelines like ‘work appropriate’ for stories up front is the way to go), but when people share personal stories, it offers diverse groups an immediate window into their colleagues’ experiences, and fosters empathy and understanding that has measurable, positive effects on team creativity. As people introduce themselves, ask them to pick a 1-2 minute anecdote that was embarrassing for them in the past, and what they learned from the experience.

20. Show and tell

This one is a throwback to elementary school — but it’s still fun! Have everyone pick an item they want to share with the group, and allot 1-2 minutes per person to keep things moving. Questions and back stories encouraged! 

Pro-tip: If you want to add more visual interest to this activity, you can use the (free) Mural show and tell template and have all your meeting attendees submit photos before the meeting starts.

5 Icebreaker games for virtual meetings

Sometimes a little (unserious) competition can be a great way to build camaraderie — here are a few of our favorite icebreaker games for virtual meetings.

21. Company trivia

See how well your team members know the organization with a simple trivia game, and reward the winners with kudos (or maybe even a little swag?). This can be as quick as 5 company-related questions, or more involved, like a traditional game show. Just make sure the emphasis is heavy on family and light on feud (jokes!).

Related: try the Mural trivia game template

22. Throwback photos

This one is both a walk down memory lane, as well as a nice opportunity for some good natured humor. To run this game, have all your attendees send the facilitator an image of themselves as a child prior to the meeting so that you can get started right away, and then take turns guessing who’s who. 

23. Name that tune

Play a snippet of a song (or better yet, sing a few lyrics, strum a couple chords — anything you can do to make music) and see who can be first to guess the name. If you want to make it more difficult, ask your attendees to guess the artist and the year as well!

24. Two truths and a lie 

This is a classic icebreaker that can easily be played virtually. To play, each person will share three things about themselves, two of which are true and one of which is a lie. Everyone else in the group then has to try to guess which of the three things is the lie.

25. Virtual scavenger hunt 

This is a great icebreaker for larger groups as it encourages people to work together in teams. To play, divide the group into teams and give each team a list of items or tasks that they need to find or complete within a certain time limit. The team that finds or completes the most items on the list wins.

Alternatively, you can apply this same approach to smaller groups, with the Mural obstacle course template — whoever accomplishes all the tasks first gets a (virtual) gold medal!

Why should you use icebreakers?

Whichever approach you choose, icebreakers are meant to be a fun opportunity to get to know your team, while at the same time having a measurable, positive impact on team performance.

When people are more comfortable, they are more likely to participate and engage in your meeting, leading to stronger connections and better group outcomes. But how can you make people feel comfortable in a new, virtual setting?

Icebreakers contribute to are an important part of an environment of great stepping stone to psychological safety — that is, an atmosphere of respect that promotes confidence among team members that they can share their thoughts, feedback, and concerns without fear of retribution. This approach leads to a greater diversity of ideas, and ultimately more productive meetings.

Note: These benefits are why icebreakers get used in classroom settings , too

By allowing people to relax, find ways to relate to one another, and connect with each other on more informal terms, icebreakers can help set the baseline of mutual trust and respect that can grow into healthy and productive working relationships in the future, and even reinforce existing friendships.

More ways to break the ice

Yes, icebreakers can sometimes feel cheesy, but it's a fun way to learn more about your coworkers, build trust among team members, and make online meetings more engaging.

These are some of our favorites, but we love new ideas and ways of working together. We’re constantly adding to (and improving) our template library. Also, if you’re looking for warm-ups and energizers , icebreaker questions , or icebreakers for small groups , we have you covered. 

What is Mural?

Mural is the visual work platform that allows all kinds of teams to do better work together — from anywhere. Team members get aligned faster with templates, prompts, and proven methods that guide them to quickly solve any problem. They can gather their ideas and feedback in one spot, allowing them to see the big picture of any project and act decisively. 

That’s what happens when you change not just where, but how you work.

Get started with the free, forever plan with Mural to start collaborating with your team. Don’t forget to break the ice first!

About the authors

Bryan Kitch

Tagged Topics

Related blog posts

Why check-ins should be part of your team meeting culture

15 celebration ideas for virtual & hybrid teams

100 icebreaker questions to get the conversation started

Related blog posts.

Team collaboration software: A buyer’s guide

How to run efficient Agile meetings [+ templates]

The best use cases of AI in project management

• Team Building
• Escape the city
• Scavenger Quest
• About Contact

40 Fun Ice Breakers for Virtual Meetings

Want to inject some energy into your meetings? Your solution is right here! Spice things up with these 40 creative ice breakers for virtual meetings!

In today’s world of virtual and hybrid meetings, it can be challenging to connect with everyone and keep things engaging for every team member.

Without being in the same room, it is easy for people to feel disconnected or distracted. This is where effective virtual icebreakers come in!

We have assembled 40 fun ice breakers that are not just about breaking the ice ; they are designed to create authentic connections and build deeper bonds between team members, creating synergy and benefitting your organization as a whole.

Let us not delay! More details await.

What are Virtual Icebreakers?

Virtual icebreakers are introductory activities designed to ease interaction and build rapport among participants in online activities and settings, such as meetings, webinars, and training sessions.

These activities aim to set a positive tone by breaking down initial barriers between team members who may never see each other face to face. They also foster a sense of connection and create an engaging atmosphere conducive to collaboration.

Virtual icebreakers come in various forms, from quick and easy activities prompting participants to share thoughts to more involved games demanding teamwork and cooperation.

Quick Virtual Icebreaker Questions

Get ready to spice up your virtual meetings with these quick virtual icebreaker questions!

1. Would You Rather…?

“Would You Rather…?” questions ignite lively discussions and add fun to any gathering by presenting participants with two hypothetical scenarios to choose between.

This engaging icebreaker encourages people to share their preferences . It also sparks conversations and healthy discussions and reveals unique insights about each participant.

Here are a few intriguing examples to get the conversation flowing.

• Would you rather have the ability to fly or be invisible?
• Would you rather journey back in time to meet your ancestors or forward to see your descendants?
• Would you rather be able to speak all languages fluently or play every musical instrument perfectly?
• Would you rather live in a world where it is always daytime or nighttime?
• Would you rather have the power to control the elements or have the power to teleport anywhere instantly?

2. Quiz Question of the Day

Why not kick things off with a fun quiz question of the day? Quizzes make great icebreakers , so starting your meeting with a brain teaser will surely excite your colleagues.

Participants can take turns answering the question, sharing their knowledge, and even competing for the correct answer.

This game not only adds an element of fun to meetings but also promotes learning, team bonding, and ongoing engagement among participants.

3. Mood Barometer

Instead of the usual “ How is everyone doing? ” which often gets just a few responses, try a different approach this time – like using a poll.

A “Mood Barometer” involves presenting a captivating trivia question at the start of each meeting. This activity encourages active participation and stimulates the collective intellect of the group.

After answering the question, participants can rate their energy levels using a quick poll. The poll allows facilitators to gauge the group’s enthusiasm and adjust the meeting dynamics accordingly.

Here are some example questions and discussion prompts to kickstart the session.

• What is the capital city of Australia? (Have you ever visited the capital city of Australia?)
• In which year did the Titanic sink? (What do you find fascinating about the story of the Titanic?)
• Who painted the Mona Lisa? (Do you have a favorite painting by Leonardo da Vinci?)
• What is the tallest mountain in the world? (Have you ever climbed a mountain or dreamed of doing so?)

4. In One Word, How Would You Describe…?

“In One Word, How Would You Describe…?” prompts participants to condense their thoughts into one word.

This icebreaker fosters concise communication and meaningful discussions. It also encourages creativity and provides valuable insights into individuals’ perceptions and emotions.

The facilitators can use word clouds to represent participants’ responses to enhance engagement visually. This creates a collective reflection of the group’s thoughts and feelings.

Here are some examples of questions tailored for pulse checks and team reflections.

• In one word, how would you describe your mood today?
• How would you summarize your energy level right now?
• What word comes to mind when you think about our current project status?
• Describe your expectations for today’s meeting in one word.
• What word best captures your overall well-being at the moment?
• In one word, how would you describe our team’s communication style?
• What word comes to mind about our team’s collaboration efforts?
• Describe the culture of our team in one word.
• How would you summarize our team’s recent achievements in a single word?
• What word best represents the atmosphere of our team meetings?

5. Where Are You Joining From?

If your teammates are spread across the globe, why not start your meeting by sending each of them a virtual greeting?

Kick things off with a word cloud, asking, “Where are you joining from?” This works wonders for large meetings or virtual events – the more locations, the more colorful the word cloud will be.

As your colleagues eagerly share their locations during the virtual icebreaker, acknowledge each contribution with a personalized shout-out.

By asking this question, facilitators acknowledge the diverse backgrounds of participants and create an opportunity for individuals to share a bit about themselves and their geographic location.

6. Rank Your Favorites

You can get people involved by having them rank their favorite things , whether from their childhood or otherwise – the options are limitless.

Use a ranking poll question, include as many options as you would like, and allow your participants to prioritize them. Here are some examples of ranking poll questions tailored for team bonding.

• Rank your favorite types of cuisine from 1 to 5 (1 being the most favorite and 5 being the least favorite): Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Indian, Japanese.
• Please rank the following outdoor activities in order of preference (1 being the most desired and 5 being the least preferred): hiking, cycling, camping, kayaking, and rock climbing.
• Rank your top three favorite movies of all time (1 being the most favorite and 3 being the least favorite).
• Please rank the following genres of music according to your preference (1 being the most preferred and five being the least preferred): pop, rock, hip-hop, jazz, classical.
• Rank your preferred relaxation methods from 1 to 4 (1 for the most preferred and 4 being the least preferred): reading, watching movies, exercising, meditating.

7. Good Old Times

Tap into nostalgia by asking about childhood or teenage memories for an easy conversation starter. This conversation always sparks laughter and fond recollections.

Here are some conversation starters for the “Good Old Times” activity.

• What was your favorite childhood TV show or cartoon?
• Did you have a favorite toy or game growing up?
• What was your most memorable family vacation or trip?
• Can you remember a funny or embarrassing moment from your childhood?
• Who did you admire or look up to during your childhood?

After everyone shares their answers, invite volunteers to explain their choices. This activity will ignite lively discussions and even spark debates over the best candy or movie.

8. Emoji Introduction

Here is another engaging activity to gauge the mood of your team members – invite them to express their emotions using emojis .

Whether representing their name, role, or current mood , each person selects a series of emojis that best encapsulate their identity or how they feel in the moment.

This is an excellent virtual icebreaker for a quick and inclusive activity. It is also perfect while waiting for others to join the meeting.

Short Virtual Icebreaker Activities

Say goodbye to dull meetings and hello to instant engagement with these short icebreaker activities!

9. Unsung Heroes

“Unsung Heroes” is a heartwarming short virtual icebreaker activity aimed at recognizing and appreciating the contributions of colleagues .

This activity breaks the ice and lifts everyone’s spirits, which is much needed, especially when working remotely.

Show appreciation to the unsung heroes in your team. Start your meeting with a word cloud poll asking, “Who was your silent hero this month?”

Recognizing people for their hard work is a fantastic way to kick off a meeting. Prepare for plenty of heartwarming reactions and a smooth, morale-boosting start to any meeting!

10. Highlight of the Month

Here is a wonderful way to uplift everyone’s mood. Invite your colleagues to share their personal or professional highlights from the past week or month.

With this virtual icebreaker, you can discover what others have been up to and celebrate their achievements together.

As you begin your meeting, encourage your teammates to share their highlights using an open text poll. Then, showcase these highlights on the screen and give each one a well-deserved shout-out.

Recognizing and appreciating the actions of your team members is essential for fostering a positive and supportive work environment.

11. What Are You Thankful For?

Here is a heartwarming activity perfect for occasions like Thanksgiving or boosting team spirit during special meetings.

Encouraging team members to express gratitude and appreciation for each other fosters a positive and supportive team culture .

Kickstart your meeting with this question using either a word cloud or an open text poll, and await your team’s responses.

Display these heartfelt submissions on screen and encourage your colleagues to share the reasons behind their choices.

Creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere at the beginning of a meeting sets the tone for productive collaboration and open communication.

12. Guess Whose Desk?

Let us dive into a fun way to bond with your colleagues by getting a glimpse into their home workspaces. This virtual icebreaker combines “Guess Who?” elements with a virtual house tour akin to “MTV Cribs.”

“Guess Whose Desk?” is an engaging, short, virtual icebreaker activity that invites participants to explore their colleagues’ home workstations through an interactive guessing game.

In this activity, facilitators collect photos of each participant’s workspace and share them anonymously with the group.

Based on the visual clues in the photos, participants then took turns guessing whose desk belonged to whom.

13. Travel Bucket List

“Travel Bucket List” is a delightful short virtual icebreaker activity that ignites wanderlust and fosters engaging conversations among team members.

In this activity, each team member is invited to share one destination they would love to visit and briefly explain why it is on their bucket list.

This simple yet effective exercise reveals participants’ interests and aspirations and opens the door to meaningful conversations about travel experiences, cultural interests, and adventurous pursuits.

14. Digital Show and Tell

“Digital Show and Tell” is an engaging short virtual icebreaker activity inspired by the traditional show and tell format.

In this activity, participants are requested to share an interesting item from their digital space , such as a favorite app, website, or gadget.

The participants take turns presenting their chosen item. They will explain why they find it intriguing or valuable.

15. Time Capsule

“Time Capsule” is a captivating, short, virtual icebreaker activity that prompts participants to reflect on the present moment and curate items for a virtual time capsule.

Each team member is invited to share an item they would contribute to represent the current period, whether related to work, a personal memento, or even a screenshot of their current screen.

Participants offer glimpses into their daily lives, interests, and perspectives by selecting and presenting these items. This activity fosters deeper connections and understanding within the group.

16. Team Photo

No virtual icebreaker collection is truly complete without a group photo! It is always a blast, whether in a video chat or in person.

Participants are encouraged to engage in a virtual photo session where they can strike creative poses, use virtual backgrounds, or incorporate props to add humor and personality to the snapshot.

You can do it repeatedly by snapping a new picture each time—try funny faces, bring in your pets, or do something wild.

17. Memory Lane

“Memory Lane” offers a touching virtual icebreaker to strengthen team connections and foster empathy.

Each participant shares a childhood memory or significant life experience during this activity, sparking personal connections and a deeper understanding among team members.

This activity encourages open communication and vulnerability, paving the way for more meaningful interactions and collaborative relationships.

18. What’s the Last Picture That You Took?

Here is another virtual icebreaker that will be a hit: Have your colleagues grab their phones and find the last photo they took.

Invite your colleagues to share the photos in your Slack channel or hold it up to the camera. Finally, ask them to share the story behind the picture ( if it is not too personal! )

This icebreaker is a simple yet delightful activity that encourages conversation and helps everyone get to know each other and their interests better.

19. Weekend Photo Contest

Are you feeling a bit sluggish after the weekend? Get the team chatting with a speedy weekend photo contest.

Sharing snapshots from the weekend can be a delightful way to kick off a meeting and bring a personal touch to the team dynamic.

Whether a snapshot of a scenic hike, a delicious homemade meal, or a fun outing with friends, each photo offers a glimpse into participants’ lives outside work.

20. Five Favorites

“Five Favorites” is a lively virtual icebreaker to uncover shared interests and build connections among team members.

During this activity, participants share five beloved items from categories like movies, books, foods, or hobbies .

Through this sharing, individuals showcase their unique preferences, fostering camaraderie and encouraging meaningful discussions.

This icebreaker promotes attentive listening and sparks engaging conversations as teammates explore mutual interests and exchange recommendations.

21. Random Question of the Week

Here is another excellent icebreaker to help you bond with your colleagues: Start a new tradition by asking your team a random question each week or month.

In this activity, facilitators or team members pose a thought-provoking or fun question to the group at the beginning of each week.

These random questions can cover various topics, from favorite childhood memories to dream travel destinations or even hypothetical scenarios.

Virtual Icebreaker Games & Team Building Activities

Check out this selection of icebreaker games and team-building activities for your virtual team-building .

22. Team Trivia Quiz

Give a trivia quiz a shot with questions about your team members. Gather intriguing facts about each person, then let your teammates guess who is being described. You are bound to uncover loads of interesting tidbits!

In this activity, team members take part in a trivia quiz featuring questions about their teammates. The trivia quiz covers personal interests, hobbies, achievements, and fun facts .

Making virtual trivia quizzes a recurring activity adds an element of fun and excitement to virtual meetings while providing opportunities for ongoing learning and connection among team members.

23. Two Truths and a Lie

“Two Truths and a Lie” is an interesting activity that promotes better understanding and connection among team members.

Gather three statements about each person: two facts and one cleverly crafted lie . Encourage your colleagues to make their lies not too obvious to keep everyone guessing.

This activity encourages active listening, observation, and critical thinking as participants share personal anecdotes and attempt to discern fact from fiction.

24. Show and Tell

Drawing inspiration from the cherished childhood tradition of “show and tell,” this activity offers a delightful opportunity to deepen team connections.

Inviting colleagues to select an object with personal significance or an exciting story can foster a deeper connection and understanding among team members.

Allocate each team member 3-5 minutes to share their chosen item with the group, encouraging lively storytelling and engagement.

25. Struggle Sharing

Sharing successes and setbacks within a team fosters transparency, trust, and collaboration . Openly discussing achievements boosts morale and motivation.

“Struggle Sharing” is designed to foster openness and connection. It also promotes stronger bonds among team members and creates a sense of unity in facing obstacles together.

Consider dividing your team into smaller groups, utilizing breakout rooms in virtual settings to encourage candid discussions about professional and personal struggles.

Afterward, reconvene to reflect on the lessons learned from these experiences, turning setbacks into opportunities for collective growth.

26. Background Challenge

Have some fun with your team during your next virtual meeting! Pick a theme and ask everyone to choose a virtual background that best fits it.

Let your imagination run wild! The options are endless, whether it is your favorite movie scene, 80s disco vibes, hilarious memes, or dream vacation spots.

Sharing these backgrounds will break the ice and give you something fun to chat about as the call begins.

27. Guess Who?

Let us dive into “Guess Who?” —an interactive game that brings a guessing game to life, centered on each team member’s tastes and choices.

During this activity, participants drop hints about themselves while their peers attempt to match the clues to the right person. The hints can range from favorite foods to hobbies or dream travel spots.

Successfully guessing reveals intriguing insights about colleagues, enriching mutual understanding and team spirit.

This game thrives on active involvement, offering a playful platform for team members to showcase their unique personalities.

“Guess Who?” is about embracing individuality and strengthening team bonds through shared experiences and connections.

28. Never Have I Ever

While you are all gathered in the virtual bar, why not spice things up with a game? If you are familiar with “Never Have I Ever,” you know how much fun it can be— especially with some juicy questions it poses.

Here is how it works: You will hold your hand so everyone can see your fingers. Then, one person will read out questions like: “Never have I ever gone skinny dipping.” If you have done it, you will put one finger down.

This icebreaker is perfect for getting to know your colleagues better and sharing laughs while swapping funny stories behind each finger that goes down!

29. Visual Brainstorming

Let us talk about another engaging virtual icebreaker: visual brainstorming. Instead of simply tossing ideas around, why not try a more visual approach?

Participants use virtual whiteboards or other interactive platforms in this activity to collectively generate and share ideas, solutions, and strategies.

This activity promotes teamwork, creativity, and engagement, making it an invaluable tool for enhancing team collaboration and communication.

30. Coffee Time

“Coffee Time” is a relaxed and informal activity promoting virtual water cooler moments and fostering casual conversations among team members.

In this activity, participants are encouraged to join a virtual meeting or chat room at designated times, similar to gathering around the office coffee machine.

Make it a point to schedule occasional team catch-ups, allowing you to chat with colleagues about topics beyond work. These moments can help alleviate feelings of isolation, especially in remote work setups .

31. Meet Up in a Virtual Bar

If remote work setups prevent you from enjoying an after-work drink with your colleagues in person, why not try a virtual alternative?

“Meet Up in a Virtual Bar” allows team members to explore immersive video chat platforms or virtual environments designed to simulate the ambiance of a cozy bar setting.

Participants can engage in relaxed conversations, share anecdotes, and unwind after a busy day, all from their homes.

32. Donut Friends

Remember those spontaneous hallway conversations or deep chats by the water cooler with your colleagues? While we wait for those moments to return, consider giving Donut a try.

Donut, a Slack app, randomly pairs two or three colleagues for a scheduled video call. You can use this time for virtual coffee chats, peer learning sessions, or discussions about recent books.

What makes it great is that it connects you with teammates you might not interact with regularly , fostering new connections and friendships in the workplace.

33. Pair and Share

“Pair and Share” is a fantastic virtual icebreaker that encourages deeper conversations among team members, perfect for those familiar with breakout rooms.

Pose a thought-provoking question to your colleagues and then randomly pair them up using breakout rooms if your video conferencing tool supports it.

Give each pair a few minutes to discuss the topic before reconvening in the main room to share their insights with the team.

This activity helps team members connect on a deeper level by sharing personal stories and experiences. It goes beyond typical icebreakers , fostering empathy, understanding, and collaboration.

“Pair and Share” promotes meaningful talks and gives a comfortable space for introverts to share their thoughts in pairs rather than in front of the entire team.

34. Name That Sound

Are you seeking a more intriguing guessing game? Why not try your hand at identifying sounds? This activity stands out as a more challenging yet immensely gratifying virtual icebreaker!

Here is how it works: Turn off your cameras, leaving only audio on, and then produce a sound near your microphone. Your colleagues will listen in and attempt to guess its source.

Through audio-only interactions, this activity offers a unique and engaging experience that promotes teamwork, communication, and fun among team members.

35. Group Storytelling

“Group Storytelling” is designed to test improvisation skills and foster collaboration among team members. Challenge your creativity with this engaging icebreaker.

In this activity, participants collaboratively build a fictional narrative by taking turns adding to the story. Each addition enhances the story, fostering teamwork and creativity among participants.

Each member contributes a sentence or paragraph, building upon the ideas introduced by others to develop the plot and characters.

36. Online Games

Engaging in online team-building games adds a touch of fun and camaraderie to remote work, fostering interaction among coworkers just like in a physical office.

Participants can engage in various games, including trivia challenges, roasting sessions, and interactive icebreakers to promote camaraderie and teamwork.

Online games allow team members to relax and enjoy themselves together. They provide a welcome respite from work, fostering friendly competition and socializing among colleagues.

37. Virtual Pictionary

“Virtual Pictionary” is a lively game where participants take turns drawing on a virtual whiteboard or using online drawing tools while others guess the representation.

In this activity, participants take turns drawing on a virtual whiteboard or using online drawing tools while others attempt to guess what the drawing represents.

Teams race against the clock to correctly identify the drawings as the timer counts down, fostering creativity, teamwork, and quick thinking.

“Virtual Pictionary” provides a fun and interactive way for team members to connect, collaborate, and showcase their artistic skills in a virtual setting.

38. Virtual Wine Tasting

Even working remotely, you can still enjoy classic wine sessions. While it may seem challenging in a virtual setup, it is entirely doable.

Simply agree on a specific brand or type of drink, or each person can choose a different one to share their unique tasting experience.

This activity brings back the joy of social gatherings and creates a shared experience that fosters camaraderie and teamwork among team members.

“Virtual Wine Tasting” is an excellent addition to virtual happy hour ideas , providing a unique and enjoyable way for colleagues to bond and unwind.

39. Home Scavenger Hunt

Let us kick off this team-building activity by getting everyone up and moving. This virtual icebreaker is enjoyable and creates an opportunity for everyone to stretch their legs a bit.

Assign your teammates a simple task, like “You have 25 seconds to find something yellow,” or “Grab the quirkiest item in your apartment and show it to us.”

“Home Scavenger Hunt” injects energy into teams through a lively virtual scavenger hunt. This activity sparks enthusiasm and competition and encourages creativity and problem-solving skills.

40. Virtual Escape Room

Are you looking for an immersive team-building adventure? Consider a virtual escape room .

Just like the real deal, it is thrilling and challenging. Your team will collaborate to solve puzzles and crack codes to “escape” the room.

Organizers select themes and platforms that offer interactive and immersive experiences, transporting participants into captivating scenarios where collaboration and communication are vital for success.

This activity promotes problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork , enabling collaboration and camaraderie among team members as they work together to achieve a common goal.

Key Takeaways on Ice Breakers for Virtual Meetings

As you navigate the world of virtual and hybrid meetings, remember the power of connection and camaraderie.

Do not hesitate to try out different icebreakers to keep your team energized and connected .

With our curated list of 40 Fun Ice Breakers for Virtual Meetings , the possibilities for fostering engagement and strengthening bonds are endless.

Whether through quirky questions, creative challenges, or heartfelt conversations, each icebreaker offers a unique opportunity to promote team bonding and elevate the virtual meeting experience.

Embrace these opportunities to spark meaningful connections and foster a sense of belonging in your team, ensuring every virtual or hybrid meeting is filled with laughter, collaboration, and shared experiences.

other blog posts

12 Reasons Why Escape Rooms are Good for Team Building

What are the Types of Escape Room Locks and Puzzles?

12 Tips on How to Build Virtual Teams Effectively

22 Best Virtual Team Building Activities

20 Best Virtual Team Building Activities for Large Groups

8 Reasons Why Escape Rooms are Fun

Fun Escape Room Ideas and Puzzles

Best Escape Room Gifts: Buying Guide

How to Plan an Escape Room Birthday Party

14 Best Escape Room Alternatives to Try

How to Make an Escape Room at Home: DIY Guide

Can You Do an Escape Room with 2 People Only?

How to Create a Virtual Escape Room

42 Escape Room Tips & Tricks to Win (Virtual and Physical)

What is an Escape Room? How Does it Work?

Is There An Escape Room Age Limit?

What to Wear to an Escape Room?

How Many People Do You Need for an Escape Room?

How Long Does An Escape Room Take?

History of Escape Rooms: When Did They Start?

Virtual Diversity and Inclusion Activities for Your Team

Fun Winter Team Building Activities

11 Best Team Building Activities in Houston, Texas

Exceptional Fall Team Building Activities

5 Minute Team Building Games

15 Team Building Activities For Conference Calls

25 Virtual Holiday Party Ideas

Fun Virtual Escape Room Ideas

Planning Summer Team Building Activities for the Workplace

The Best Virtual Murder Mystery Party Ideas

List of Team Building Quotes to Inspire Collaboration

24 Virtual Happy Hour Ideas

25 Virtual Team Building Ideas

11 Team Building Tips for 2023

What is a Virtual Escape Room?

The 8 best games to play on Zoom

Schedule a walkthrough, we promise you will be impressed, get updates, new releases, deals, and more, stay in the know.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

How it works

Transform your enterprise with the scalable mindsets, skills, & behavior change that drive performance.

Explore how BetterUp connects to your core business systems.

We pair AI with the latest in human-centered coaching to drive powerful, lasting learning and behavior change.

Build leaders that accelerate team performance and engagement.

Unlock performance potential at scale with AI-powered curated growth journeys.

Build resilience, well-being and agility to drive performance across your entire enterprise.

Transform your business, starting with your sales leaders.

Unlock business impact from the top with executive coaching.

Foster a culture of inclusion and belonging.

Accelerate the performance and potential of your agencies and employees.

See how innovative organizations use BetterUp to build a thriving workforce.

Discover how BetterUp measurably impacts key business outcomes for organizations like yours.

A demo is the first step to transforming your business. Meet with us to develop a plan for attaining your goals.

• What is coaching?

Learn how 1:1 coaching works, who its for, and if it's right for you.

Accelerate your personal and professional growth with the expert guidance of a BetterUp Coach.

Types of Coaching

Navigate career transitions, accelerate your professional growth, and achieve your career goals with expert coaching.

Enhance your communication skills for better personal and professional relationships, with tailored coaching that focuses on your needs.

Find balance, resilience, and well-being in all areas of your life with holistic coaching designed to empower you.

Discover your perfect match : Take our 5-minute assessment and let us pair you with one of our top Coaches tailored just for you.

Research, expert insights, and resources to develop courageous leaders within your organization.

Best practices, research, and tools to fuel individual and business growth.

View on-demand BetterUp events and learn about upcoming live discussions.

The latest insights and ideas for building a high-performing workplace.

• BetterUp Briefing

The online magazine that helps you understand tomorrow's workforce trends, today.

Innovative research featured in peer-reviewed journals, press, and more.

Founded in 2022 to deepen the understanding of the intersection of well-being, purpose, and performance

We're on a mission to help everyone live with clarity, purpose, and passion.

Join us and create impactful change.

Read the buzz about BetterUp.

Meet the leadership that's passionate about empowering your workforce.

For Business

For Individuals

Spice things up with these icebreakers for virtual meetings

Jump to section

What are icebreaker games, and how can they help?

Example virtual icebreakers for work, spice up your corporate culture.

Before the Internet, you didn’t have many options for office structures. Telecommuting was in its infancy in the 70s and 80s, making remote work a rarity. And through the 20th century, you only had two choices for in-person offices: open-concept or cubicles.

Needless to say, things have changed since then. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, remote work blossomed, with 70% of American workers working from home in 2021, solidifying the workstyle’s mainstream status.

Depending on the nature of your job, remote work might be your future . No more heavy traffic on the way to the office, and you have more space to be creative . Plus, you can usually dress how you want , unless you have important Zoom meetings .

But, if you’re a manager, remote work presents several challenges. Lack of in-person interaction between employees means fewer deep relationships and a lack of team cohesiveness.

The increased risk of social isolation can also leave your employees tired and depressed , which is bad for their productivity and overall well-being. A remote workforce also makes it difficult to piece together a strong corporate culture .

You’ll need an assortment of tactics to improve the dynamic among your team. But you can with something simple: icebreakers for virtual meetings. 

This is a simple tool you can easily implement into your Zoom calls. With a bit of effort, you can improve your team culture and have fun while doing it.

Playing a game with your staff might sound childish at first, but there’s nothing wrong with a bit of fun now and then — especially if it helps bring your team together.

Icebreakers are designed to do just that. These short activities are meant to help your virtual team members get to know each other and foster great conversation. This builds a foundation for a great corporate culture . 

You can’t force a team to get along with each other. But short virtual icebreakers can promote cohesion by:

Introducing new recruits to the team. Icebreakers are a great way to help a new hire feel included in an established group. Incorporating them through activity can introduce them to other employees and quickly forge meaningful connections.

Encouraging communication and teamwork. Giving your staff an artificial challenge will encourage them to talk to each other and work together. This can translate into better collaboration on real work-related projects.

Reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness. Icebreakers are designed to be participatory. They encourage staff to stop “watching” the meeting quietly and engage with their colleagues, thus helping them feel connected.

Helping everyone relax. Your staff might be concerned about the outcome of this team meeting. Kicking things off or ending them with a game helps diffuse tension before a difficult round of brainstorming and problem-solving.

The beauty of these icebreaker games is that you don't need to be physically together. At most, you'll need to share your screen — something you likely already do frequently during online meetings.

Here are some icebreaker activities to spice up your video calls:

1. Two truths and a lie

This is a fun way to help your team get to know each other more. Here’s how it works:

Ask a participant to prepare three statements about themselves. There should be two true statements and one lie.

For each person’s turn, create a Zoom poll and list each statement as an option.

Ask all meeting attendees to vote on which statement they think is a lie.

Once everyone has voted, reveal the correct answer.

Open the floor to any follow-up questions about these statements.

You can adapt this game to accommodate the functions of your video conferencing software. For example, if you can’t create a poll, you can instead ask the truth-teller to share their screen or send them in the chat so everyone can see the three statements.

2. Virtual trivia

Kicking things off with a virtual question gets people talking — a good warm-up toward discussing any agenda. Here’s how to set up the game:

Post a question in the chat or share it on your screen so it’s always visible. If it’s a multiple-choice question, make sure you list the possible answers.

Ask the group to discuss the question among themselves.

Once they decide on an answer, you can tell them whether they’re correct.

You can also ask 10–15 questions and then review all the answers in order instead of individually for efficiency. 

For large groups, you can organize the game a bit differently: 

Use breakout rooms to create smaller groups, each of which can be a team. 

Set a time limit for the teams to discuss the question and choose an answer.

Once everyone is back in the main space, ask each team to present their answers to each question.

3. Would you rather…

This fun game is perfect for lightening the mood and introducing some silliness to your meetings. The premise is simple: 

Give your team two options and ask them to choose between them. For example, “Would you rather… have the ability to walk through walls or to fly?”

Ask a few team members to explain their choice, and open the floor to discussion.

This can lead to surprisingly insightful conversations about seemingly trivial topics. You’ll also learn about your team member’s personal preferences or pet peeves. 

4. Guess who

As the name suggests, this game involves listing facts and asking your team to guess who you’re describing. Use this as an opportunity to get to know one of the meeting attendees:

Before the meeting, ask a participant to send you a surprising list of facts. This can include anything from their favorite food to their alma mater or pet’s name.

Progressively reveal these facts until the rest of the team can guess who you’re describing.

Alternatively, if you don’t want to single out an employee, you can use a celebrity or other known figure’s biography. Consider this a test of your team’s deduction abilities.

5. Virtual scavenger hunt

Scavenger hunts are a staple team-building activity and can make for a fun virtual icebreaker. In person, you might send your team around the office to find an assortment of items. You can do the same thing online but focus on household items. For example, you can give them 15 minutes to find a:

Used AAA battery

Plastic spatula

Speaker wire

Printed picture of a celebrity

A bike helmet

You can assign points to each item based on rarity — a printed picture of a celebrity might be tougher to find than a bike helmet and therefore is worth more points. 

If you divide everyone into small groups, you can have teams tally their points together. The team with the highest score wins.

6. Show and tell

This activity can be just as fun for adults as for children. Invite team members to present an object that has a personal significance to them, and give them each a few minutes to explain. This can tell you something about their personal beliefs and values and foster deeper relationships in your team.

7. Describe your favorite movie without naming it

As the game’s facilitator, challenge someone to describe their favorite movie without using the title. The rest of the team has to guess. The first person to give the correct answer goes next! This is a great icebreaker for sharpening your team’s communication skills . 

8. Share your bucket list

This activity is more of a conversation starter than a game. Split your team into pairs and ask them to share something from their bucket list . After some time has elapsed, you can ask each person to present their partner’s item to the group. This forces them to practice their active listening and public speaking skills . Plus, they’ll learn what one another finds meaningful. 

9. Charades

Yes, charades can be a virtual team-building activity! Here’s how it works:

Make sure everyone’s camera is on.

Have someone from the group act out a word. You can have them choose the word themselves or send them one via a private message.

For one minute, they can only use their body language , facial expressions, and other non-verbal cues to communicate — no speaking allowed!

The round ends when someone guesses the correct answer or the timer has elapsed.

This is a great icebreaker idea for pulling people out of their shells and practicing their non-verbal communication.

Ice breakers for virtual meetings work best in tandem with other remote team-building activities . Virtual environments like Slack simulate spontaneous conversations typically found in physical office environments. You can also create a peer mentoring initiative where individuals are paired and encouraged to interact on their own.

These tactics can help move your team-building beyond your virtual boardroom, fostering an organic corporate culture.

But games are still great for adding levity to your get-togethers. Paired with other culture-building programs in your organization, they can help build relationships and bring your team closer together.

As you integrate icebreakers into your meetings, here are some extra pro tips to keep in mind:

Read the room. Not everyone enjoys icebreakers. Busy, serious, and stressed-out employees may view your games as wasted time. Unless you already have a playful team dynamic or some bandwidth for added activities, you may have to focus on other team-building programs.

Don’t use icebreakers every meeting. Even if your games are fun, it’s better to use them sparingly. This will help maintain a sense of novelty, adding spice to your meetings rather than becoming a nuisance.

Know when to move on. It’s better to end your activities on a high. If there’s a lull in the conversation and everyone is smiling, start the day’s agenda. Otherwise, your risk stretching the game for too long and wasting time or leading to disengaged employees.

Just because your meetings are virtual, that doesn’t mean they can’t be fun. With these icebreaker tips, you can build a culture that fits you and your team.

Elevate your communication skills

Unlock the power of clear and persuasive communication. Our coaches can guide you to build strong relationships and succeed in both personal and professional life.

Maggie Wooll, MBA

Maggie Wooll is a researcher, author, and speaker focused on the evolving future of work. Formerly the lead researcher at the Deloitte Center for the Edge, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Princeton University and an MBA from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business. Maggie is passionate about creating better work and greater opportunities for all.

Insights from Workday Rising Europe

Why we need to reframe potential into readiness, building the human transformation company: the principles that shape our future, contingency planning: 4 steps to prepare for the unexpected, leading people as people, a conversation with cynt marshall, ceo of the dallas mavericks, reflections on shift: cracking the code to people transformation in the workplace, and beyond, accountability vs. responsibility for leaders: back to the basics, investing in leaders to fuel growth: ryan weber, vp of talent activation and growth, servicenow, leading from a distance: ideas for supporting your remote workforce in times of change, similar articles, virtual onboarding: 6 steps to engaging new team members, what will make or break your next role find out why teamwork matters, 30 team building exercises for the 2024 workplace, 14 icebreaker games for small groups that help build coworker connections, 35 fun virtual team-building activities for your employees in 2024, leadership activities that encourage employee engagement, 7 types of meetings (and how to get them right), the hidden benefits of fun at work, looking to improve company culture try these 23 fun activities, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

3100 E 5th Street, Suite 350 Austin, TX 78702

• Platform Overview
• Integrations
• Powered by AI
• BetterUp Lead
• BetterUp Manage™
• BetterUp Care™
• Sales Performance
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Case Studies
• Why BetterUp?
• About Coaching
• Find your Coach
• Career Coaching
• Communication Coaching
• Life Coaching
• News and Press
• Leadership Team
• Become a BetterUp Coach
• BetterUp Labs
• Center for Purpose & Performance
• Leadership Training
• Business Coaching
• Contact Support
• Contact Sales
• Privacy Policy
• Acceptable Use Policy
• Trust & Security
• Cookie Preferences

Team Building In-person, virtual, or hybrid adventure to excite your team

University & EDU New student orientation, events, and engagement on campus

Onboarding & HR Onboard, activate, and engage new hires and employees

100+ Urban Adventures 100+ Cities with ready-to-go experiences you can start now! On Demand

Conferences & Events Bring your event to life and engage attendees

Tourist Destinations Activate visitors with exciting tours and visitor programs

Virtual & Remote Engage and connect remotes anywhere in the world, anytime

NYC New York City

PHL Philadelphia

CHI Chicago

DCA Washington D.C.

SEA Seattle

LAS Las Vegas

SFO San Francisco

MSY New Orleans

• How It Works
• Get Started

100+ Urban Adventures 100+ Cities with ready-to-go experiences you can start now! Ready Now

Team Building » Ice Breakers For Virtual Meetings

42 Engaging Ice Breakers for Virtual Meetings in 2024

Introduction to ice breakers for virtual meetings.

As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the digital age, virtual meetings have become an integral part of our professional lives. They have bridged the gap between geographical boundaries, enabling seamless collaboration and communication among teams scattered across the globe. However, the absence of physical proximity often leads to a lack of personal connection and engagement, making these meetings seem monotonous and impersonal. This is where the magic of ice breakers comes into play.

Ice breakers for virtual meetings are interactive activities designed to ease participants into a meeting by encouraging social interaction and team bonding. They are the digital equivalent of the initial small talk at an in-person meeting that helps attendees to relax, get to know each other better, and set the stage for productive collaboration.

In the virtual world, ice breakers serve as an excellent tool to combat the inherent challenges of remote communication. They help in breaking down barriers of digital communication by injecting a dose of fun and personal touch into the virtual space. They stimulate conversations, foster a sense of camaraderie, and create a more open and inclusive environment.

Moreover, ice breakers can be tailored to suit the specific needs of your team and the nature of the meeting. Whether it's a quick energizer to kick off the meeting, a creative activity to spur innovative thinking, or a team-building exercise to strengthen relationships, there's an ice breaker for every occasion.

In this blog post, we will explore a variety of ice breakers designed specifically for virtual meetings. These activities are not only engaging and fun, but they also serve a greater purpose: to enhance communication, build stronger relationships, and ultimately, to improve the overall effectiveness of your virtual meetings. So buckle up and get ready to add a dash of excitement to your next virtual meeting!

The Importance of Ice Breakers in Virtual Meetings

In the digital age, where remote work and virtual meetings are becoming the norm, the need for effective communication and team cohesion is vital. Ice breakers serve as the bridge that connects individuals across screens, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie in an otherwise impersonal digital landscape. Let's delve into the reasons why ice breakers are an indispensable part of virtual meetings in today's work environment.

Facilitating Interpersonal Connections

In a physical office setting, casual conversations by the water cooler or during lunch breaks naturally foster relationships. However, in a virtual setting, these spontaneous interactions are absent. Ice breakers can fill this void, providing a platform for team members to share personal anecdotes, interests, and experiences, thereby humanizing the digital interface and promoting a sense of connection.

Enhancing Communication

Ice breakers can be instrumental in breaking down communication barriers. By encouraging open dialogue in a relaxed and fun environment, they can help individuals overcome shyness or apprehension, paving the way for more effective communication during the meeting. They also provide an opportunity to understand each other's communication styles and cultural nuances, which is particularly beneficial in diverse teams.

Building Trust and Empathy

Trust and empathy are cornerstones of any successful team. Ice breakers can help build these elements by encouraging participants to open up and share. When team members understand each other's backgrounds, perspectives, and challenges, it fosters empathy and mutual respect, leading to a more trusting and supportive team environment.

Energizing the Meeting

Let's face it - virtual meetings can sometimes be monotonous. Ice breakers can inject a dose of fun and energy into these sessions, boosting morale and engagement. They serve as a mental warm-up, preparing participants to be more focused and receptive during the meeting.

Encouraging Participation

Ice breakers can set the tone for the meeting, promoting a participatory culture. When individuals have an opportunity to contribute right at the beginning, they are more likely to stay involved throughout the meeting. This can lead to more fruitful discussions and better decision-making.

In conclusion, ice breakers are not just fun activities to kick off a virtual meeting. They are strategic tools that can enhance team dynamics, communication, and productivity. As we navigate the world of virtual meetings in 2024, the role of ice breakers is more crucial than ever.

6 Fun and Easy Ice Breakers for Virtual Meetings

As the world continues to embrace remote work, the need for effective and engaging virtual meetings has never been more pronounced. Ice breakers are a fantastic way to kick-start these meetings, fostering a sense of camaraderie and setting a positive tone for the discussions to follow. Here are six fun and easy ice breakers that can make your virtual meetings lively and engaging.

1. Two Truths and a Lie

This classic ice breaker game is as simple as it is fun. Each participant shares three statements about themselves - two truths and one lie. The rest of the team then tries to guess which statement is the lie. This game not only sparks laughter but also allows team members to learn interesting facts about each other.

2. Virtual Show and Tell

Remember how much fun 'Show and Tell' was in elementary school? Well, it's time to bring it to your virtual meetings. Each participant can share a personal item or pet and tell a short story about it. This activity adds a personal touch to the meeting and helps team members connect on a deeper level.

3. Desert Island Scenario

Ask your team members, "If you were stranded on a desert island, what one item would you want to have with you?" The answers can range from practical to whimsical, leading to interesting conversations and insights into each other's personalities.

4. Picture Sharing

This ice breaker is a great way to share a laugh. Ask team members to share a funny or embarrassing photo of themselves. This could be a childhood photo, a picture from a vacation, or even a silly selfie. Sharing these pictures can lighten the mood and foster a sense of camaraderie among the team.

5. Quick Draw Challenge

In this ice breaker, one team member describes a scenario or object, and the rest of the team has a set amount of time to draw it. This activity not only sparks creativity but also leads to a lot of laughter when the drawings are revealed.

6. The Alphabet Game

Start with the letter 'A' and ask each team member to say a word that begins with the next letter in the alphabet. The catch is, the word must be related to a pre-determined category, such as 'animals' or 'foods'. This game is not only fun but also tests your team's quick thinking skills.

In conclusion, ice breakers are a fantastic way to add a dash of fun to your virtual meetings and ensure that they start on a positive note. So, the next time you host a virtual meeting, try one of these ice breakers and watch the engagement levels soar!

7 Creative Ice Breakers for Virtual Meetings

As we navigate the digital shift in our work environments, the need to cultivate a sense of connection and camaraderie in virtual meetings has become more important than ever. While traditional ice breakers may not translate perfectly into the virtual world, there's still a plethora of creative options that can help break the monotony and spark engaging conversations. Here are seven creative ice breakers that can infuse a dose of fun and creativity into your virtual meetings.

1. Virtual Background Challenge

Encourage your team members to set their virtual backgrounds to a place that holds special meaning for them. It could be a favorite vacation spot, a dream destination, or even a snapshot of their favorite movie. This not only adds a dash of color and fun to the meeting but also gives everyone a chance to share a bit about their personal interests and experiences.

2. Show and Tell

Remember the good old days of school when everyone looked forward to show-and-tell sessions? Why not bring that excitement into your virtual meeting? Ask your team members to bring an object that tells a story or holds significance for them and have them share its story. This activity can reveal fascinating insights about each individual and foster a deeper understanding among team members.

3. 'Two Truths and a Lie'

This classic game can be easily adapted for virtual meetings. Each participant shares two true statements and one false statement about themselves. The rest of the team then votes on which statement they believe is the lie. It's a fun and interactive way to learn more about each other while also testing how well you know your colleagues.

4. Virtual Scavenger Hunt

Organize a quick virtual scavenger hunt where participants have to find items in their home based on given clues. This activity not only adds a dash of excitement but also offers a glimpse into each other's lives outside of work.

5. 'What's in Your Fridge?'

This ice breaker is as simple as it sounds. Ask participants to share one interesting item from their fridge. It's a fun, light-hearted way to kickstart a meeting, and who knows, it might even lead to some interesting recipe exchanges!

6. 'Desert Island' Scenario

Pose a hypothetical scenario where each participant is stranded on a deserted island and can only bring three items. What would they bring and why? This activity can lead to some interesting and humorous discussions.

7. 'Emoji Story' Game

In this game, each participant sends a sequence of emojis in the chat and the rest of the team tries to guess the story or phrase it represents. This ice breaker is not only fun but also tests your team's creativity and interpretative skills.

Remember, the goal of these ice breakers is not just to fill time at the beginning of a meeting, but to create a comfortable environment where everyone feels connected and engaged. So, the next time you host a virtual meeting, give these creative ice breakers a try!

5 Ice Breakers for Virtual Meetings for Small Teams

In the era of remote work, virtual meetings have become the new norm for many small teams. However, fostering a sense of connection and camaraderie in a virtual environment can be challenging. That's where ice breakers come in. These simple, engaging activities can help to break down barriers and encourage open communication. Here are five ice breakers specifically designed for small teams in virtual meetings.

A classic ice breaker, this game is both fun and revealing. Each team member shares two true facts about themselves and one false statement. The rest of the team then tries to guess which statement is the lie. This game not only sparks laughter and light-hearted debate but also allows team members to share a bit about themselves in a fun, low-pressure way.

Remember the excitement of show and tell in grade school? Recreate that fun in your virtual meeting. Each team member can take turns showing and discussing a personal item that holds significance for them. This not only provides a glimpse into each person's life outside of work but also helps to foster a sense of connection and understanding among the team.

This ice breaker encourages creative thinking and teamwork. Present your team with the classic scenario: if they were stranded on a desert island, what one item would they want to have with them? The answers can range from practical to humorous, sparking interesting discussions and revealing individual priorities and values.

Ask your team members to share a picture from their phone or computer that has a story behind it. It could be a memorable vacation, a beloved pet, a family event, or even a funny mishap. This activity not only sparks conversation but also gives team members a chance to share personal experiences and memories.

5. Coffee Shop Chat

This ice breaker is simple but effective. At the start of your meeting, have a casual chat as if you were all meeting in a coffee shop. Talk about your weekend plans, share a funny story, or discuss a recent movie or book you enjoyed. This helps to create a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and encourages open communication.

In conclusion, ice breakers can be a powerful tool for small teams in virtual meetings. They not only break the ice but also foster a sense of connection, encourage open communication, and help to create a positive, collaborative team culture. So next time you're hosting a virtual meeting for your small team, why not give one of these ice breakers a try?

6 Ice Breakers for Virtual Meetings for Large Teams

In the age of remote work and virtual collaboration, large teams often face the challenge of fostering cohesion and camaraderie. Ice breakers are a fantastic way to bridge this gap, encouraging team members to connect on a personal level and build a sense of unity. Here are six engaging ice breakers specifically designed for large teams in virtual meetings.

1. Virtual Scavenger Hunt

A virtual scavenger hunt is an exciting way to break the monotony of regular meetings. With Scavify, you can create customized challenges that require team members to find items within their home or workspace. This activity not only promotes interaction but also offers a glimpse into everyone's personal space, fostering a sense of familiarity and bonding among team members.

2. Two Truths and a Lie

This classic ice breaker game can easily be adapted for a virtual setting. Each participant shares two true statements and one false one about themselves, and the rest of the team tries to guess the lie. This activity encourages participants to share personal anecdotes and learn more about each other, promoting a sense of camaraderie.

3. Virtual Show and Tell

This is a fun and engaging way for team members to share a bit about their lives outside of work. Each participant can choose an object of significance from their home and share its story. This activity not only breaks the ice but also helps team members to understand and appreciate each other's backgrounds and interests.

Ask team members to share a picture that holds a significant memory or story for them. It could be a family photo, a picture from a vacation, or even a snapshot of their favorite book. This activity allows team members to share personal stories and experiences, fostering a sense of connection.

5. The Desert Island Scenario

Pose a hypothetical scenario where team members are stranded on a deserted island and can only bring three items. This activity encourages creative thinking and provides insight into each team member's priorities and problem-solving strategies.

Start with the letter 'A' and ask the first participant to name something related to work that begins with that letter. The next participant follows with 'B', and so on. This activity not only helps to break the ice but also serves as a fun brain exercise.

In conclusion, ice breakers are a powerful tool for fostering connection and engagement in large virtual teams. By incorporating these activities into your meetings, you can create a more inclusive and collaborative virtual environment.

7 Ice Breakers for Virtual Meetings that Promote Team Building

In the age of remote work, building a cohesive team can pose a unique set of challenges. Yet, the importance of fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie among team members remains paramount. One of the most effective ways to bridge the virtual divide and encourage team building is through engaging ice breakers. Here are seven innovative ice breakers specifically designed to promote team building in virtual meetings.

1. Virtual Escape Room

Engage your team in a virtual escape room challenge. This activity not only promotes problem-solving and critical thinking but also encourages collaboration and communication among team members. There are many online platforms offering this service, each with a variety of scenarios to choose from.

This classic game is an excellent way for team members to learn more about each other. Each participant shares two true statements and one false statement about themselves. The team then guesses which statement is the lie. This encourages active listening and promotes a deeper understanding of each other's experiences and perspectives.

3. Online Pictionary

A virtual version of this beloved game can be easily set up using a shared whiteboard feature. Not only does this activity inject a dose of fun into the meeting, but it also requires team members to communicate effectively and work together to guess the drawing.

Scavify offers a virtual scavenger hunt platform that can be customized to suit your team's needs. This activity promotes team building as members work together to complete challenges and earn points.

5. Show and Tell

Ask team members to share an item from their workspace or home that has a special meaning to them. This activity allows team members to share a piece of their personal lives, fostering a sense of connection and mutual respect.

6. Virtual Coffee Break

Schedule a virtual coffee break where team members can chat and relax together. This informal setting allows for organic conversations and relationship building, which are essential for a cohesive team.

7. Personality Quiz

Have team members take a personality quiz and share their results. This activity can lead to insightful discussions about individual work styles and how they can complement each other, promoting understanding and collaboration within the team.

In conclusion, ice breakers are not just fun activities to start a meeting. When chosen carefully, they can serve as powerful tools to promote team building, foster a sense of unity, and create a more collaborative and productive work environment.

Conclusion: The Impact of Ice Breakers on Virtual Meetings

As we draw this discussion to a close, it's important to reflect on the significant impact that ice breakers have on virtual meetings. These seemingly simple activities hold the power to transform a mundane virtual gathering into an engaging, productive, and memorable event.

In an era where remote working is becoming the new norm, virtual meetings have become a vital part of our professional lives. However, the lack of physical presence and the inherent distance can often lead to disengagement and a sense of isolation among team members. This is where ice breakers come in, serving as a bridge to connect individuals, foster camaraderie, and create a more inclusive virtual environment.

Ice breakers for virtual meetings are not just about fun and games. They are strategic tools that can boost team morale, stimulate creativity, and promote open communication. By starting meetings with a light-hearted and engaging activity, we can effectively break down barriers, allowing for a more relaxed and open conversation.

Moreover, ice breakers can help in setting the tone for the meeting. They can transform the virtual space into a more welcoming and relaxed environment, encouraging participants to share ideas and contribute to discussions more freely. This can be particularly beneficial in brainstorming sessions or problem-solving meetings where creative input is needed.

Ice breakers can also play a crucial role in team building. By encouraging interaction and collaboration, they can help in building stronger relationships among team members. This can lead to improved teamwork, increased trust, and a more cohesive team.

In conclusion, ice breakers for virtual meetings are not just a nice-to-have, they are a must-have. They are an essential component of successful virtual meetings, contributing significantly to team engagement, productivity, and overall team dynamics. As we continue to navigate the world of remote work, let us not underestimate the power of a well-planned ice breaker to set the stage for a successful virtual meeting.

Get Started with Your Team Building

Scavify is the world's most interactive and trusted scavenger hunt for team building. Contact us today for a demo, free trial, and pricing.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

12 Key Onboarding Gamification Strategies to Engage New Hires in 2024

35 Impactful Leadership Activities for Teams in 2024

Book your team building today

Revolutionize your team building experience with our innovative app.

About Scavify

Scavify is the innovative team building company that combines mobile technology with experiential learning to create unforgettable team building events. Our state-of-the-art mobile app is designed to facilitate engaging team building activities, from scavenger hunts to problem-solving challenges. Our expert facilitators will help you to design a customized event that meets the unique needs of your team and helps you achieve your goals.

Login To Remo

Elevate Your Events Today!

Seamlessly host virtual events

3.2x your attendee engagement

Freely move between breakout rooms

Fully branded virtual spaces

Share this Blog Post

45 Ice Breaker Questions for Virtual Meetings

August 17, 2023

In today's interconnected world, virtual meetings have become a common way for teams to collaborate and connect remotely. However, it can sometimes be challenging to break the ice and establish a comfortable environment in these virtual settings. To facilitate smoother interactions, ice breaker questions can play a vital role. In this article, we will explore the importance of ice breakers in virtual meetings and provide you with 45 thought-provoking questions to get the conversation flowing.

Understanding the Importance of Ice Breakers in Virtual Meetings

Virtual meetings often lack the informal and relaxed atmosphere of face-to-face interactions. Without the physical presence and nonverbal cues, it can be difficult to build rapport and establish meaningful connections. This is where ice breakers come into play. By engaging participants in light-hearted conversations, ice breaker questions can help alleviate tension, encourage participation, and create a positive and inclusive environment for all attendees.

Imagine joining a virtual meeting where you see a grid of unfamiliar faces on your screen. It can be intimidating to speak up and share your thoughts, especially if you're new to the team or the topic being discussed. However, when the meeting starts with an ice breaker activity, it instantly breaks down those barriers. Suddenly, you're not just a face on the screen; you become part of a team, a group of individuals who are all here to collaborate and contribute.

Why Use Ice Breakers?

The primary purpose of ice breakers is to break down barriers between team members and create a sense of camaraderie. By starting the meeting with a fun and engaging activity, participants are more likely to feel comfortable openly sharing their thoughts and ideas throughout the discussion. Ice breakers also allow participants to learn more about each other beyond their professional roles, fostering a sense of empathy and collaboration.

Think about it - when was the last time you had a virtual meeting where you truly felt connected to your colleagues? Ice breakers provide an opportunity for team members to connect on a personal level. It's not just about the work; it's about getting to know each other as individuals with unique experiences and perspectives. By understanding each other better, team members can build trust and strengthen their working relationships.

Benefits of Ice Breakers in Virtual Meetings

Using ice breakers in virtual meetings offers several benefits. Firstly, they help establish a positive and inclusive meeting culture. By providing everyone with an opportunity to contribute and be heard, ice breakers ensure that all voices are valued. In a virtual setting where it's easy for some participants to fade into the background, ice breakers give everyone a chance to shine.

Secondly, ice breakers encourage active listening and enhance team communication. When team members are actively engaged in listening to others' responses, it builds rapport and promotes better understanding. By actively listening to each other's stories and experiences, participants can gain new perspectives and insights that they may not have considered before. This, in turn, leads to more meaningful and productive discussions.

Finally, ice breakers can enhance team dynamics and boost morale. They create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, making virtual meetings more enjoyable for all participants. When people are having fun and feeling comfortable, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated. This positive energy can have a ripple effect on the entire meeting, leading to increased productivity and collaboration.

So, the next time you're planning a virtual meeting, don't underestimate the power of ice breakers. They may seem like simple activities, but they have the potential to transform your meetings from mundane to memorable. By incorporating ice breakers into your virtual meetings, you can foster a sense of connection, collaboration, and camaraderie among your team members, ultimately leading to more productive and successful outcomes.

Preparing for Ice Breaker Questions

Before diving into the world of ice breaker questions, it is essential to consider a few key factors that can enhance their effectiveness.

Ice breaker questions serve as an excellent tool to break down barriers, encourage communication, and create a positive and inclusive atmosphere. However, to ensure that your ice breaker questions hit the mark and achieve the desired outcomes, it is crucial to take into account the unique characteristics of your audience.

Knowing Your Audience

When selecting ice breaker questions, it's crucial to consider your audience. Different teams have various interests, backgrounds, and cultural norms. Tailoring your questions to suit the team's preferences will ensure maximum engagement and participation.

For example, if you are working with a team of software developers, you might consider asking questions related to their favorite programming languages or the latest trends in the tech industry. On the other hand, if you are facilitating a team-building session for a diverse group of individuals from different departments within an organization, you might want to choose questions that encourage cross-functional collaboration and understanding.

Additionally, being aware of any potential sensitivities or diverse perspectives will help you choose inclusive questions that foster open dialogue and respect. By considering the cultural, social, and individual differences within your audience, you can create an environment where everyone feels comfortable and valued.

Setting the Tone for the Meeting

The choice of ice breaker questions can set the tone for the entire meeting. Are you looking to foster collaboration and teamwork? Or perhaps you want to encourage innovative thinking and creativity? Understanding the purpose and objectives of the meeting will guide you in selecting relevant and purposeful ice breaker questions.

For example, if the goal of the meeting is to brainstorm new ideas, you might choose ice breaker questions that stimulate creative thinking and encourage participants to share their unique perspectives. On the other hand, if the meeting aims to strengthen team dynamics and build trust, you might opt for questions that promote personal connections and highlight commonalities among team members.

By aligning the ice breaker questions with the meeting's objectives, you can create a seamless transition from the ice breaker activity to the main agenda, ensuring that participants are mentally prepared and engaged.

Remember, ice breaker questions are not just a way to fill time or break the ice. When thoughtfully selected and executed, they can serve as powerful tools to build rapport, foster meaningful connections, and set the stage for productive discussions.

10 Ice Breaker Questions for Team Building

Building a strong and cohesive team is crucial for any successful project. Here are ten ice breaker questions specifically designed to foster collaboration and nurture team spirit:

• What was the most memorable team-building activity you have ever participated in?
• If you could have any superpower, what would it be, and why?
• What is your favorite book or movie that inspires teamwork and why?
• Share a fun fact about yourself that others in the team may not know.
• If you were stranded on a desert island, what three items would you bring?
• What is your greatest strength when working in a team?
• If you could invite any historical figure to join our team, who would it be, and why?
• What is one thing you appreciate about each team member?
• What is your favorite team-building activity or game?
• What is one goal you hope to achieve as part of this team?

Questions to Encourage Team Spirit

To further enhance team spirit and foster a sense of unity, here are five additional ice breaker questions:

• What is one team accomplishment that you are proud of?
• Share a team experience where you overcame a big challenge together.
• If our team was a superhero group, what would our team name be, and why?
• What is one thing you admire about the team's collaborative efforts?
• What are three words that describe our team dynamic?

Team building is an essential aspect of any successful project. It not only helps individuals bond and develop trust but also enhances their ability to work together towards a common goal. By engaging in ice breaker questions, teams can break down barriers, encourage open communication, and foster a positive and collaborative environment.

One of the most memorable team-building activities that I have personally participated in was a ropes course challenge. We were divided into small groups and had to navigate through a series of high ropes obstacles. It required trust, communication, and teamwork to successfully complete the course. It was an exhilarating experience that brought our team closer together and taught us the importance of relying on each other.

If I could have any superpower, it would be the ability to teleport. This superpower would greatly enhance team collaboration as it would allow me to be physically present in different locations whenever needed. I could easily attend meetings, provide support, and contribute to the team's efforts regardless of geographical constraints.

One of my favorite books that inspires teamwork is "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team" by Patrick Lencioni. It explores the fundamental aspects of building a cohesive team and highlights the importance of trust, conflict resolution, commitment, accountability, and collective results. This book serves as a valuable resource for understanding the dynamics of effective team collaboration.

A fun fact about myself that others in the team may not know is that I am a certified scuba diver. Exploring the underwater world has been a passion of mine for many years. It has taught me the importance of trust, clear communication, and teamwork, as these elements are crucial for a safe and enjoyable diving experience.

If I were stranded on a desert island, the three items I would bring are a survival knife, a waterproof tent, and a fishing net. These items would provide me with the necessary tools for shelter, food, and protection, increasing my chances of survival until rescue.

My greatest strength when working in a team is my ability to listen actively and empathetically. I believe that effective communication is the foundation of successful collaboration. By truly understanding the perspectives and ideas of my team members, I can contribute to meaningful discussions and find innovative solutions.

If I could invite any historical figure to join our team, it would be Leonardo da Vinci. His unparalleled creativity, curiosity, and multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving would bring a unique perspective to our team's endeavors. His ability to merge art, science, and innovation would inspire us to think outside the box and push the boundaries of our project.

One thing I appreciate about each team member is their dedication and commitment to our shared goals. Each person brings their unique skills and expertise to the table, and their unwavering determination motivates me to give my best and contribute to the team's success.

My favorite team-building activity or game is a scavenger hunt. It encourages collaboration, problem-solving, and effective communication. It also allows team members to bond and have fun while working towards a common objective.

As part of this team, one goal I hope to achieve is to foster a culture of continuous learning and growth. I believe that by encouraging knowledge sharing, providing opportunities for professional development, and embracing feedback, we can collectively enhance our skills and achieve outstanding results.

Reflecting on our team's accomplishments, one that stands out is successfully completing a challenging project ahead of schedule. Despite facing unexpected obstacles and tight deadlines, we rallied together, leveraged our strengths, and supported each other to deliver exceptional results. This accomplishment not only showcased our ability to overcome adversity but also strengthened our bond as a team.

A memorable team experience where we overcame a big challenge together was during a client presentation. We encountered technical difficulties moments before the presentation was scheduled to begin. However, through quick thinking, effective problem-solving, and teamwork, we managed to resolve the issues and deliver a seamless presentation. This experience highlighted our ability to remain calm under pressure and support each other in critical moments.

If our team was a superhero group, our team name would be "The Collaborators." This name represents our commitment to working together, leveraging our individual strengths, and achieving extraordinary results through synergy and collaboration.

One thing I admire about the team's collaborative efforts is the willingness of each member to actively contribute their ideas and perspectives. We have created a safe and inclusive environment where everyone's voice is valued and respected. This openness to diverse viewpoints allows us to explore innovative solutions and make well-informed decisions.

Three words that describe our team dynamic are synergy, trust, and resilience. Synergy because we are greater together than the sum of our individual contributions. Trust because we have built a strong foundation of trust and mutual respect, enabling us to rely on each other and take calculated risks. Resilience because we have faced challenges head-on, learned from setbacks, and emerged stronger as a team.

By incorporating these additional paragraphs, we can delve deeper into the significance of team building, share personal experiences and insights, and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the ice breaker questions and their impact on team dynamics.

10 Ice Breaker Questions for New Team Members

Welcoming new team members into an existing team can be a bit intimidating. Ice breaker questions can help ease the transition and make the new members feel more comfortable. Use the following questions to help new team members introduce themselves:

• What inspired you to join our team?
• Share one interesting fact about your hometown.
• What do you hope to contribute to our team?
• What is one hobby or interest you enjoy outside of work?
• If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
• Share a challenging project or problem you have previously worked on and how you resolved it.
• What are you most excited about as a new member of this team?
• What is one valuable skill or experience you bring to the team?
• Describe one team or group experience you had that positively impacted your growth as a professional.
• What is something you would like to learn or achieve during your time with our team?

Questions to Welcome Newcomers

A warm welcome is essential when new members join the team. Consider using these questions to make them feel valued and included:

• What are some goals you have for yourself within this team?
• What is one thing you are looking forward to experiencing as part of our team?
• If you could have lunch with anyone, living or dead, who would it be, and what would you ask them?
• What is one thing you hope to learn from the existing team members?
• What made you choose our team over other opportunities?

10 Ice Breaker Questions for Creative Thinking

Unleashing creativity within a team can lead to innovative ideas and groundbreaking solutions. Use these thought-provoking questions to spark creativity:

• If you had unlimited resources, what project would you create?
• What is the most innovative idea you have ever had?
• Share a product or invention you wish existed and explain how it would improve people's lives.
• What is your favorite way to unleash your creativity outside of work?
• If you could re-design one thing in the world, what would it be, and why?
• What is one recent trend or development that you find fascinating?
• Describe a time when you challenged traditional thinking and came up with a unique solution.
• How do you foster a creative mindset in your daily life?
• What role do you think creativity plays in problem-solving?
• What is the most significant innovation you have seen in our industry in the past year?

Questions to Encourage Innovative Thinking

These additional questions can help explore innovative thinking from different angles:

• What is one piece of advice you would give to someone looking to think outside the box?
• Share an example of when you took a risk and implemented an innovative idea.
• If you had the power to change one aspect of our industry, what would it be, and why?
• What is one creative project you would love to work on with the team?
• How does diversity and inclusion contribute to innovation?

By incorporating these ice breaker questions into your virtual meetings, you can create an engaging, inclusive, and productive environment. Remember that the goal is not only to break the ice but also to foster meaningful connections, encourage collaboration, and spark creative thinking. So, next time you gather your team for a virtual meeting, don't forget to start with an ice breaker question and enjoy the positive impact it brings!

Try our AI-powered Icebreaker Questions Generator for personalized icebreakers in just seconds

Like what you see?

‍ Inspired to take your webinars and virtual events to the next level? Unlock the full potential with Remo's cutting-edge platform Elevate your gatherings with Remo's dynamic features. Sign up today and embark on a journey of unforgettable connections and growth! Book a demo today!

Ice breaker

Supercharge Your Event Engagement and ROI

Discover how Remo can boost your event’s attendance, engagement, and value

3.2x attendee engagement

Authentic breakout room networking

Interactive & immersive presentation features

Fully branded event spaces

Related Articles

10 Fun Halloween Ice Breakers to Get the Party Started

August 16, 2023

10 Fun Thanksgiving Ice Breakers to Get the Conversation Started

10 Fun Christmas Icebreakers to Get the Party Started

Fun icebreaker questions and games for all teams

Icebreakers are a fantastic way to get team members acquainted with each other—especially if teams work remotely or there are new faces in the office. We often spend more time with our coworkers than family or friends. But teams don’t always know the best icebreaker questions or games. You can use these simple team-building activities to quickly help diffuse anxiety or awkward silences in meetings. Ice breakers are especially valuable for remote teams that conduct virtual meetings via video conferencing since team building is even harder when the whole team is distributed. Read on to find out how easy it is to create funny, insightful, and meaningful icebreakers.

• What are icebreakers?

Icebreakers are team-building exercises that aim to bond team members and facilitate collaborative work. They can ease team cohesion and even boost friendship and goodwill among the group. They can be questions that elicit profound answers, or fun games that help small groups connect through laughter.

Why businesses consistently use icebreakers

Every organization can benefit from simple and fun icebreaker activities. These team-building events can help whether you have a new team, welcome a new team member, or just want to work more closely together and facilitate team bonding. The best icebreakers allow attendees to warm up, understand each other, and face work challenges as a team. They are also super useful when you are starting remote meetings — they help the team bond and get ready for the task at hand.

Here is how you can use icebreaking games in your team:

To get to know each other

Getting to know your coworkers can be a powerful catalyst for better work results. Icebreakers are a lot more fun than just having everybody introduce themselves. They can help your team learn everyone’s names, understand each other’s backgrounds and interests, and then start a meaningful conversation.

To break down the “work” barrier

Many coworkers only interact with each other in a formal setting, which can lack the personal and human depth of regular conversation. Interactive icebreakers can significantly connect team members and help them feel more comfortable around each other. Humor and personal connection have long been used to “break the ice” in social settings. Laughter and sharing help us relax, whether we’re in the same room together or half a world away.

To interact with new faces

New member on the team? Maybe there’s a whole new team? An icebreaker can speed up the cohesion process so people feel comfortable and ready to work with each other. Interacting with new coworkers can be intimidating and challenging, but bonding over interests like sports or pop culture or family similarities comes easily using icebreaker questions and games.

To bond as a team

Icebreakers also provide a great opportunity for participants to voice expectations and concerns, and address the topics of meetings. They open up, empathize with their colleagues, and work together better. Icebreakers are a proven way to focus and motivate the team.

To encourage creative thinking

Icebreaker games help creativity to flourish. Coming up with fun stories instead of just following a meeting agenda sets the tone for the rest of the meeting. Participants are more likely to come up with good ideas, be more creatively confident, and express themselves without fear.

• Icebreakers are more important than ever

Icebreakers are especially important for virtual teams that can’t all physically interact with each other. They can reduce the inherent challenges of working in distributed teams in a fun, easy way. Remote team members may not know one another, and may not have shared office space or personal interactions. But a quick virtual icebreaker activity can start things off right!

• 12 great icebreaker questions to ask in groups

Icebreaker questions can be fun or funny, deep and meaningful—or both. People’s answers can be surprising indicators of values and personality. They can also show team members’ work styles, and how they collaborate with colleagues.

Here’s the full list of icebreaker questions:

1. What was your favorite childhood movie? 2. What is one item you couldn’t live without? 3. If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be? 4. If you were an animal, what kind would you be? 5. If you could have dinner with anybody in history, dead or alive, who would it be, and why? 6. What unusual or quirky things do you do regularly? 7. What’s your favorite 80s movie? 8. What’s your unusual talent? 9. If you were stranded on a desert island, what band or music would you want? 10. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? 11. What’s your biggest guilty pleasure? 12. What’s the greatest challenge you overcame?

1. What was your favorite childhood movie?

What did the movie make you think and feel at the time? This question can show what makes experiences memorable to the participant.

2. What is one item you couldn’t live without?

What made you choose that item? This is a great question to ask because it shows what participants value. It can also provide opportunities to discuss use and design.

3. If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Answers to this question can reveal the breadth of participants’ tastes. They can also reveal how well they tolerate regular routines.

4. If you were an animal what would you be?

This is a great question because choosing an animal to identify with can reveal participants’ thoughts on what traits these animals have. Why are these traits desirable? How do they relate to us humans?

5. If you could have dinner with anybody in history, dead or alive, who would it be, and why?

By choosing a historical, literary, artistic, political, sports, or entertainment figure, this question shows the characteristics and achievements participants value. What is it about this person that inspires you?

6. What unusual or quirky things do you do regularly?

This probing question can show self-confidence in revealing vulnerabilities. It can also reveal characteristics uniquely suited to solving workplace issues.

7. What’s your favorite ’80s movie?

This question can show how participants spend time outside of work. Also, it can show their lighter sides, as well as how seriously they take themselves.

8. What’s your unusual talent?

What do you do better than anyone you know? This question can reveal how participants view themselves, and their strengths.

9. If you were stranded on a desert island, what band or music would you want?

Do you play music? This is a great question to find out people’s tastes and hobbies outside of work.

10. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

This question can reveal people’s breadth of travel and experience. In addition, it can show their openness to new cultures and people.

11. What’s your biggest guilty pleasure?

Answers to this question can reveal much about people’s values. It also can show how comfortable they are sharing their weaknesses.

12. What’s the greatest challenge you overcame?

What did you learn from it? People’s answers to this show their resilience, diligence, and perseverance.

• 10 great icebreaker games

Icebreaker games can be a fun way to refine goals and dissolve monotony in meetings. Employees may come in already stressed about work tasks. Using tools as simple as a piece of paper, a whiteboard, or a shared document, these quick games can help team members motivate and focus ahead.

Here’s the list of icebreakers games you can try:

1. Rock paper scissors tournament 2. Interview a partner for 5 minutes and then tell the group about them 3. Aliens have landed 4. The birth map 5. Mindfulness icebreaker 6. Two truths and a lie 7. A picture of your life 8. 10 common things 9. Scavenger hunt 10. Guess the artist 11. Marshmallow challenge 12. Line up 13. One-word exercise 14. Flat lay your desk 15. A tour guide

1. Rock paper scissors tournament

This twist on the classic game is played by two people. The losers of each game then go on to cheer for the winners who go on to the next rounds, until the final two compete to the cheers of everyone. It can show people’s reflexes, responsiveness, and spontaneity, and can even be a springboard for brainstorming. The game energizes the team and emphasizes teamwork and collaboration.

2. Interview a partner for 5 minutes and then tell the group about them

Ask about their hobbies, what especially stimulates or challenges them at work, and other important interests in their lives. Switch places and do the same for your partner. This game highlights listening and communication skills and can help team members discover common interests with one another.

3. Aliens have landed

This icebreaker can be useful for teams with remote participants with language and cultural differences. Tell the group to imagine aliens have landed on Earth and want to learn about your company. But since they don’t speak your language or understand your product, it needs to be explained with five symbols or pictures. Ask each participant to upload five simple images that best describe and communicate your company’s products and culture to a shared document/folder. Take a few minutes and look at all the images. Are there common themes?  Aliens Have Landed is a great game to play to break the ice with your remote team.

4. The home map

This is especially great for international teams. Print a map of the world or upload it to a shared document or visual workspace, like Miro. At the beginning of your meeting, ask everyone on your team to put a sticker or a pin on the map to show where they’re from. Then encourage everyone to share a short story about what they love most about that place. If they traveled around growing up, as which place they loved the most.

This great activity shows the diversity of voices represented on your team. It allows people to share their cultural values and reveals what everyone shares, no matter where in the world they live.

5. Mindfulness icebreaker

Participants write down ideas, thoughts, or feelings they’ve brought to the meeting. People often enter meetings stressed about tasks they’re working on or other issues. This helps them check in with themselves, and process these thoughts and feelings. They then rip up their answers, which allows them to maintain their privacy, and then focus on group tasks ahead.

6. Two truths and a lie

This popular game has team members guess which of your three statements is a lie. It can encourage colleagues to pay close attention to your personal traits and stories. As well as attention to detail, it also encourages focus on consistency.

7. A picture of your life

Add every member of the team to a shared document or an visual workspace before the meeting begins, and ask them to post a picture of something from their life. It can be anything that will tell a story about who each member is or how they work: a picture of the shoes each member is wearing, the view out their window or a photo of their desk. Then ask them to share the story behind their picture.

Here at Miro, we used this icebreaker game before a remote workshop about User Personas. The task was to share a picture of something on your desk that tells a story about who you are or how you work. In addition to this, we shared one thing we learned recently. It was fun and surprising in some cases, allowing us to get to know each other more and set the casual atmosphere we needed for the workshop.

8. 10 common things

This game is good for starting a brainstorming session. Divide your team into small groups and ask them to come up with a list of 10 things they have in common. If you prefer to keep the topic more business-oriented, limit the list to work or industry-related topics.

It can be as simple as, “We all wear shoes,” to something more specific like, “We were all hired in 2020.” Regardless of the answers, it will create a bond, generate discussion and laughter, and get the group thinking creatively. Allow time for each group of remote workers to share their list with the larger team in the visual workspace. This will create an electric, dynamic atmosphere, well suited to brainstorming.

9. Scavenger hunt

This versatile game often has fond childhood associations and can be done anywhere, whether in the office or outside. In many creative ways, it uses a variety of skills, strategic thinking, and problem-solving methods, to find the hidden items. It can especially help people who might have different styles or don’t normally work together and bond together as a team.

10. Guess the artist

Before your meeting, ask every remote employee to create an image or find a picture they can use to tell a unique story or fact about their lives. Everyone should upload their images to a visual workspace in advance. At the beginning of the meeting, everyone puts stickers on each image, guessing who each picture belongs to. Then you can start to figure out together which picture belongs to which person. When a correct guess is made, that person needs to share their story with the group. Include a video for the storytelling so everyone can connect the name, face, and story.

When a correct guess is made, that person needs to share their story with the group.

11. Marshmallow challenge

This well-known icebreaker game has teams build the tallest free-standing structure out of dry spaghetti, tape, string, and a marshmallow (which must be on top). It emphasizes group communication, leadership dynamics, collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving strategy.

12. Line up

In this game, participants must quickly line up without any written or verbal cues, or any other help. The criteria are predetermined and include factors such as height, hair color, or eye color. This game encourages nonverbal communication and teamwork, and tasks get more complicated as the team grows closer.

13. One-word exercise

Starting from your designated meeting topic, pick a phrase that relates to the central theme. Have participants write down a word that they associate with it. This game allows everyone to share hesitations and expectations, and then focus on the task ahead.

14. Flat lay your desk

This is a remote team-building exercise we picked up from 6Q team . “You could get your team members to take a flat lay of their desk and share it with the rest during your team meetings ,” they suggest, adding, “A flat lay is basically a photo of items from directly above, and these items are usually arranged or styled on a flat surface.” Sharing the story behind an object can also be a good way to learn more about your colleagues’ personalities.

15. A tour guide

When your team members are remote, it can be a great idea to schedule an actual tour of each remote employee’s location! They can show their office space, guide the team through their home, or co-working space, or, if technology allows, livestream from a place they love in their city or town. You can use a live streaming service or a social network like Snapchat or Instagram. This exercise is great for building empathy and giving each remote team member some context to understand their colleagues’ backgrounds (particularly great for international teams). Just make sure your team is on board and has access to the technology needed to do this game before attempting.

To learn more, check out Miro’s  Icebreaker Game Guide

Create icebreakers for your team.

Personal interactions are the key to building positive relationships and results. By facilitating strong connections with colleagues, you can increase employee fulfillment and ensure success at work. Icebreakers can work for any type of organization. Best of all, they don’t have to be complicated. With the Miro Icebreaker Template , you can make them easily!

• How Miro helps remote teams collaborate

The greatest projects are created when teams collaborate, and when individuals can share their creativity with ease. Miro’s visual workspace and templates and tools help create the most amazing products faster, by allowing remote teams to quickly understand how best to work together.

Whether you are an agile product team, UX and UI designer, project leader, marketer, or developer, you can collaborate with your distributed team in real time — just as if you were in the same room. You can use the infinite canvas and a wide range of tools to organize your teamwork in a visual way:

• Сreate agile boards (user story maps and retrospectives)
• Manage backlog
• Brainstorm and organize ideas
• Create wireframes and mockups
• Collect references
• Create flowcharts and diagrams
• Get feedback on visuals
• Work with sticky notes

You can also use collaboration features like simple sharing options, real-time collaboration, mentions, comments, and integration with Slack, JIRA, Google Drive, and other tools. Join thousands of businesses that use Miro to boost collaboration!

Try Miro Today!

Miro is your team's visual platform to connect, collaborate, and create — together..

Join millions of users that collaborate from all over the planet using Miro.

• Why businesses consistently useicebreakers

Keep reading

6 activities and templates to unite your cross-functional team.

8 agile games to boost team building & creativity

10 virtual games for your next team building meeting.

100 Great Ice Breaker Questions for Virtual Meetings

Hosting engaging virtual meetings is a big challenge. You want to ensure each team member feels a sense of belonging and excitement in a video call.

One simple way to get closer to this goal is to ask thought provoking or fun icebreaker questions. But isn't it tiring to always ask the same shallow questions about whether someone is a dog person or a cat person? What about favorite ice cream flavor?

Don't worry, we dive deeper, fostering real connections that enhance virtual team building and bring laughter and thoughtfulness into our digital gathering spaces.

Here's how we've categorized great ice breaker questions for virtual meetings:

Energizing and Funny Icebreaker questions

Reflective and personal icebreaker questions, cognitive challenge icebreaker questions, wildcard and creative icebreaker questions, random icebreaker generator.

These questions aim to inject energy into the group and can be a great way to start a meeting on a light-hearted note.

• If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?
• What’s your go-to karaoke song and why?
• If you could only eat one favorite food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
• Imagine you’re an infamous villain. What would be your super-villain name?
• What’s the most unusual place you’ve ever visited?
• If you could instantly become an expert in something, what would it be?
• What's the most embarrassing fashion trend you followed, and do you have photo evidence?
• Share the funniest video you’ve recently seen online.
• If you could add a word to the dictionary, what word would it be, and what does it mean?
• What’s a silly fear you have?
• Which movie would be greatly improved if it was made into a musical?
• What would the title of your autobiography be?
• If you could be a character in any TV show, who would you be and why?
• What’s your most used emoji?
• What’s the weirdest food you’ve ever eaten?
• If you could bring back any fashion trend, what would it be?
• Would you rather fight one horse-sized duck or a hundred duck-sized horses?
• If your life was a hashtag, what would it be?
• What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given but never followed?
• Tell us about a nickname you have and how you got it.
• If you were ice cream, what flavor would you be and why?
• What’s something that everyone looks stupid doing?
• If you had to eat one meal every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
• If you could be any supernatural creature, what would you be?
• What’s one of the most hilarious childhood memories you can think of?

Questions in this category help participants share something about themselves in a more meaningful way. They promote personal connection and empathy within remote teams.

• What’s one book that has profoundly affected your life?
• What’s a hobby you’ve always wanted to pick up but never did?
• Share a piece of wisdom that someone in your family passed down to you.
• If you could dedicate a year of your life to serving a cause, what would it be?
• What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from your career thus far?
• Describe a “perfect day” for you, from morning to night.
• What’s one goal you are determined to achieve in your lifetime?
• What’s your earliest memory that makes you smile?
• If you had the chance to go back in time for 24 hours, where and when would you go?
• What's a memorable virtual team building activity that made you feel truly part of the team?
• What are three things on your bucket list?
• If you could learn any skill instantly, what would it be?
• What’s one thing you’ve done that you’d advise others never to try?
• Which historical figure would you like to have coffee with?
• What’s a talent you have that most people don’t know about?
• What’s a challenge you’ve overcome that made you stronger?
• Tell us about a place you’ve been that felt like a different planet.
• What’s one thing you’re looking forward to in the next year?
• What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?
• Share a random act of kindness you’ve either given or received.
• What’s a moment in your life that felt like a crossroads?
• If you could send a message to the entire world, what would you say in 30 seconds?
• What’s something you believe in that not everyone agrees with?
• Tell us about a “hidden gem” in the city or town you live in.
• If you could witness any event of the past, present, or future, what would it be?

These are thought-provoking questions that require a bit more thinking and are great for meetings where you want to stimulate creativity or problem-solving right from the start.

• If you could solve one world problem, what would it be and how would you tackle it?
• What's one invention you can't believe hasn't been created yet?
• If you had to teach a class on one topic you’re passionate about, what would it be and why?
• What's a controversial opinion you have about a popular book or movie?
• If our virtual meeting was a spaceship, what role would you play in our mission?
• What's the most compelling piece of trivia you know?
• Describe your thought process if you were to invent a new color.
• How would you describe the internet to someone from the 19th century?
• If you could enhance humans with one ability from the animal kingdom, what would it be?
• What's a prediction you have for the future that others might find surprising?
• If you had the power to merge two different animals to create the ultimate creature, what would they be?
• What do you think would be humanity’s reaction to the discovery of extraterrestrial life?
• If you could live in any fictional world for a week, which one would you choose?
• Which scientific mystery or phenomenon do you find most interesting?
• If you were to write a book, what genre would it be and what would be the main storyline?
• What’s something that seems obvious to you, but others seem to disagree with?
• If you could design a new planet, what would be the most important feature?
• What’s a piece of technology you think will change the future?
• If you could add a new subject to the school curriculum, what would it be?
• What’s a skill or craft you think everyone should learn?
• If you were a detective solving a case, what would be your signature method?
• How would you use a time machine to benefit mankind without causing any paradoxes?
• What’s an ethical dilemma that you find particularly intriguing?
• If you could have a conversation with any person from history, who would it be and what would you discuss?
• If you could witness any event in history, what would it be and why?

This is a mix of unusual, unexpected, or off-the-wall questions that don't fit neatly into other categories. They're designed to prompt surprise and spontaneous reactions that can lead to memorable moments.

• If you were a superhero, what would your catchphrase be?
• What’s the most imaginative nickname you can come up with for yourself?
• If you could instantly master any art form, which would it be?
• If your life was a genre of music, what would it be?
• What’s an unusual skill you’d love to learn, just for fun?
• If you were to become a famous artist, what would you be known for?
• Imagine you’re a chef; describe your signature dish.
• If you could design your own planet, what would be the most unusual feature?
• What’s a strange combination of flavors that you enjoy?
• If you had to live in a movie for a week, which one would you choose?
• If you could create a new holiday, what would it celebrate?
• If you could turn any activity into an Olympic sport, in which would you have a good chance at winning a medal?
• Describe your dream house if there were no budget constraints.
• If you could have any mythical creature as a pet, what would it be?
• If you could open a restaurant, what kind of food would you serve?
• What’s a piece of technology from science fiction you wish existed?
• If you could exchange lives with any fictional character for a day, who would it be?
• What’s the title of the current chapter of your life?
• If your personality was a city, which city would it be?
• If you could compose a theme song for yourself, what instruments would be in it?
• What’s the most creative excuse you’ve ever used to get out of something?
• If you were a fashion designer, what kind of clothing would you design?
• What’s an activity you think could bring about world peace?
• If you had to give a TED talk tomorrow, what would it be about?
• If you could invent a new ice cream flavor, what would be the most outrageous flavor combination you’d try?

Icebreaker questions are more than just conversation starters—they're helpful for virtual team building. Here's a more detailed breakdown of their benefits:

Bridging the Digital Gap: Using fun icebreaker questions turns our virtual meetings into friendly gatherings, helping everyone on the team feel connected, even when we're far apart.

Building Team Spirit: Each question is a stepping stone towards stronger team building, helping members find common ground, from favorite foods to bucket list adventures.

Promoting Participation: Icebreaker questions encourage everyone to contribute, ensuring that each virtual team member, new or established, has a voice.

So, in your next virtual team gathering, leverage these questions not only to break the ice but also to forge connections that resonate beyond the screen. Remember, a simple question can lead to a shared laugh or a moment of insight, making every virtual interaction count.

Now, go ahead and use these icebreaker questions to enliven your next online session, where every participant can feel connected, engaged, and valued—ready to collaborate and innovate.

What are 5 great ice breaker questions?

1. The Dream Vacation: "If you could teleport to any place on Earth for a day, where would you go and why?"

2. Culinary Curiosities: "What's the most interesting dish you've ever tried, and would you eat it again?"

3. Hidden Talents: "Do you have a skill or hobby that no one at work knows about?"

4. Book or Movie Swap: "Which book or movie has had a significant impact on you, and why?"

5. Time Travel: "If you could witness any historical event in person, which one would you choose?"

What is a fun ice breaker question for work meeting?

The Superpower Scenario: "If you could have any superpower just during work hours, what would it be and how would it boost your productivity or team collaboration?"

This question is fun as it invites creativity and can lead to humorous as well as insightful discussions about work styles and team dynamics. It’s a light-hearted way to start a meeting that can also reveal what team members value in their workday.

How to Make Your Meetings Inclusive

How to Draft a Perfect Pre-Meeting Email Template

Agenda Approval During Board Meetings and How to Do It Right

How to Write the Notice of Meeting (With Template)

16 Best Cold Call Opening Lines for Sales Reps

How to Run a Project Premortem in 6 Steps

12 Creative Agenda Templates for Common Team Meetings

How to Give Feedback on Presentation (Step by Step Guide)

How to Draft a Winning Post-Sales Handoff (With Template)

Agile vs. Waterfall vs. Scrum vs. Kanban: What’s the Difference?

Product Owner vs. Product Manager (Explained)

Everything You Need to Know About Roadmap Meetings

Guide to Sales One-on-One Meetings (With Template)

Remote Work vs Work From Home (Which Is Right for You?)

Executive Session Minutes: Explanation + Example

Sign up for wudpecker. it's free..

Join professionals and teams supercharging their productivity with Wudpecker.

15 Best Virtual Icebreakers For Remote & Distributed Teams In 2024

If you’re working remotely or hosting virtual meetings, you know how challenging it can be to make everyone feel connected and engaged.

Fortunately, virtual icebreakers are a great way to liven up the mood and encourage participation. These small interactive activities are typically used at the start of a meeting to help energize people and drive lively discussions.

“Building up team relationships by doing activities and encouraging collaboration can really drive up employee morale.”

Gusto reported that 37% of workers said being able to work with a great team was the top reason for staying at a company.

Virtual icebreakers can be used for a variety of purposes, such as team building, training sessions, and networking events. They can help break down barriers and encourage people to be more active throughout the meeting . Whether you’re working with a small or large group , there are plenty of online icebreakers to choose from that are both fun and effective.

When done right, online icebreakers can help create a more positive and engaging virtual environment. They can also help you get to know your colleagues or team members better, even if you’re not physically in the same space.

So the next time you’re hosting a virtual meeting, consider incorporating a virtual icebreaker to help set the tone and get everyone involved.

Without further ado, let’s get started!

Page Contents (Click To Jump)

Benefits of Virtual Icebreakers

Virtual icebreakers are a great way to start a meeting, especially when working remotely. They can spark conversations, build trust, and create a sense of community among team members.

Here are some major benefits of virtual icebreakers:

✅ Benefit 1: Increased Collaboration

Virtual or Zoom icebreakers can help to increase collaboration among team members. Some activities may require team members to work together to solve a puzzle or problem. This can encourage them to learn how to work with others productively .

✅ Benefit 2: Improved Communication

Using virtual icebreakers is a great way to enhance communication within a team. They offer a chance for team members to interact, learn more about each other, and share personal information.

✅ Benefit 3: Increased Engagement

Using virtual icebreakers can improve team member engagement. They can provide a fun and interactive way to start team meetings, which can help to create a positive and engaging atmosphere.

✅ Benefit 4: Reduced Stress

Using virtual icebreaker activities can be a helpful tool in reducing stress for team members as they create a more comfortable and relaxed working environment and can assist with breaking the ice.

15 Best Virtual Icebreakers for Work

1) use a virtual icebreaker template.

If you’re short on time or ideas, or you want to make online meetings more fun, there are plenty of virtual icebreaker templates available online that you can use. These templates come with pre-made questions and activities that you can customize to fit your team’s needs.

🚨 Why this is a good virtual icebreaker: Using a template is a great way to quickly get your team engaged and have fun without having to spend too much time creating activities or questions.

🚀 Start here: Virtual Icebreaker Template

2) Would You Rather Icebreaker Questions

This classic icebreaker game is a perfect conversation starter for virtual teams. Simply ask a series of “would you rather” questions and have team members vote on their preferred option.

🚨 Why this is a good virtual icebreaker: This is a simple yet great icebreaker, and it can be used to learn more about employees and coworkers in a relaxed environment. Participants will get to know about each other’s favorite foods or favorite movies. Plus, you can make it as silly or serious as you like.

🚀 Start here: Would You Rather Icebreaker Questions

3) Coworker Feud

Coworker Feud is a fun virtual icebreaker that offers an electrifying entertainment experience that’s perfect for playing with a remote team. With easy setup, it’s easy to jump right into the action.

🚨 Why this is a good virtual icebreaker: Coworker Feud helps to break the ice and allows you to get to know your colleagues better. You’ll be faced with light-hearted questions that will require you and your coworkers to think quickly and come up with creative answers – perfect for getting everyone laughing!

🚀 Start here: Coworker Feud

4) 5 Min Cocktail Mixer

Have team members bring their favorite cocktail recipes and ingredients to the virtual meeting. Then, have everyone make their cocktails together and enjoy a virtual happy hour.

🚨 Why this is a good virtual icebreaker: Hosting this activity is an excellent way to encourage employees to socialize in a fun and laid-back manner. Additionally, individuals who like preparing cocktails are likely to enjoy it!

🚀 Start here: 5 Min Cocktail Mixer

5) Draw Your Character Doodle Icebreaker

Unleash your creativity and engage with your coworkers, colleagues, and employees with Draw Your Character Doodle Icebreaker! With this interactive whiteboard game, everyone can have an individual moment to introduce themselves.

🚨 Why this is a good virtual icebreaker: It’s a fun way to get a conversation going while still ensuring everyone gets their chance to shine. All of the characters can then be shared on the screen so that everyone involved is introduced. This is a suitable virtual team building activity for large as well as small groups.

🚀 Start here: Draw Your Character Doodle Icebreaker

6) Murder Mystery Party

In this virtual experience, professional actors will bring a thrilling case to life and participants must use their powers of deduction to crack the case. Team members will investigate clues, decipher riddles , and unlock secrets that will lead them to the identity of the killer.

🚨 Why this is a good virtual icebreaker: Employers can use this entertaining activity as a team icebreaker, while employees will love the fun and interesting challenge of becoming detectives.

🚀 Start here: Murder Mystery Party

7) Geoguessr

Geoguessr is a popular online game that allows you and your colleagues to explore different parts of the world. With this game, you will have to guess where in the world you are by looking at clues from the environment around you.

🚨 Why this is a good virtual icebreaker: This is a fun and suitable virtual icebreaker for remote teams as it allows everyone to engage in friendly competition, learn about one another, and have a blast doing it. Additionally, Geoguessr encourages collaboration as players must work together to make educated guesses about the image they’re presented with. It also has positive impacts on team morale as it provides an opportunity for everyone to connect in a virtual environment.

🚀 Start here: Geoguessr

8) Virtual Office Olympics

This virtual icebreaker for large or small groups will have your employees and colleagues teaming up to complete a series of challenges in record time. With Virtual Office Olympics, you can bring friendly competition into the workplace by having teams battle against the clock to earn points with Olympic-style achievements.

🚨 Why this is a good virtual icebreaker: This team building activity promotes teamwork, healthy competition, and communication. It is also an excellent activity for introducing new team members or adding some variety to a lengthy meeting.

🚀 Start here: Virtual Office Olympics

9) Original Game Show

The Original Game Show is a unique combination of classic games such as “Family Feud,” and “Minute to Win It,” and guarantees that there’s something for everyone in your group. This 45-minute 2-hour experience will have your entire crew roaring with laughter and excitement.

🚨 Why this is a good virtual icebreaker: A professional host will guide participants through the witty challenges and lighthearted competition designed to entertain your team members and get them excited about the experience.

🚀 Start here: Original Game Show

10) Big Game Virtual Party

This interactive tool allows users to connect in real time. With a user-friendly map view, it’s easy to see where everyone is watching from so no one misses out on all the action.

🚨 Why this is a good virtual icebreaker: This customizable party hosting panel lets employers share their watch party link with colleagues, as well as custom pre-game playlists, snack recipes, and more.

🚀 Start here: Big Game Virtual Party

11) Emotions Wheel Icebreaker

The Emotions Wheel Ice-Breaker template is a tool designed to facilitate communication and understanding among teams and colleagues, regardless of their location. It aims to start important conversations and bridge gaps between people. To indicate their current emotional state, give your team members the template and request them to pick a dot and position it on the section of the wheel that most accurately reflects their feelings.

🚨 Why this is a good virtual icebreaker: Encouraging team members to share their emotions is a great method to promote trust, understanding, positivity, and team bonding in the workplace. By playing soothing music, the atmosphere can become even more calming.

🚀 Start here: Emotions Wheel Icebreaker

12) Virtual Scavenger Hunt

This virtual game brings teams together to solve scavenger hunt challenges !  With Virtual Scavenger Hunt, you and your colleagues can test your problem-solving skills in a fun game that brings out the best in team collaboration. It’s a great way to bring focus, energy, and fun to remote meetings or a Zoom call.

🚨 Why this is a good virtual icebreaker: With levels that range from finding hidden objects to spotting the differences between two images, this game will stimulate each team member’s creativity in exciting new ways.

🚀 Start here: Virtual Scavenger Hunt

13) Virtual Trivia Icebreaker

This virtual game show comes with a host who will create a fun and lively atmosphere. Participants will be guided into separate breakout rooms to meet their competitors and prepare for the challenge. An excellent warm-up activity!

🚨 Why this is a good virtual icebreaker: This virtual team building activity consists of fast trivia rounds that will make everyone laugh while maintaining a friendly competitive spirit throughout the game. They will have loads of fun while making genuine connections with their colleagues.

🚀 Start here: Virtual Trivia Icebreaker

14) Happy Hour Committee Planning

Consider using a virtual happy hour as an opportunity to plan your company’s next event. This can increase enthusiasm and participation among team members. You can bring together various teams from different departments or companies and collaborate on ideas for a virtual event .

🚨 Why this is a good virtual icebreaker: This is an excellent way to get everyone excited about upcoming events! Plus, you can get valuable feedback on the planning process which can help ensure that your next virtual event is successful.

🚀 Start here: Happy Hour Committee Planning

15) Spy Hunt Game

You and your coworkers are gathered around a virtual table playing roles as either spy or spy hunter. The objective is to discover who among you is the secret agent, while the spy’s goal is to determine their location. It’s an exciting and engaging game that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

🚨 Why this is a good virtual icebreaker: This virtual icebreaker for remote teams is great for corporate team building or a workspace that needs an exciting activity. By playing, you and your colleagues will have the opportunity to work together and utilize your skills to achieve a common goal of identifying the spy. The game is immersive and will leave you talking and guessing.

🚀 Start here: Spy Hunt Game

People Also Ask These Questions About Virtual Icebreakers

Q: how do i choose a good icebreaker for my team.

• A: A good online icebreaker is engaging and interactive, fosters collaboration and teamwork, and breaks down barriers. It’s also important to consider who your team is composed of and the dynamic you want to create. Choose an icebreaker that suits the group size, team interests, and type of event whether in-person or online.

Q: How do I make a virtual icebreaker fun?

• A: To make a virtual icebreaker more fun, you can use digital tools and platforms. You can also add elements of competition, teamwork activities, brainstorming, collaboration challenges, and prizes to make the activity more engaging.

Q: What are some tips for effective virtual icebreakers?

• A: Some tips for running effective virtual icebreakers include setting a comfortable atmosphere, having everyone introduce themselves, and creating an environment of mutual respect. Additionally, you can make the icebreakers more interactive by using games or polls, allowing enough time for questions and comments, and encouraging team members to be creative and have fun.

Q: How do I make a virtual icebreaker successful?

• A: For a successful virtual icebreaker for team meetings, make sure that everyone is comfortable and able to participate. Set clear expectations and goals for the activity so everyone knows what to expect. Provide enough time for people to give feedback. Lastly, create an environment where everyone feels safe and valued.

Interested in a content partnership? Let’s chat!

Get Started

About SnackNation

SnackNation is a healthy office snack delivery service that makes healthy snacking fun, life more productive, and workplaces awesome. We provide a monthly, curated selection of healthy snacks from the hottest, most innovative natural food brands in the industry, giving our members a hassle-free experience and delivering joy to their offices.

Popular Posts

Want to become a better professional in just 5 minutes?

You May Also Like

🧩 19 Best Online Team Building Games for Remote Employees in 2024

🧘🏻‍♀️15 Employee Wellbeing Programs for the Ideal Workplace Environment in 2024

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

SnackNation About Careers Blog Tech Blog Contact Us Privacy Policy Online Accessibility Statement

Pricing How It Works Member Reviews Take the Quiz Guides and Resources FAQ Terms and Conditions Website Accessibility Policy

Exciting Employee Engagement Ideas Employee Wellness Program Ideas Thoughtful Employee Appreciation Ideas Best ATS Software Fun Office Games & Activities for Employees Best Employee Engagement Software Platforms For High Performing Teams [HR Approved] Insanely Fun Team Building Activities for Work

Fun Virtual Team Building Activities The Best Employee Recognition Software Platforms Seriously Awesome Gifts For Coworkers Company Swag Ideas Employees Really Want Unique Gifts For Employees Corporate Gift Ideas Your Clients and Customers Will Love

© 2024 SnackNation. Handcrafted in Los Angeles

• Recipient Choice Gifts
• Free Work Personality Assessment
• Happy Hour & Lunches
• Group eCards
• Office Snacks
• Employee Recognition Software
• Join Our Newsletter
• Partner With Us
• SnackNation Blog
• Employee Template Directory
• Gifts For Remote Employees
• ATS Software Guide
• Best Swag Vendors
• Top HR Tools
• Ways To Reward Employees
• Employee Appreciation Gift Guide
• More Networks

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies
• 3rd Party Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

• Join Mind Tools

Virtual Ice Breakers

Bringing remote workers together.

© iStockphoto pniesen

Break down the communication barriers caused by remote working.

Virtual ice breakers are a great way of overcoming one of the biggest challenges of managing a remote team – that is the lack of opportunities for team bonding.

It's no longer as simple as walking over to someone's desk for a quick catch up or having an informal chat round the "water cooler." Building rapport, developing lines of communication and simply getting to know your team mates takes effort when you all work from home.

But this can have serious implications. People may become less engaged and motivated over time. You might struggle to encourage creativity and problem-solving. And feelings of loneliness and isolation may increase.

Virtual ice breakers can help you to bring your team together and break down the communication barriers caused by remote working. In this article, we'll explain how virtual ice breakers can benefit your team and look at some examples that you could try out.

What Is a Virtual Ice Breaker?

Simply put, an ice breaker   is a game or activity that you can do with the members of your team to get to know each other better and stimulate conversation. Essentially they are designed to "break the ice." You might use one to get to know a new team member, or to kick off a training session or team event.

Virtual ice breakers are exactly the same, but they are done online via a video call or web chat. They can benefit your team in a number of ways. For example, they can:

• introduce new recruits to their teammates in a fun and engaging way.
• encourage people to learn more about one another.
• improve communication.
• build team rapport.
• bring an element of fun and interactivity to team meetings or brainstorming sessions.
• reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.
• help people to feel more relaxed and positive.

When to Use Virtual Ice Breakers

You can use virtual ice breakers at the start of any video team meeting, but there are a number of scenarios where they are particularly valuable. For example, if your team members work in different locations and aren't able to meet in person, they can help them to develop the sort of relationships and rapport that an office-based team would naturally.

Perhaps you've had to bring teams together from different organizations following a company or departmental merger. There may be initial suspicion about the "other" group at first, but a virtual ice breaker can help bring the two "sides" together, help them to develop trust and encourage cooperation.

An ice breaker can also be a great way of introducing new people to a team in a relaxed and fun way. This will help them to learn more about their new teammates (and vice versa) so that they can start developing new connections right from the "get go."

When Virtual Ice Breakers Aren't Appropriate

Ice breakers might not be appropriate for every virtual meeting. For example, spending time on a "fun" activity will likely annoy people if they are working under pressure and have a lot on, or if you are meeting to discuss a crisis   or emergency.

You might also hold off on using one if a senior manager joins the call. While it may be tempting to demonstrate your team's great working dynamic, it's more important to recognize that their time is likely limited. Getting to the point quickly might be a better idea!

Even if your team works remotely, an ice breaker might not be necessary. Participants might see the activity as patronizing or as a waste of time if they're already in regular contact.

An ice breaker could help to break down unhealthy cliques when a new person joins an already-established team. Initially, you may get "push back" from existing team members who think it's a waste of time. If this is the case, explain to them why you think it's a good a idea, and encourage them to fully engage and participate in the exercise.

Designing Your Virtual Ice Breaker

Consider these factors before choosing your virtual ice breaker:

• Establish a purpose. Ask yourself, "what "ice" do you want to break? Are you simply introducing people to one another for the first time? Are you bringing people together who work at different levels in your organization? Or people who have different cultures and backgrounds? You'll need to handle these differences sensitively and make sure that everyone can easily understand and get involved in the ice breaker.
• Define your goals and objectives. Do you want people to learn more about one another? Or is your objective more complex? For instance, do you want to encourage people to think creatively or to solve a particular problem?
• Help people feel comfortable. Your ice breaker will only be successful if everyone feels able to participate. So think about whether there are any obstacles that could hinder this, such as differences in language or culture   . Steer clear of activities that might inadvertently cause offence. Bear in mind that information can often get "lost in translation," and that jokes and humor don't always travel well!
• Take time into account. Do you want your ice breaker to be a quick five-minute activity or something more substantial? Take into account your purpose and objectives, as well as your team members' workloads and whether they are calling from different time zones.
• Choose your frequency. Consider whether the ice breaker is a one-off or if you want to make it a regular thing. Will you change your ice breaker every time? Will the same person always take the lead or will you rotate who gets to pick and lead the activity, if you decide to have one at the start of every meeting?
• Keep people's location in mind . Think about where your participants will likely be during your meeting. Will they all be at home? Will some be in an office? Or will they be travelling? This might affect how long they can spend on the call, and their level of participation and engagement.
• Consider technology. Make sure that everyone is using the same video chat software, and that they are familiar with how to use it beforehand. Also establish the format that your ice breaker will take. For instance, do you want all people to use their webcam? Or will a voice call be sufficient? Some people are "camera shy," have poor internet connection or may not have the right technology. If this is the case, you might want to choose an ice breaker that doesn't rely on people being able to see each other.
• Prep in advance. Decide how much information you'll need to provide your participants with beforehand. Do they, for example, need to bring a prop or prepare some information ahead of your meeting? Alternatively, you may want to keep the ice breaker a suprise, particularly if you want people to flex their creative muscles.

Finding This Article Useful?

You can learn another 151 communication skills, like this, by joining the Mind Tools Club.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Receive new career skills every week, plus get our latest offers and a free downloadable Personal Development Plan workbook.

Virtual Ice-Breaker Examples

Here are a few simple virtual ice breaker ideas to try out in your team:

Take a Picture of Your Shoes

The idea for this virtual ice breaker comes from online meeting service Lucid Meetings .

Ask each team member to take a picture of their shoes and upload it ahead of your meeting. This activity is best for video calls, but it can work on audio calls as well, as long as everyone can see each other's pictures.

At the start of the meeting, ask each participant to discuss their choice of shoe, and the "story" behind it. For example, one person might be wearing running shoes because they're into sports, or someone else might wear flip flops because they love to travel.

You can vary this exercise by asking each team member to take a picture of an object on their desk, and getting them to talk about it.

The Social Question

Ask each participant an ice breaker question. These can help to stimulate lively conversations and even debate. Most importantly, they'll enable people to get to know each other better, and encourage communication and team bonding.

The Time Machine

Ask the following question, to one participant at a time: "If you were able to travel through time, either forward or backward... :

• Where would you go?
• If backward, to which time period? Why?
• If there was a person you could go back in time and meet, who would it be, and why?
• Would you just want to visit and come back, or would you stay?"

Two Lies and a Truth

The idea for this ice breaker was developed by new media consultant Joitske Hulsebosch .

Ask each team member to prepare a list of three interesting "facts" about themselves, two of which must be made up. These could be anything, from a pet they own or a hobby they love to a famous person they've met.

Then, get other team members to pick which of the statements is true. The team member who receives the most incorrect votes "wins."

Virtual ice breakers are a great way of encouraging remote teams to bond and build rapport. They can also help to improve communication, stimulate creative thinking, build internal networks, and introduce new recruits to their co-workers in a fun, engaging and positive way.

Before choosing which virtual ice breaker you should use. Think about who your participants are, consider your purpose and your key goals and objectives. You'll also need to take into account the functionality of your participants' technology, as well as any differences in time zones and culture.

There are a wide variety of virtual ice breaker activities that you can choose from, including:

• Take a picture of your shoes/desk/surroundings.
• Social questions.
• The time machine.
• Two lies and a truth.

This site teaches you the skills you need for a happy and successful career; and this is just one of many tools and resources that you'll find here at Mind Tools. Subscribe to our free newsletter , or join the Mind Tools Club and really supercharge your career!

Rate this resource

The Mind Tools Club gives you exclusive tips and tools to boost your career - plus a friendly community and support from our career coaches! 

Comments (8)

• Over a month ago BillT wrote Hi Shimaa, Thank you for sharing your thoughts with us. BillT Mind Tools Team
• Over a month ago Shimaa wrote i found many good ideas to manag first class and break the ice in a nice way with enjoyable topics
• Over a month ago Gerard wrote We have developed a tool specific to help with virtual ice breakers.

Please wait...

How it works

For Business

Join Mind Tools

Article • 16 min read

Virtual Team-Building Exercises

Building connections when you're working remotely.

By the Mind Tools Content Team

Remote teams have fewer opportunities to socialize, making it difficult to get to know one another or new members. This can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection from our colleagues, and it may even lead to team conflict and reduced productivity.

Virtual team-building exercises can help remote teams to overcome these difficulties, and to drive a sense of community and shared understanding.

In this article, we'll explore why virtual team-building exercises matter, and how they can benefit your team. We'll also look at five team-building exercises that you can try with your team.

Virtual Team-Building FAQs

What are virtual activities.

Virtual activities require team members to take part remotely, using technology such as virtual meeting software, online chat, or instant messaging.

What do I need to get started with virtual team-building exercises?

Reliable video conferencing technology, and the skills to use it. Ideas for activities that will help to build teamworking skills. And, most importantly, good facilitation skills. Aim to keep the exercises moving so that people stay engaged.

What are some virtual team-building challenges?

You may sometimes encounter problems with the technology or with your internet connection. Virtual team building can also take longer to produce the desired results.

Why Virtual Team-Building Is Important

Teams can find it difficult to build rapport when they never meet "in real life." But developing and nurturing good working relationships is important for individuals to feel able to communicate openly, solve problems, and collaborate well. Virtual team building can also reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness in remote teams.

While some people question the value of team-building exercises, studies have shown that they improve teams' effectiveness and help to build trust. [1] These exercises can be equally effective for virtual teams.

Our article, Working in a Virtual Team , and Skillbook, How to Set Up a Virtual Team , provide advice on using technology to collaborate with people remotely, and on how to build effective virtual teams.

Setting up a Virtual Team-Building Exercise

Start by defining your purpose and objectives. For example, do you want to improve project management or negotiation skills? The outcome of your team-building exercise needs to meet your objective, and promote individual and team growth.

When setting up your exercises, consider how much time you have for each activity. Collaborative problem-solving exercises will take longer than quick "ice breakers."

Think, too, about the participants' cultural expectations and individual personalities. Introverts may find it harder to open up during team discussions. They may also be suffering from overstimulation if they're working from home. On the other hand, extroverts may tend to take over.

Some people on your team may not have met, so allow enough time for introductions. Where people don't know each other, use short, fun Virtual Ice Breakers to get started. And consider different ways people can contribute, so everyone has a voice.

To be truly effective, any team-building exercise must be part of a continual process, embedded into your team and organization's culture. They are not a "quick fix."

Five Virtual Team-Building Exercises

Let's look at some team-building exercises that you can use remotely with your team. They are designed to improve communication, build trust, develop listening skills, and enable your people to understand one another better.

Exercise 1: Four Facts and a Fib

This exercise is ideal for a team whose members don't know one another very well. It provides an informal platform for individuals to share personal information and build trust.

People and Materials

Suitable for groups of any size. Each participant needs a pen and paper.

Allow around 20 minutes for completion, depending on the size of the group.

Instructions

Ask the participants to write down five "facts" about themselves, one of which must be a lie – but a plausible one. For example, "I once swam with dolphins," not "I wrestled a shark!"

Allow participants enough time to write down their facts. Once they are finished, go around the group and ask each participant to read out their five facts.

As a group, guess which facts about each person are true and which is the lie. When each person has revealed their truths and lie, discuss the outcomes. Were any surprising? If so, were the truths more surprising than the lie?

Advice for Facilitator

If the group is not forthcoming at first, ask people directly which of the speaker's facts they think is a fib and why.

Exercise 2: Escape Room

An Escape Room is a themed challenge event where players collaborate to find clues, complete tasks, and solve a variety of puzzles. It can improve communication, collaboration and decision-making skills.

Escape Room games are typically suitable for teams of between three and six players, and require a significant amount of creative setup. In fact, it's often easier to use an external supplier.

Mind Tools Club members and corporate licensees can access our exclusive and original Escape Room game, "The Lost Labyrinth," comprising a downloadable game pack and Game Master Guide. See our Escape Room article for details.

The classic scenario is to escape within a time limit – usually an hour.

These vary from game to game, and can involve codebreaking, word games and math puzzles.

Advice for the Facilitator

Invest the time you need to understand and prepare the game properly. If teams get stuck, have some hints prepared to keep the action moving.

Exercise 3: Blind Origami

The purpose of this activity is to highlight the importance of listening and asking for feedback.

Any number of people, in virtual pairs.

Phone (without video) or messaging app.

A sheet of Letter or A4 size paper for each person.

Around 25 to 30 minutes.

Email one person from each pair a set of origami instructions. You can get these from many hobby websites. Try origame.me , for example.

The person with the instructions should guide their partner (the receiver) through the steps to create an origami structure, via messaging or videoconferencing software (but with the camera turned off).

The receiver can ask questions, request clarification, and offer feedback during the call.

When each group has finished, participants can turn their cameras back on to see whether the receiver got the origami structure right.

Rotate around the groups to see how they're getting on. When each group has finished, ask the partners to switch roles and repeat the exercise with a different design.

Once the second exercise has been done, ask participants how accurate each structure was. How difficult was it to listen and follow verbal instructions? How good was the feedback provided? Use the answers to identify areas where each pair could improve their listening and feedback skills.

Bring everyone back into the meeting to share some thoughts on listening effectively, and get them to think about some takeaways.

Exercise 4: Scrabble Scramble

This fun activity is designed to trigger creative thinking, encourage collaboration, and develop communication. It works best when you use a virtual meeting package like Zoom, which enables teams to split off into virtual breakout rooms.

This exercise is suitable for groups of approximately 12 or more. You'll need a bag of Scrabble tiles, and participants will need pens and paper.

Allow 20 minutes for completion.

Assign two or three letters chosen at random to each person.

Then split the group randomly into teams. The exercise will work best with six to nine people per team.

Ask each group to create as many words as they can in 10 minutes using their letters. Before starting, outline the rules below to the group:

• Each letter tile can be used only once in each word.
• Words must be three or more letters.
• Plurals of an already used word are not allowed. For example, you can have "tree" or "trees" but you can't have both.
• Proper names are not allowed, e.g. place names or forenames.

Each team can swap up to two of their letters before they start if they wish.

Teams get two points for three-letter words, three points for four-letter words, and so on. The longest word earns a bonus of five points.

Make clear whether or not teams are allowed to use a dictionary. If appropriate, offer a prize for the highest team score and longest word. Ask the teams to reflect on what they've learned. How did they work together to build words? Who took the lead? Who had the best ideas, and how did they arrive at them?

Exercise 5: Lost at Sea

This activity emphasizes decision making, collaboration, and critical thinking.

Teams of about five or six people. You can download our worksheet for the exercise here . Each participant needs their own copy.

Flexible, but aim for 25 to 40 minutes.

Give your team members a scenario where they're stranded at sea with just a handful of objects. They have to rank the objects in order of how useful they'd be in helping the group to survive. They should work individually first, and then as a team.

Divide participants into their teams, and provide everyone with a ranking sheet .

Step 1: Ask team members to take 10 minutes on their own to rank the items in order of importance. They should do this in the second column of their sheet.

Step 2: Give the teams a further 10 minutes to confer and decide on their group rankings. Once agreed, they should list them in the third column of their sheets.

Step 3: Ask each group to compare their individual rankings with their collective ones, and consider why any scores differ.

Step 4: Now read out the "correct" order, collated by the experts at the U.S. Coast Guard. You can find that here . Participants should add these to the sheet.

Step 5: Have the teams consider why they made the choices they did, and evaluate their performance against the experts' choices.

Ideally, teams will arrive at a consensus decision where everyone's opinion is heard. If discussions are dominated by a few people, draw the quieter people in so that everyone is involved. But explain why you're doing this, so that people learn from it.

Virtual team-building exercises are a great way to improve communication, build trust, increase creativity, reduce conflict, and help your team members to understand one another better.

They're also a useful way for people to get used to remote meetings and videoconferencing software.

Holding these exercises regularly gives your team members fun ways to interact and get to know one another. It encourages them to connect and to collaborate, and this can benefit your team and the organization as a whole.

You've accessed 1 of your 2 free resources.

Get unlimited access

Discover more content

Book Insights

The One Minute Negotiator: Simple Steps to Reach Better Agreements

Don Hutson and George Lucas

The Now Habit at Work: Perform Optimally, Maintain Focus, and Ignite Motivation in Yourself and Others

Add comment

Comments (0)

Be the first to comment!

Get 30% off your first year of Mind Tools

Great teams begin with empowered leaders. Our tools and resources offer the support to let you flourish into leadership. Join today!

Sign-up to our newsletter

Subscribing to the Mind Tools newsletter will keep you up-to-date with our latest updates and newest resources.

Subscribe now

Business Skills

Personal Development

Leadership and Management

Member Extras

Most Popular

Latest Updates

Written Communication

Stress Busters

Mind Tools Store

About Mind Tools Content

Discover something new today

Overcoming procrastination.

Discover effective techniques to help you beat your procrastination habit

Improving Productivity

How to get more done by focusing on critical tasks, managing stress and achieving flow

How Emotionally Intelligent Are You?

Boosting Your People Skills

Self-Assessment

What's Your Leadership Style?

Learn About the Strengths and Weaknesses of the Way You Like to Lead

Recommended for you

Core self-evaluations.

Using Self-Knowledge to Boost Your Success and Wellbeing at Work

Business Operations and Process Management

Strategy Tools

Customer Service

Business Ethics and Values

Handling Information and Data

Project Management

Knowledge Management

Self-Development and Goal Setting

Time Management

Presentation Skills

Learning Skills

Career Skills

Communication Skills

Negotiation, Persuasion and Influence

Working With Others

Difficult Conversations

Creativity Tools

Self-Management

Work-Life Balance

Stress Management and Wellbeing

Coaching and Mentoring

Change Management

Team Management

Managing Conflict

Delegation and Empowerment

Performance Management

Leadership Skills

Developing Your Team

Talent Management

Problem Solving

Decision Making

Member Podcast

61 Ice Breaker Games [That Your Team Won’t Find Cheesy]

Whether it's kicking off a meeting or getting to know new team members, an effective ice breaker game can help set the right tone and help build connections. But how do you choose the right one?

In this post, we'll share a collection of tried and tested ice breaker games you can use to engage and energize groups of any size. Whether you just want to have fun, encourage team building or level-up your meetings, there's an activity here for you.

Design your next session with SessionLab

Join the 150,000+ facilitators 
using SessionLab.

Recommended Articles

A step-by-step guide to planning a workshop, how to create an unforgettable training session in 8 simple steps, 47 useful online tools for workshop planning and meeting facilitation.

An in-depth study from TINYpulse , an employee engagement company, studied more than 40,000 workers’ inputs from more than 300 companies globally. They found a correlation of 0.92 between employee fulfillment and their relationships with colleagues. Since you can end up spending more time with coworkers than with your family or partner, it is a topic that deserves much attention.

But how can you break the ice without also frustrating your team or making them roll their eyes? Using facilitator-tested and proven methods like those below are a surefire way to open your meetings more effectively and engage your team.

You’ll find classic conversation starters like Two truths and One Lie , fun games like The Marshmallow Challenge or even a Virtual Scavenger Hunt! You’ll find our collection of 61 of the best ice breaker games for work separated by category and find some useful tips for running them in your workshop or meeting too!

Purpose of ice breaker games

So how do you avoid creating a frustrating, patronizing ice breaker game that won’t make participants feel like they are wasting their time?

The benefits of a good ice breaker far outweigh any negatives. They can take care of introductions in a much more fun way than just simply going around the room and stating what’s on your business card. They can help people remember names , start conversations and create a positive atmosphere in moments.

When done right, ice breakers can quickly build a sense of community , set the tone for the upcoming session & give participants ownership of the learning ahead.

Icebreaker games are also a great way for people to share their expectations and for facilitators to introduce the topic of the day. They help participants to loosen up, understand each other more and enable better collaboration and networking . Last, but not least, it is a surefire way to energize the group and have everyone focused and ready to go.

Ready to design a session around your chosen icebreaker? SessionLab makes it easy to build a complete agenda in minutes . Start by dragging and dropping blocks, add your timings and adjust with ease to create a minute-perfect session. When you’re ready for feedback, invite collaborators and refine your agenda with ease.

Ice Breaker Games to Get to Know Each Other

Whenever you bring a group of people together for a meeting, project, or event, it’s helpful to get to know each other at the outset.

This does not only mean just memorizing names, but also involves getting the facilitator or leader of the session familiar with everyone and getting a read on the energy of the room.

One of the other major benefits of these games is in allowing group members to break free from dry or boring introductions and get to know each other more meaningfully. Let’s dive in!

Just One Lie

Diversity bingo.

• Two truths and One Lie

Unique and Shared

Passions tic tac toe.

• Jenga Questions

Speed Dating Icebreaker

Break the ice with the help of your key.

• Whose Story is it?
• Trading Card Icebreaker
• Find Your Pair
• Toilet Paper Icebreaker
• Show and Tell

This method is an adaptation of the well-known ice breaker ‘Two Truths And A Lie’ to create an activity that can be run throughout a day of a meeting or workshop.

Participants mingle and ask questions from each other while noting the answers on post-its. But everyone includes one lie. The result is that you have a board of interesting facts about all the participants, among them, one lie. Throughout the workshop you can return to these boards for participants to introduce each other and find out what was the lie.

Just One Lie   #icebreaker   #energiser   #team   #get-to-know   This method is adapted from the well-known icebreaker ‘Two Truths And A Lie’  to create an activity that you could return to throughout a meeting.

Diversity Bingo is one of our favorite group ice breaker games. This game help participants to get information on each other in a fun, competitive way.

First, create a bingo card containing a grid of squares with a statement or question in each square that will apply to some members of your group and is in line with the objectives of your class, workshop, or event. After each player gets a bingo card, they mingle around introducing themselves and finding other participants who can sign their cards indicating that a statement applies to him/her.

To avoid having people only talk to one or two people and filling up their card, limit the signatures they can give to 1 or 2 per card. When everyone has reached bingo or is super close, you can share something you’ve learned about each other, yourself and the experience of this ice breaker activity.

Diversity Bingo   #icebreaker   #get-to-know   #opening   #teampedia   #action   This game helps participants to get information on each other in a fun, competitive way.

Do you have people who come from many different places to your session? If you’re looking for fun icebreakers for meetings that are active, Group Map is a good bet!

A great way to get to know each other is to have participants place themselves on an imaginary map laid out in the room representing the country according to where they grew up. Ask them to share one internal value they got from that place, and why that is important for them.

Encourage people to share a short story if they want. Sharing customs and values from your childhood can create more understanding and help form stronger bonds – a hallmark of a good icebreaker.

Icebreaker: The Group Map   #get-to-know   #icebreaker   #remote-friendly   Ask people to place themselves on an imaginary map laid out in the room representing the country according to where they grew up. Ask them to share one internal value they got from that place, and why is that important for them. Encourage people to share a short story if they want

​ Two Truths and One Lie

A simple and classic ice breaker game. Each employee shares three statements about themselves – two truths, and one lie. Then, everyone tries to guess which is the lie by asking questions. Try to find out as many details about the statements as possible and watch the speaker’s reactions closely. The whole point is to learn facts about your peers while inserting an element of mystery.

This team icebreaker helps the group learn about each other and gives both introverts and extroverts an equal chance to reveal themselves and discover others’ assumptions. It’s been done before, but if you’re looking for simple ice breaker games for work, this is one everyone is sure to know and requires zero prep from the facilitator.

Everyone is a Liar (Two truths and one lie)   #warm up   #icebreaker   #remote-friendly   #online   Starting a meeting or after a break in a group where participants don’t know each other or don’t know much about each other

Create groups of 4-5 people, and let them discover what they have in common, along with interesting characteristics that are unique to a person in the group.

This icebreaker promotes unity as it gets people to realize that they have more common ground with their peers than they first might realize. As people become aware of their own unique characteristics, they can also help people feel empowered to offer the group something unique.

Common and Unique   #get-to-know   #teambuilding   #icebreaker   Create groups of 4-5 people, and let them discover what they have in common, along with interesting characteristics that are unique to a person in the group.

The goal of this icebreaker game is to help the participants to get to know each other at the beginning of an event or to help identify their values during the later part of a training session.

Create a 3 x 3 grid for each participant and have them fill in each block with a different personal passion randomly. After the individual work, have everyone walk around the room and compare notes. When they find the same passion listed in both grids, ask them to sign for each other in the appropriate square. The winner is the participant who manages to have other people’s signatures on three lines (vertical, horizontal, or diagonal). You can continue the game to have as many winners as you like.

Passions Tic Tac Toe   #get-to-know   #values   #icebreaker   #thiagi   This simple game that explores the concepts from these two quotations: “Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you”. —Oprah Winfrey. “Getting to know someone else involves curiosity about where they have come from, who they are.” —Penelope Lively, novelist

​Jenga questions

Jenga is the starting point of many fun gatherings. It’s a super easy ice breaker activity to explain and pick up & anyone can join any time. You can spice up a regular tower-toppling contest by writing intriguing questions on each block (or as many as you can).

When you draw each block, read the question out loud & answer before placing the piece on the top of the tower. This can ignite exciting conversations about everyday topics like favorite downtime activities to more in-depth stuff, like career and self-development goals.

Traditional games with a unique spin can often generate curiosity and engagement in a groups setting. Try having different kinds of icebreaker activities in your toolbox in order to overcome any potential resistance in your group.

This fast-paced icebreaker activity allows participants to get acquainted with while also exploring something thought provoking and inspiring. Prepare a set of inspirational quotes prior to the session and the number of participants on individual slips of paper. Put the pile in the center of the room. Each participant picks up one quote, then picks a partner and begins to discuss what the quote says to them, if it is meaningful, and how.

Then after a minute or so the facilitator gives a signal and participants switch partners, and may switch quotes as well if they’d like. This can continue for 4-5 rounds for around 15 minutes. Choose quotes that relate to your meeting topic or company culture for an even more effective opening to your session!

Quotes   #icebreaker   #energiser   #online   #warm up   #remote-friendly   For participants to get acquainted with each other in a meaningful way

The goal of this game is to have a succession of very rapid conversations in an extremely short amount of time with as many people as possible. Have people sit in pairs, with colleagues that they don’t directly work with on a day-to-day basis. Determine the time limit (say 3 minutes for each conversation) and set a timer. When it starts, each pair has to start speed networking & find out as much professional info about the other as possible.

While it’s natural for group members to want to spend time with people they know, encouraging your team to mix is an important step to improving team cohesion. Team building icebreakers like this one are great for starting that process!

Speed-dating   #teambuilding   #icebreaker   This can be used as a teambuilding activity or a way to introduce participants to each other.

Games and activities that include physical objects can help ensure the session is memorable and specific to those people present. In this ice breaker, ask participants to sit in a circle and bring their keys with them.

Explain that they will get to know each other through their keys. Ask them that one by one present all the keys they have on their keychain and tell a few sentences about the area the key represents – the city or neighborhood they live in, the activity it represents (bike or locker key) or the person they received it from.

Be sure to start the circle yourself so the participants get the feeling of how it should be done. Bonus points if you can demonstrate openness and vulnerability for your group to follow!

Break the ice with the help of your key!   #team   #get-to-know   #teambuilding   #icebreaker   The key ice breaker is a team building favorite and a great exercise to get to know each other in a group or team. It is easy to understand and set up, can be modified according to the objects participants have, fast way to get info on each other , and surely makes everyone included!

Whose story is it?

Start this ice breaker game by writing your funniest or weirdest story on a small piece of paper. It has to be a true one, no fiction! Then fold the paper up and drop it into a bowl or other container.

The facilitator or the person leading the program randomly reads every story and group members guess who the writer is. This is a great way to get to know each other and find out new things, even if you’ve worked together for a long time.

​Trading Card Icebreaker

Starting a meeting by defining your personality and being creative is a great way to kick off a more involved team project.

This activity from Gamestorming works great because it lets people self-define and share their personality outside of their day-to-day work. This approach means people get to connect more meaningfully and authentically while also creating fun and memorable cards that serve as conversation pieces as the meeting progresses.

Trading Cards   #gamestorming   #icebreaker   #opening   This meeting starter is great because it lets people self-define,  gives them a “personality” outside the typical work environment. Additionally,it gives participants quick snapshots of multiple players (since they see many cards as they’re being passed around), and it creates memorable visuals that give people conversation pieces as the meeting progresses.

​Find your pair

Prepare word pairs, like salt and pepper, milk and honey, sail and wind, etc on separate pieces of paper. Tape one to each person’s back. People then have to walk around and ask closed questions (with a yes or no answer) to find out what their phrase is. Once they find out, they have to find their pair & by continuing to ask questions (these can be open or closed) they have to learn 3 new things about the other.

​Toilet Paper Icebreaker

This is one of those ice breaker activities that is easily prepared in most live settings – you only need one roll of toilet paper. Pass this around, and have everyone rip off how much they would usually use. Everyone will feel awkward & will not really see the point at the beginning & possibly think you’ve lost it.

When everyone has taken off a few squares, they should count them. The amount they have is how many fun facts they should reveal about themselves. A warning though: this is an activity that is best suited for more lighthearted occasions and you’ll want to know your audience a bit before trying this!

​Show and tell

Group icebreakers are important, even in teams that know each other well. For more established groups, where people are more familiar with each other, it’s always good to dedicate a day, or an afternoon for “show and tell”. Each team member gets the chance (not all at once of course) to showcase something – an object or a topic that they are interested in.

Try making this activity part of a group routine at the start of every team meeting for bonus points. Creating this habit gives less exhibitionist characters a chance to share and it is also a great practice to hone presentation skills and handle the attention & tricky questions.

Show and Tell   #gamestorming   #action   #opening   #meeting facilitation   Show and Tell taps into the power of metaphors to reveal players’ underlying assumptions and associations around a topic The aim of the game is to get a deeper understanding of stakeholders’ perspectives on anything—a new project, an organizational restructuring, a shift in the company’s vision or team dynamic.

Quick ice breaker games

When you have a tightly packed agenda, it’s useful to have some quick icebreakers you can use to warm up the group in a pinch. These activities are simple to explain, fast to run, and work great in large or small groups . They also can double as after-lunch energizers to encourage team members to engage in what’s next!

Here are some of our favorite games you can use to break the ice in a group in ten minutes or less! Prefer something that requires even less set-up? Check out our collection of icebreaker questions for a set of effective conversation starters.

One Word at a Time

Apple, orange and banana, conversation questions, diversity welcome, stress balls, object meditation.

• Have you ever? (Stand up if)

Ice breaker ideas can come from anywhere, and so can great ideas. Create a surprise sentence by saying one word at a time. Give a general topic. The first person in the group says one word to a topic. The next person continues with another word.

Eventually, the group creates a whole sentence by each member contributing only one word at a time. The outcome is always unexpected & almost always funny. Make sure people don’t say two words when using articles or pronouns.

One Word Method   #product development   #idea generation   #creativity   #icebreaker   #online   #warm up   Creating a sentence relating to a specific topic or problem with each person contributing one word at a time.

Some of the best quick icebreakers promote team bonding by simply encouraging the group to be silly and have fun. This game is designed to do just that!

Start by asking your group to stand in a circle with their hands on the shoulders of the person in front. Explain that when you shout either apple, orange or banana they must perform the associated action: moving forward, backward or spinning around. When the group is comfortable, mix it up by saying two or even three words in sequence!

This great icebreaker game gets everyone moving, generates lots of laughter, and is a wonderful activity to use after breaks too.

Apple, Orange and Banana!   #energiser   #icebreaker   #fun   #teambuilding   Fun energiser to create energy and fun. Great to use after breaks such as lunch or coffee breaks.

Sometimes the best and fastest icebreakers are also the simplest! Use this collection of 25 icebreaker questions as the basis for letting to group get to know each other, or have participants answer in rapid-fire!

Small groups might wish to mingle and ask questions one on one, while you might invite larger groups to answer questions by raising their hand to answer. Whatever way you go, these icebreaker questions are a great starting point for team bonding and helping participants get to know other group members.

Conversation Questions   #connection   #icebreaker   #trust   #meeting facilitation   #opening  

Quick icebreakers also have the potential to set the right tone for your meeting or workshop. The focus of his activity is to promote diversity and help create an inclusive environment for your session. Start by naming a possible trait of someone who may be present and saying they are welcome. For example, “If you love dogs, you are welcome here! If you prefer cats, you are welcome here!”

Slowly move into deeper territory by naming traits and concepts that resonate with your audience. With established groups, invite participants to share their own welcome, focusing on helping everyone in the room feel safe and welcome.

Diversity welcome   #diversity   #inclusion   #opening   #remote-friendly   #hybrid-friendly   The intention of the diversity welcome is inclusion. It can be long or short. The common element is to inclusively name a range of possibilities with a genuine “Welcome!”

We love games that not only function as a fun introduction but also offer a way to improve company culture. Stress Balls is a fast-paced icebreaker that helps highlight the importance of communication and teamwork while also encouraging lots of fun.

Begin by simply asking participants to stand in a circle and pass a ball to their left. Debrief and ask how the task went before asking participants to try again while moving the ball faster. Introduce further complexity until the game becomes a mess! While the result is chaotic fun, it also offers a very teachable lesson about how teams can communicate in order to achieve great results.

Stress Balls   #energiser   #communication   #teamwork   #team   #thiagi   #action   #icebreaker   Understanding the importance of communication and teamwork is an important requirement for high performance teams of knowledge workers. This exercise is an effective energizer that requires communication and teamwork. Ask participants to form a circle and throw a ball around to simulate the movement of a message. Change different variables such as speed, quantity, and complexity to create a mess.

Just because an icebreaker can be done quickly doesn’t mean it can’t also be mindful! This focused meditation activity is a wonderful way to open a meeting and encourage everyone to be present.

First, have everyone choose an object that is close to them and invite them to close their eyes. Next, ask the group to notice how they feel and to consider any feelings that aren’t serving them right now. Invite them to transfer these feelings into the object they are holding for the duration of the meeting and then come back to the room.

Combined with a quick debrief, this method is a great way to gently break the ice with your group. Check out the full method below for a script you can follow too!

Object Meditation   #icebreaker   #meditation   #emotional intelligence   #managing emotions   #check-in   #self-awareness   A focused meditation to become present and aware. We accept our feelings, leaving behind what we doesn’t serve us right now. A ideal way to open a workshop or team meeting.

Use this ice breaker activity at, or very near, the start of a course, workshop or meeting where people don’t know each other to help get to know everyone’s names. Have the group sit in a circle where everyone can see the others. The first person says their name. The next person continues, but after saying their own name, they repeat the first person’s name. This continues with each person repeating one more name. Reassure people towards the end that it’s ok if they get stuck & encourage the others to jump in to help if anyone is lost.

Name Game   #opening   #icebreaker   #energiser   Use the exercise at, or very near, the start of a course, workshop or meeting where people don’t know each other as it helps to learn names of each other

​Have you ever? (Stand up if)

Prior to the workshop the facilitator prepares a list of questions which can only be answered with yes or no. These questions should begin with “Have you ever…?” or “Stand up if…”. The facilitator reads out the questions or statements one by one. For each statement the participants stand up if they could answer the statement with yes.

The questions should be designed to not be discriminatory, intimidating or insulting. Possible topics can be countries visited, dishes, games or sports tried, movies seen etc. This should be quite familiar to people before they attend the meeting or workshop and is quick and easy to understand – ice breaker ideas don’t need to be brand new to be effective!

Stand up if   #icebreaker   #sharing   #opening   #energiser   #online   #remote-friendly   short, fun, energizing team activity

This is a quick ice breaker game where players have to form an orderly line without any discussion, or any verbal cues or help at all. The line is formed by predetermined criteria (like height, or color of each person’s eyes etc.). and gently asks people to start working together to get themselves into order.

With a more familiar group, try adding more complication to encourage your team to think more deeply. This icebreaker helps develop team collaboration and non-verbal communication, and it’s great when kicking of a training session with lots of talking later!

Line-Up   #hyperisland   #energiser   In the short group challenge, participants must organize themselves in a line according to a certain criteria (like height) without speaking. The activity promotes non-verbal communication and teamwork. Simpler versions of the activity can be used in early stages of group development while more complex versions can be used to challenge more established groups.

Ice Breaker Games for Meetings

Using an ice breaker at the start of a meeting is a great way to encourage group members to be present and get things started on the right foot. Effective opening activities energize everyone, helping them ‘arrive’ mentally and leave behind whatever task or thought they were previously working on.

They can also help clarify the objectives of the meeting and position the group for what’s coming next. While many of the ice breakers in this collection work well for work, we’ve found these ones especially effective. Here are some ice breakers for meetings to help ensure your next team meeting is a success!

Coat of Arms

One word exercise, the real reason why you are here, lego metaphors, weather check-in.

• Rain Icebreaker

Celebrate the wins in your team

Mindfulness icebreaker, purpose mingle.

This game is a great way for players to introduce themselves and their colleagues. It’s especially fun for people who think they already know each other very well – almost every time there are at least a few surprises!

Sometimes these new nuggets of wisdom can have an immediate effect on the employees’ relationships, current projects or challenges. Since you have to draw, rather than explain, it serves double duty for topics like problem-solving, creative thinking and innovation. Fun icebreakers for meetings don’t get much better than this!

Coat of Arms   #teambuilding   #opening   #icebreaker   #team   #get-to-know   #thiagi   Coat of Arms exercise provides a way for participants to introduce themselves and their colleagues, particularly for groups who think they already know each other very well. Almost invariably participants discover something about their colleagues of which they previously had no idea. Occasionally this revelation has an immediate and direct application to another participant’s current project or challenge.Because this activity forces people to use drawings rather than words, it is particularly useful as a dual-purpose introductory exercise in training sessions that deal with such topics as innovation, creativity, and problem-solving.

Pick a phrase that is central to the reason you’ve gathered and have everyone write down or say a word that comes to their mind in relation to it. If you’re leading a meeting about planning an upcoming project, ask participants to share one word that they think describes the goal or the processes that are needed.

Once everyone has shared their phrases, discuss the results. This ice breaker helps explore different viewpoints about a common challenge, before starting the meeting.

When we first arrive in a meeting, we’re often carrying other things with us. The stress of unfinished work, thinking about the evening or just what we’re having for lunch. Encourage your team to be present and think about why they are in your meeting or workshop with this simple ice breaker that helps spark conversation.

Begin by asking the group to state the concious reason for being in the meeting, and then invite them to consider the deeper reasons for being in the session. The surfacing of these deeper reasons for being present can be surprising, but are often useful for the group to discuss while breaking the ice!

The real reason why you are in this workshop   #constellations   #objectives   #icebreaker   #warm up   A deep-dive method to reveal the subconscious reason why you are in a workshop. Facilitator goes first and by doing so invites the other participants to incorporate the

For some meetings, time can be short. Quick but fun icebreaker activities like this one can be an effective way of getting a read of how everyone is doing while still being time efficient.

Begin this ice breaker by asking each member of the group to share how they are feeling & what’s going on for them right now in the language of weather. For example, I’m feeling like it’s mostly sunny skies with a bit of a rain cloud looming or I feel like I’m in the eye of a tornado! I’ve found this game especially useful when working with remote teams, for whom a metaphor can feel like a safe way to share in a group setting.

Weather check in   #opening   #listening and awareness   #self-awareness   #teambuilding   #em   Each person describes how they are feeling as they are weather

Each participant gets a set of few LEGO bricks (identical sets to everyone – a few items, around 5-10 bricks per person will suffice). Everyone builds something that relates to the topic of the meeting.

Afterwards, everyone gets 30 seconds to explain what their building means (e.g ‘My Home’, ‘Interesting Experiment’, ‘The coolest computer ever’) and how it relates to the topic of the meeting. (Optional: the figures/buildings and the metaphors may be used later on to help discussions around the table.) Remember that icebreaker games for work don’t need to sacrifice fun, and some of the best team building icebreakers are creative and allow people to get in touch with their inner child!

LEGO Challenge   #hyperisland   #team   A team-building activity in which groups must work together to build a structure out of LEGO, but each individual has a secret “assignment” which makes the collaborative process more challenging. It emphasizes group communication, leadership dynamics, conflict, cooperation, patience and problem solving strategy.

Rain icebreaker

Encouraging everyone to be present and engaged at the start of your meeting doesn’t need to be complicated. By simply getting everyone in the room participating in the same goal, this icebreaker can quickly help everyone “arrive” in the session.

Start by having everyone in the front of the room rub their hands together vigorously. Row by row, get more people to join in until you reach the back of the room. Next, have the first row switch to clicking their fingers and proceed through the room in the same way. Go back and forth between clicking and rubbing in order to replicate the sound of rain and then invite the group to stop and enjoy a break in the shower.

Rain icebreaker   #icebreaker   #energizer   #collective intelligence   #warm up   This meeting icebreaker is a great energizer to do right before a break or coming back from a break, especially if you have stragglers

An easy icebreaker that will have everyone feeling good before a meeting. Go around a circle and highlight a story – an action, decision or result – that can and should be praised from each team member. Something where they reached beyond their typical responsibilities and excelled.

Have everyone acknowledge and thank each other for surpassing expectations. This is a great mood booster – by lifting each other up, the energy just starts to vibrate in the room. Everyone likes to be recognized. Ice breakers for meetings that give people the chance to celebrate success can be key in setting a great tone for the meeting to come.

The best ice breaker games often have a very clear goal. You can use this method at the beginning of any meeting to set the stage and get people thinking about what they can contribute. It’s a simple way to get started and always gets results!

At the beginning of your session, have people walk around & share with others what they will contribute to that particular session. It’s a great way to enhance engagement & help people set goals and hold themselves accountable. It also makes others aware of everyone’s intent and can help prevent misunderstandings.

Meetings can sometimes become difficult because attendees come in stressing about the topic or are distracted by things outside of the meeting.

In this mindful ice breaker, ask people to take a few moments to “check-in” with themselves and write down their worries, energy levels, and what else is on their mind. After everyone is done, they should rip up their answers and discard them. This helps them identify their state, let go of their worries and have better focus & more empathy towards others.

What are you bringing to the meeting   #teampedia   #opening   #team   #check-in   A good way  to start a meeting/workshop/training to see how participants are feeling, what might be distractions that they are carrying with themselves into the room and how low/high their energy level is.

Fun Ice Breaker Games to Support Team Building

Ice breaker games are not only useful at the beginning of meetings or getting to know new people. They are also a great way to support team building, by creating a positive atmosphere, helping people relax and break down barriers.

Team building icebreakers can also reveal new information about colleagues that otherwise you wouldn’t discover during your everyday routine. Remember that successful teams are often those who’ve gotten to know each other better on a personal level too!

Team icebreakers such as those below are great for enhancing team bonding and empowering everyone in the group to move forward together. Let’s take a look!

Break the Ice with The Four Quadrants Activity

Team jigsaw puzzle game, back to back drawing, scavenger hunt, electric fence icebreaker, low tech social networking.

The Four Quadrants is a fun and creative team icebreaker than can be adapted for any situation. It is super easy to prep for and set up – you only need large sheets of paper (flipcharts or similar) and markers. Have people draw up a 2×2 grid and ask them four questions. They should draw the answers in each quadrant.

Questions can cover topics like current challenges, stressors, defining moments, moments of pride, fears, desired outcome for the current gathering etc. Afterwards they can show each other their drawings and discuss their creations. The exercise is fun, colorful and visual and can be modified to work with any group and/or topic just by changing the questions.

Break the Ice with The Four Quadrants Activity   #team   #icebreaker   #get-to-know   #teambuilding   The Four Quadrants is a tried and true team building activity to break the ice with a group or team. It is EASY to prep for and set up. It can be MODIFIED to work with any group and/or topic (just change the questions). It is FUN, COLORFUL and works every time!

Separate people into teams. Give each a very different jigsaw puzzle (with equal difficulty & number of pieces). Each group has the same amount of time to complete the puzzle.

The secret twist is to switch up a few pieces with the other groups beforehand! Fun icebreakers can help keep a team on their toes and encourage creative thinking – try ice breakers for meetings that include an edge of competitiveness and fun to really liven things up.

The goal is to finish before the others – so they must figure out collectively how to convince other teams to give up pieces they need. This can be through barter, merging or changing teams, donating minutes, etc.

This is a longer game, but one that is worth doing, since it encourages teamwork on several levels – internally and externally too.

Jigsaw Puzzle   #team   #icebreaker   #get-to-know   #teampedia   This game is useful as a side-activity during breaks, as it encourages starting conversations between random people.

Two people should sit facing away from each other. One receives a picture of an object or phrase. Without saying directly what they see, they should describe it to their pair without using words that clearly give it away. Their pair has to draw a specific picture.

The game requires two people to sit facing away from each other, where one team member is given a picture of an object or word. Without specifying directly what it is, the other person must describe the image without using words that clearly give away the image. This is a great team building game to develop verbal communication and is a fun alternative to more traditional icebreaker games.

Back-2-Back Drawing   #communication   #collaboration   #trust   #icebreaker   #teampedia   #action   This is a communication exercise when participants in pairs have to use only verbal communication to help their pair to draw a specific picture. There are several variations of the exercise detailed in the instructions.

Many people have great memories from a childhood scavenger hunt. Recreating this experience to let our the inner child and work as a team is one of our favourite icebreaker games for adults too! Start by creating a list of items that need to be gathered and then split your group into small teams to try and find them all to kick off your scavenger hunt.

Working with a remote or hybrid team? Try the virtual scavenger hunt below! Be sure to put in items that require a wide range of skills and thinking and diverse personalities to be completed successfully. A scavenger hunt is also a great opportunity to mix people into teams who don’t typically work together and bring them together with ice breaker games.

Virtual scavenger hunt   #energiser   #teambuilding   #remote-friendly   A fun team-building energiser that encourages groups to recreate the scavenger hunt experience in a fully remote environment! 

This is a great energiser that requires players to move about as they build an imaginary electric fence. They have to try and cross it without touching it and getting “electrocuted”. The fence can be represented by a rope or a shoe string tied between two objects. It should be about waist high. Players can’t go under it, this is not limbo dancing!

They must also be touching a teammate with at least one hand at all times. This ice breaker activity requires quick brainstorming, problem-solving and negotiating other ideas. Make sure that people who are uncomfortable with physical contact have an option to not participate but still feel involved in the brainstorming part. Inclusive games make for some of the best ice breakers: be sure to bare this in mind when deciding on icebreaker games for work or your next meeting.

The object of this ice breaker game is to introduce event participants to each other by co-creating a mural-sized, visual network of their connections. – great for medium size events where participants come from different organisations. All participants will need a 5×8 index card and access to markers or something similar to draw their avatar. They will also need a substantial wall covered in butcher paper to create the actual network.

Once their avatar is ready, they “upload” themselves by sticking their card to the wall. Then they find the people they know and draw lines to make the connections. This is one of our favourite ice breakers when working with large, multi-discipline groups where connections might not be immediately obvious.

Low-tech Social Network   #gamestorming   #icebreaker   #opening   The object of this game is to introduce event participants to each other by co-creating a mural-sized, visual network of their connections.

Ice Breaker Games for Small Groups

While many of the icebreaker games above can be adapted for any group size, these activities are especially effective when working with groups of less than 15 people.

These small group icebreakers are great at using the extra space to create opportunities for team bonding and deeper sharing between team members. They’re also designed so you’re not left with awkward silences just because you don’t have a massive team taking part!

Interview icebreaker

• Paper telephone

One of the major benefits of small group icebreaker games is space for participants to talk and get to know each other a little more than they would in a group of 20+ people. Interview is a playful way to get team members talking at the start of a session while also introducing the topic of the workshop or meeting.

Start by getting people into pairs. One person begins by being a reporter and then other will be the interviewee. For three minutes, the reporter will interview the other person on a chosen subject and attempt to get as much information as they can before switching roles. Encourage the group to really get into their roles and provide some example questions to guide the group toward the topic of the day.

Interview   #warm up   #icebreaker   #energiser   The interview is a good warm up for every training or workshop session. Playful start in which the participants will start to communicate with and come to know each other, directing the thinking toward the topic of the day. It is usually a very cheerful activity. Az interjú egy jó bemelegítés, jégtörő minden tréninghez vagy workshophoz. Játékos kezdés, amelyben a résztvevők elkezdenek megismerkedni és kommunikálni egymással, miközben a gondolataikat már a nap témája felé irányítjuk.

Spending time in a small group is a great opportunity to get to know people a little more deeply. This game encourages players to share more about themselves than an average icebreaker, and it’s a fun way to kickstart creative thinking too!

Start by assembling a box of interesting objects (photos will do in a pinch!). Next, invite participants to choose an object without overthinking it and then explain who they are, why they chose the object and what they think the connection between the object and the workshop is.

Magic Box   #team   #icebreaker   #get-to-know   #teambuilding   #remote-friendly   Ice breaking at the beginning of the workshop/meeting

Paper Telephone

Paper telephone is a fun icebreaker that encourages creativity and laughter by combining two classic games: telephone and pictionary. Start by handing out a stack of small papers and pens, and invite each team member to write a sentence on the first piece of paper. Players then pass their stack to the next person who must read the sentence and then create a visual representation of that sentence on the next piece of paper in the stack.

Play proceeds around the circle, with players needing to transform back and forth between words and images. Often, by the time you get your original stack back, the sentence has gone on a weird and wonderful transformation!

While you can play paper telephone with larger groups, the more people you add, the longer it takes. Doing this icebreaker in a small group means you have more time to share what people came up with and the journey you all went on together.

Paper Telephone   #teampedia   #icebreaker   #creativity   #team   #action   Paper Telephone is a mix of two methods, “Telephone” and “Pictionary”. It is a creative game aiming to fasten the get-to-know each other phase of the team while having a good time.

The human knot is a fun, physical icebreaker that is best played in groups of 7-16 people. It’s a great way to break the ice while also creating energy and a sense of fun.

Start by getting the group to stand in a circle and ask them to close their eyes. Next, everyone reaches out and links one hand with someone across the circle. Then they link the other hand with another person in the circle. Then, ask everyone to open their eyes and try to untangle the knot they’ve made without breaking the chain!

Human Knot   A physical-participation disentanglement puzzle that helps a group learn how to work together (self-organize) and can be used to illustrate the difference between self-organization and command-control management or simply as a get-to-know-you icebreaker. Standing in a circle, group members reach across to connect hands with different people. The group then tries to unravel the “human knot” by unthreading their bodies without letting go of each other people’s hands. As a management-awareness game to illustrate required change in behavior and leadership on a management level (e.g., illustrate the change from ‘task-oriented’ management towards ‘goal/value-oriented’ management).

Working with small groups creates an opportunity for greater depth. In this icebreaker game, invite team members to draw their life as a map, using common symbols and signs you might find on a map. Stop signs, deer crossings, mountainous areas…the choice of how to illustrate your life story is yours!

Give time after drawing for everyone to share and for others to ask questions. The connections, conversations and shared understandings that come out of this reflective icebreaker can set a wonderful right tone for the work ahead.

Life map   #team   #teampedia   #icebreaker   #get-to-know   With this activity the participants get to know each other on a deeper level.

Ice Breaker Games to Improve Teamwork and Collaboration

Good ice breaker games usually all have a strong aspect of teamwork and collaboration as people work together in groups to accomplish a challenge or solve a puzzle. Therefore these team icebreakers can also be used as part of team building events and team development workshops. They are meant to fast-track group familiarity and increase the socialization process in a new or existing environment.

With increased social interaction, people naturally learn how to work together more productively – the mood can warm up between colleagues who are normally highly formal with each other. The best ice breakers have the power to strengthen coworker bonds, stimulate better brainstorming sessions, and create an atmosphere of inclusivity.

Here, we’ve collected ice breaker activities to help improve teamwork and collaboration in a more involved manner.

The Marshmallow Challenge

Helium stick, blind square – the perfect square, desert island.

In eighteen minutes, teams must build the tallest free-standing structure out of 20 sticks of spaghetti, one yard of tape, one yard of string, and one marshmallow. To complete the marshmallow challenge, the marshmallow needs to be on top and hopefully, not fall off! This icebreaker game emphasizes group communication, leadership dynamics, collaboration, innovation and problem solving strategy.

Genuinely fun icebreakers for meetings can be hard to find – The Marshmallow Challenge is one of those icebreaker games for work that feels almost like play. The Marshmallow Challenge was developed by Tom Wujec, who has done the activity with hundreds of groups around the world. Definitely give it a try.

Marshmallow challenge with debriefing   #teamwork   #team   #leadership   #collaboration   In eighteen minutes, teams must build the tallest free-standing structure out of 20 sticks of spaghetti, one yard of tape, one yard of string, and one marshmallow. The marshmallow needs to be on top. The Marshmallow Challenge was developed by Tom Wujec, who has done the activity with hundreds of groups around the world. Visit the Marshmallow Challenge website for more information. This version has an extra debriefing question added with sample questions focusing on roles within the team.

This fun activity could be used as an icebreaker both for people who have just met and for already existing teams. Breaking people up into groups, each one needs a fresh egg, some straws, masking tape and other items for creating a package to protect the egg.

Using the raw materials provided, the team goal is to build a structure that will support a free-falling egg dropped from a predetermined height (e.g. 7 feet) without the egg breaking. Get to know you games with an element of danger are always fun ice breakers for meetings. This is a method that fosters team communication, collaboration and strategic thinking as well.

Egg drop   #teampedia   #collaboration   #teamwork   #icebreaker   #team   This fun activity could be used as an icebreaker for people who have just met but it can be framed as a method that shows and fosters team communication, collaboration and strategic thinking as well.

Solving seemingly simple problems as a group to get everyone working together at the start of a workshop. This game requires one long, thin, light rod (e.g. a broom handle) and a bunch of curious participants!

First, line up people in two rows facing each other. Introduce the Helium Stick and ask participants to hold their index fingers out. Lay the Stick on their fingers & before letting go, have everyone adjust their position so the Stick is horizontal and everyone is touching it. The goal is to lower the Stick to the ground in a way that no one lets go of it at any time.

Pinching, grabbing, or holding on properly to the Stick is not allowed. If the group makes a mistake, they start from the beginning. Helium Stick is a fun icebreaker that asks participants to really engage with one another and we’d recommend it for any team building workshop!

Helium Stick   #teampedia   #team   #teamwork   #icebreaker   #energiser   A great and simple activity for fostering teamwork and problem solving with no setup beforehand.

Blindfold your seated participants. Take a long string or rope with the ends tied together & place it in everyone’s hands. Leave the circle and ask them to form a perfect square from the rope without looking.

When people think they are finished, they can remove their blindfolds to see the result. Ice breakers for meetings don’t always include props or blindfolds, but deploying them effectively can make for a memorable ice breaker.

Blind Square is one of the icebreaker games you can use to highlight leadership and communication – some people will want to take charge, while others are more comfortable following direction. Also, it can be repeated after the first try to see if they can improve their collaboration.

Blind Square – Rope game   #teamwork   #communication   #teambuilding   #team   #energiser   #thiagi   #outdoor   This is an activity that I use in almost every teambuilding session I run–because it delivers results every time. I can take no credit for its invention since it has existed from long before my time, in various forms and with a variety of names (such as Blind Polygon). The activity can be frontloaded to focus on particular issues by changing a few parameters or altering the instructions.

Many of us will have played some variation of this ice breaker game before. This game asks you team: if you were trapped on a desert island, what would you use to survive?

Introduce participants to a list of possible items and have them choose the three they find most essential. Then, they’ll share the items they chose with the rest of the group. This activity works well with a remote team and with larger groups, you may want to separate people into smaller teams where they collaboratively strategize on which items to pick.

The Desert Island   #relationships   #icebreaker   #teamwork   #remote-friendly   Many of us have played a game similar to this before – if you were stranded on a desert island, what essential items would you choose to survive? Participants are given a list of items to choose from and must work together to decide which items will help them stay alive. A great, remote-friendly exercise for a team to work together and share opinions.

Fun Ice Breaker Games

The best ice breakers have the power to strengthen coworker bonds, stimulate better brainstorming sessions, and create an atmosphere of inclusivity.

They’re also incredibly fun to play, making them a welcomed break from regular work activities. They break down barriers that might exist between employees & make it easier for people to communicate with one another.

Ice breakers should also encourage lighthearted interactions that wouldn’t usually take place in the context of a normal workday. When the correct game is chosen, everyone benefits from the energy they bring to any meeting or event. Remember that even some business-critical meetings can benefit from a bit of levity and fun!

Here are some ice breaker ideas for when you just want to have fun with your team.

Portrait Gallery

• What is my name

Rock Paper Scissors Tournament

Crazy handshake, the movie pitch icebreaker, share a joke, the no smiling icebreaker, hello kitty.

This ice breaker activity is a fun one that requires some creativity. It enhances a sense of community because people have to draw the others as a group – not just between the drawers, but the recipients of the portraits too. The outcome is very visual and colorful and the result images can be put up in the meeting room afterward! Meeting ice breakers that produce physical results that can be shared can really help ensure the good vibes of the meeting continue afterward!

Portrait Gallery   #hyperisland   #team   #icebreaker   The Portrait Gallery is an energetic and fun icebreaker game that gets participants interacting by having the group collaboratively draw portraits of each member. The activity builds a sense of group because it results with each participant having a portrait drawn of him/herself by the other members of the group together. It also has a very colourful visual outcome: the set of portraits which can be posted in the space.

​What is my name

Stick the name of a well-known celebrity or public figure on people’s backs. Have players mingle and ask each other questions to find out who they are. This is a light game that initiates easy conversations without forced & awkward small talk. Make sure the figures are generally well recognizable. What is my name is one of those icebreaker games for work that is easy to set up and get going and is fun for all involved.

This is a warm-up to really get a group energized. It is a game based on the traditional Rock Paper Scissors game but with a twist. The people who lost become fans and have to cheer for the players still in the game. The final is cheered on by a large crowd & the excitement is through the roof! If there are a larger number of people, you can have multiple tournaments. Fun icebreakers don’t need to be complicated. Keep your ice breaker simple and ensure everyone can get involved easily.

Rock, Paper, Scissors (Tournament)   #energiser   #warm up   #remote-friendly   This is a fun and loud energiser based on the well-known “Rock, Paper, Scissor” game – with a twist: the losing players become the fan of the winners as the winner advances to the next round. This goes on until a final showdown with two large cheering crowds! It can be played with adults of all levels as well as kids and it always works! 

Set up harmless obstacles in the room you’re meeting in. Use squeaky toys, whoopie cushions, bubble wrap and the like. Everyone takes turns going around the course while blindfolded, guided by their teammates. The goal is: help each to navigate through the minefield.

While this game often results in lots of laughter, it also helps teach the importance of clear communication and trusting your team.

Minefield   #teampedia   #teamwork   #action   #team   #icebreaker   A fun activity that helps participants working together as a team while teaching the importance of communication, strategy and trust.

This ice breaker helps people ease into a group and brings out their creativity without a lot of effort. Splitting the group into pairs, each pair develops a creative handshake. Once done, the pair splits and each individual partners with another group member. The newly formed pair then teaches each other the original handshakes and together creates a new one. You can break up and pair off people as many times as you want.

Crazy Handshake   #icebreaker   #get-to-know   #opening   #teampedia   #team   This activity helps people ease in a group and brings out their creativity without a lot of effort.

Divide players into several groups and have each team come up with an idea for a movie they want to make. They should prepare a pitch within 10 minutes. Once everyone had a chance to tell their idea, all players vote on which idea deserves ‘funding’.

The winners won’t start to make their film, but they should get awarded with either a funny object or some treats. We love using creative icebreakers like to ease people in and get used to collaborating and giving feedback ahead of the main discussion.

For this game, you have to have quick reactions or you’ll be eliminated. Have everyone stand in a circle with one person in the middle as the ‘sheriff’. They must surprise other players by pointing to them. These people must quickly crouch and those on either side of them have to quickly ‘draw’ their weapons. If you are too slow, you switch places & become the sheriff.

This icebreaker is a wonderful way to increase group energy before starting a meeting in earnest, and it also helps people learn names too! If you’re working with an especially large group, note that it’s better to play in parallel before finishing with a final showdown!

Bang   #hyperisland   #energiser   Bang is a group game, played in a circle, where participants must react quickly or face elimination. One person stands in the middle of the circle as “the sheriff”, pointing at other players who must quickly crouch while those on either side of them quickly “draw”. A good activity to generate laughter in a group. It can also help with name-learning for groups getting to know each other.

Have new teammates tell a joke at their first all-hands meeting. This is a great way to encourage people to be vulnerable and also ensures the meetings start on a cheery note. Remember that opening activities needn’t be complicated to be effective and when looking for ice breaker ideas, don’t discount the simple joy of making others laugh!

This is a simple icebreaker activity that energizes participants, and it’s also suitable for highlighting spontaneity and teamwork. The activity involves participants standing in a circle and throwing imaginary ball(s) to each other in increasing pace. When throwing the first ball, the person starting should make a special sound that has to be repeated by the catcher upon receiving the ball.

Once the ball is being thrown around at a fairly brisk pace, you can introduce another imaginary ball and start throwing it. When the group gets proficient at it, you can have three or four balls in play!

Sound Ball   #energiser   #icebreaker   #thiagi   #team   #outdoor   This a simple icebreaker activity energising participants, also suitable for debriefing learning points towards spontaneity and teamwork. The activity involves participants standing in a circle and throwing imaginary ball(s) to each other in increasing pace.

This is a seemingly contradictory ice breaker that actually results in lots of smiles. Instruct everyone to keep a straight face and do not smile under ANY circumstance in the first five minutes of the meeting. People turn into children with an instruction like this, and immediately start looking at others, seeing how they are coping. The anticipation makes everyone giggly, so after a while they cannot suppress their laughter anymore. This activity takes zero prep and so is a great one to pull out at the last minute!

Starting a meeting with smiles and laughter is a great way to set the tone for the session. In this fun icebreaker, separate your group into teams of kittens and puppiess. Puppies try to make the kittens laugh or crack a smile by simply saying, “Hello Kitty” in an amusing manner. Any kittens who smile or laugh join the puppies until their is only one kitten left standing!

Encourage the group to be creative and be sure to give kudos to the funniest participants or those who manage to keep a straight face!

Hello Kitty   #hyperisland   #energiser   #remote-friendly   A simple and short group game all about trying to make each other crack a smile. Participants take turns being ‘kitties’ and ‘puppies’. The puppies try to make the kitties crack a smile or laugh. The last kitty standing is the winner! An original from The Northern Quarter Agency.

From icebreaker to completed agenda

Now you’ve discovered the perfect icebreaker, it’s time to create the rest of your meeting!

With SessionLab, you drag, drop and reorder blocks to create your agenda in a snap. Your session timing adjusts automatically as you make changes and when you’re done, you can share a beautiful printout with your colleagues and participants.

Explore how facilitators use SessionLab to build effective workshops and meetings or watch this five minute video to get started!

Now over to you!

Your meetings and workshops don’t have to be boring. We hope you have found some useful tips for practical and fun ice breaker games you can use in your next session!

What are your favorite ice breaker activities? Have you tried any of the methods above? How did you find them? Let us know about your experiences in the comments. Want to see even more great icebreaker ideas? Our collection of icebreaker questions contains heaps of conversation starters you can bring to your next session.

Want to go further? Check out our guide to planning an effective workshop to start building more engaging sessions with better outcomes!

20 Comments

tHIS was a life saver. I forgot that I had to present a game (or what-ever) for a Red Hat meeting tomorrow. You SAVED THE DAY, so to speak….so many, many thanks. frankanz

That’s fantastic to hear, I’m so happy we could help you – thanks for sharing your story :-)

Thanks for this list! some great finds in here (I LOVE the portrait gallery!) – have saved 10 faves and will definitely us the passions tic-tac-toe and rock paper scissors tournament at next workshop :D

That’s awesome to hear, I’m happy you got some useful ideas! (The portrait gallery is one of my favourite tools, too :-)

Great list! Here are some of the icebreakers I use: 1- Batikha (Watermelon in Arabic) The group sits or stands in a circular form. One person starts by placing their palms on their mouth as if they are holding a ball (watermolon) and passing it to the person on their side (if they pass it to the person on their right, they must use their left hand pointing to the right direction), the next person carries on with this rhythm. At any point anyone could decide to reverse the path of the ball by changing their hand and the pointing to the other person. This is when it gets tricky because if anyone else -other than the person pointed to) takes an action by raising their hands they get out of the circle. Additional if someone points the ball upwards, it means the next person will be skipped and the following person should complete the cycle. I don’t know if it makes sense in writing, it’s very simple through :) 2- Say what? This games involves a person (usually the trainer) asking each one individually a series of questions. The person who answers must answer truthfully without saying ‘yes’ or ‘no’ or make any gestures or sounds that means yes or no. They also can’t think for more than three seconds and they cannot repeat what the trainer asked. The trainer must get tricky by asking follow-up questions like: What’s your favorite book? answer… But isn’t out of publish? The participant will probably say no and lose.

Thank you, Nahla, great to see your favourite ice breaker activities, too – thanks for sharing!

This is an Awesome with great fun usable ideas!!

You’re welcome, Joshua – great to see that you’ve found the post useful!

Board/card games teach important social skills, such as communicating verbally, sharing, waiting, and taking turns. It can also foster the ability to focus and lengthen one’s attention span by encouraging the completion of an exciting, enjoyable game. Check this newly found card gamehttps://lagimcardgame.com/ and see how interesting and creative it is.

These are some amazing ideas! Thank you

These are all so good! You usually can’t find so many good ideas in one place. Thanks so much!

Excellent list and love the card format of the activity. Thanks. For Icebreaker questions I use icebreakrs.io.

Thank you very much! Very useful!

thank you very much very useful

This will help each other in the team professionally and personally , we can share ideas and solve problems .Awesome!!

Thank you for this great collection of wonderful and fun icebreakers and activities. Here’s a favorite icebreaker called Paris, Rome, or New York.

Objectives: To get participants to share their opinions, encourage listening, and promote better discussion in the group.

Method: This is a very simple exercise that participants can also have some fun with.

Ask participants of the training event to imagine themselves in each of the cities above. And, what they would like to do there? What would they work at? Would their life be different? If so, in what ways?

Once each person has described who they would like to get the group in a circle to discuss the exercise.

This exercise also encourages questioning and listening skills within the group and individuals’ perceptions of different things.

Discussion Questions: Did anyone feel uncomfortable doing this exercise? If so, why? How can this exercise help us during today’s training event? Of all the places presented does anyone want to change? If so why or why not?

Great ideas and will use this week at our yearly NHS Nurse away day. Thank You

These are some great ideas. I do both online and face-to-face education, so the variations are really nice. I also do an exercise called, “How did I get here?” Everyone takes a sheet of chart paper and some markers and writes or draws (or both) how they got to where they are and what led them to the course. I give them 10 minutes and then we share as a group. If too many to share in a large group, create several smaller groups and they share to that group. You can get some really interesting responses.

Dear Robert Cserti, My gratitude to you….Thank you so much .Iam using these games as ice breakers ,related to many topics and also in out bound training. Sharing the knowledge ..that’s amazing and tells that u lead by example. Great work!!!! with regards Anu Shakthi :-)

Many times link with ice breakers are disappointing. This was packed full of easy to use, possible to tweak. And amazing ideas!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Going from a mere idea to a workshop that delivers results for your clients can feel like a daunting task. In this piece, we will shine a light on all the work behind the scenes and help you learn how to plan a workshop from start to finish. On a good day, facilitation can feel like effortless magic, but that is mostly the result of backstage work, foresight, and a lot of careful planning. Read on to learn a step-by-step approach to breaking the process of planning a workshop into small, manageable chunks.  The flow starts with the first meeting with a client to define the purposes of a workshop.…

How does learning work? A clever 9-year-old once told me: “I know I am learning something new when I am surprised.” The science of adult learning tells us that, in order to learn new skills (which, unsurprisingly, is harder for adults to do than kids) grown-ups need to first get into a specific headspace.  In a business, this approach is often employed in a training session where employees learn new skills or work on professional development. But how do you ensure your training is effective? In this guide, we'll explore how to create an effective training session plan and run engaging training sessions. As team leader, project manager, or consultant,…

Effective online tools are a necessity for smooth and engaging virtual workshops and meetings. But how do you choose the right ones? Do you sometimes feel that the good old pen and paper or MS Office toolkit and email leaves you struggling to stay on top of managing and delivering your workshop? Fortunately, there are plenty of online tools to make your life easier when you need to facilitate a meeting and lead workshops. In this post, we’ll share our favorite online tools you can use to make your job as a facilitator easier. In fact, there are plenty of free online workshop tools and meeting facilitation software you can…

Design your next workshop with SessionLab

Join the 150,000 facilitators using SessionLab

Sign up for free

• Professional Services
• Creative & Design
• See all teams
• Project Management
• Workflow Management
• Task Management
• Resource Management
• See all use cases

Apps & Integrations

• Microsoft Teams
• See all integrations

Explore Wrike

• Book a Demo
• Take a Product Tour
• Start With Templates
• Customer Stories
• ROI Calculator
• Find a Reseller
• Mobile & Desktop Apps
• Cross-Tagging
• Kanban Boards
• Project Resource Planning
• Gantt Charts
• Custom Item Types
• Dynamic Request Forms
• Integrations
• See all features

Learn and connect

• Resource Hub
• Educational Guides

Become Wrike Pro

• Submit A Ticket
• Help Center
• Premium Support
• Community Topics
• Training Courses
• Facilitated Services
• Collaboration

Top 15 Problem-Solving Activities for Your Team to Master

May 27, 2022 - 10 min read

Some people see problems as roadblocks, others see them as opportunities! Problem-solving activities are a great way to get to know how members of your team work, both individually and together. It’s important to teach your team strategies to help them quickly overcome obstacles in the way of achieving project goals.

In this article, you’ll explore 15 problem-solving activities designed to enhance collaboration and creativity. Additionally, if you want to discuss the insights and outcomes with your team after the activities, you can use Wrike’s actionable meeting notes template. This template allows you to record meeting discussions, assign action items, and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

The importance of problem-solving skills in today’s workplace

According to a 2019  report by McKinsey , soft skills are increasingly important in today's world — and problem-solving is the top area in which skills are lacking. A company or team’s success weighs heavily on the willingness of managers to help employees improve their problem-solving abilities. Team building activities targeting focus areas like communication and collaboration, adaptability, or strengthening decision-making techniques help.

All problem-solving processes start with identifying the problem. Next, the team must assess potential courses of action and choose the best way to tackle the problem. This requires a deep understanding of your team and its core strengths. A problem-solving exercise or game helps identify those strengths and builds problem-solving skills and strategies while having fun with your team.

Problem-solving games aren't for just any team. Participants must have an open mind and accept all ideas and solutions . They must also have an Agile mindset and embrace different structures, planning, and processes. Problems usually arise when we least expect them, so there's no better way to prepare than to encourage agility and flexibility.

Another aspect to keep in mind when engaging in problem-solving games and activities: There are no winners or losers. Sure, some games might end with a single winner, but the true goal of these exercises is to learn how to work together as a team to develop an Agile mindset. The winning team of each game should share their strategies and thought processes at the end of the exercise to help everyone learn.

Here’s a list of fun problem-solving activity examples to try with your team. From blindfolds to raw eggs, these problem-solving, team-building activities will have your team solving problems faster than Scooby and the gang.

Classic team-building, problem-solving activities

1. a shrinking vessel.

Helps with: Adaptability

Why adaptability is important for problem-solving: Adaptability is highly associated with cognitive diversity, which helps teams solve problems faster , according to the Harvard Business Review. Innovation and disruption are happening faster than ever before . People, teams, and organizations that can adapt will come out on top.

What you’ll need:

• A rope or string

Instructions:

1. Using the rope, make a shape on the floor everyone can fit into.

2. Slowly shrink the space over 10-15 minutes.

3. Work together to figure out how to keep everyone within the shrinking boundaries.

2. Marshmallow Spaghetti Tower

Helps with: Collaboration

Why collaboration is important for problem-solving: “Collectively, we can be more insightful, more intelligent than we can possibly be individually,” writes Peter Senge in The Fifth Discipline . We can solve problems better as a team than we can alone, which means developing your team’s collaboration skills will lead to better problem-solving outcomes.

What you’ll need (per team):

• 20 sticks of uncooked spaghetti
• 1 roll of masking tape
• 1 yard of string
• 1 marshmallow

1. The goal of this exercise is to see which team can use the materials provided to build the tallest tower within an allotted time period. The tower must be able to stand on its own.

2. To make this exercise more challenging, try adding a marshmallow to the top of the tower. This team problem-solving exercise helps people think on their toes while building camaraderie and leadership.

3. Egg Drop

Helps with: Collaboration, decision-making

Why decision-making is important for problem-solving: Making decisions isn’t easy , but indecision leads to team paralysis, stagnant thinking, and unsolved problems. Decision-making activities help your team practice making quick, effective choices. Train your team’s decision-making muscles and they will become more adept at problem-solving.

• A carton of eggs
• Basic construction materials such as newspapers, straws, tape, plastic wrap, balloons, rubber bands, popsicle sticks, etc., tarp, or drop cloth
• A parking lot, or some other place you don’t mind getting messy!

1. Each team gets an egg and must select from the construction materials.

2. Give everyone 20-30 minutes to construct a carrier for the egg and protect it from breaking.

3. Drop each egg carrier off a ledge (i.e. over a balcony) and see whose carrier protects the egg from breaking.

4. If multiple eggs survive, keep increasing the height until only one egg is left.

4. Stranded

Helps with: Communication, decision-making

Why communication is important for problem-solving: More employees work remotely than ever before. Good communication skills are vital to solving problems across  virtual teams . Working on communication skills while your team is together will help them solve problems more effectively when they’re apart.

Here's the setting: Your team has been stranded in the office. The doors are locked, and knocking down the doors or breaking the windows is not an option. Give your team 30 minutes to decide on ten items in the office they need for survival and rank them in order of importance. The goal of the game is to have everyone agree on the ten items and their rankings in 30 minutes.

Creative problem-solving activities

Helps with: Communication

What you'll need:

1. Divide everyone into small teams of two or more.

2. Select an overseer who isn't on a team to build a random structure using Lego building blocks within ten minutes.

3. The other teams must replicate the structure exactly (including size and color) within 15 minutes. However, only one member from each group may look at the original structure. They must figure out how to communicate the size, color, and shape of the original structure to their team.

4. If this is too easy, add a rule that the member who can see the original structure can't touch the new structure.

• A lockable room
• 5-10 puzzles or clues (depending on how much time you want to spend on the game)

1. The goal of this exercise is to solve the clues, find the key, and escape a locked room within the time allotted.

2. Hide the key and a list of clues around the room.

3. Gather the team into the empty room and "lock" the door.

4. Give them 30 minutes to an hour to find the key using the clues hidden around the room.

7. Frostbite

Helps with: Decision-making, adaptability

• A blindfold
• 1 packet of construction materials (such as card stock, toothpicks, rubber bands, and sticky notes) for each team
• An electric fan

Instructions:  Your employees are Arctic explorers adventuring across an icy tundra! Separate them into teams of four or five and have them select a leader to guide their exploration. Each team must build a shelter from the materials provided before the storm hits in 30 minutes. However, both the team leader’s hands have frostbite, so they can’t physically help construct the shelter, and the rest of the team has snow blindness and is unable to see. When the 30 minutes is up, turn on the fan and see which shelter can withstand the high winds of the storm.

8. Minefield

• An empty room or hallway
• A collection of common office items

1. Place the items (boxes, chairs, water bottles, bags, etc.) around the room so there's no clear path from one end of the room to the other.

2. Divide your team into pairs and blindfold one person on the team.

3. The other must verbally guide that person from one end of the room to the other, avoiding the "mines."

4. The partner who is not blindfolded can't touch the other.

5. If you want to make the activity more challenging, have all the pairs go simultaneously so teams must find ways to strategically communicate with each other.

9. Blind Formations

1. Have the group put on blindfolds and form a large circle.

2. Tie two ends of a rope together and lay it in a circle in the middle of the group, close enough so each person can reach down and touch it.

3. Instruct the group to communicate to create a shape with the rope — a square, triangle, rectangle, etc.

4. If you have a very large group, divide them into teams and provide a rope for each team. Let them compete to see who forms a particular shape quickest.

Quick and easy problem-solving activities

10. line up blind.

1. Blindfold everyone and whisper a number to each person, beginning with one.

2. Tell them to line up in numerical order without talking.

3. Instead of giving them a number, you could also have them line up numerically by height, age, birthday, etc.

11. Reverse Pyramid

Helps with: Adaptability, collaboration

1. Have everyone stand in a pyramid shape, horizontally.

2. Ask them to flip the base and the apex of the pyramid moving only three people.

3. This quick exercise works best when smaller groups compete to see who can reverse the pyramid the fastest.

12. Move It!

• Chalk, rope, tape, or paper (something to mark a space)

1. Divide your group into two teams and line them up front to back, facing each other.

2. Using the chalk, tape, rope, or paper (depending on the playing surface), mark a square space for each person to stand on. Leave one extra empty space between the two facing rows.

3. The goal is for the two facing lines of players to switch places.

4. Place these restrictions on movement:

• Only one person may move at a time.
• A person may not move around anyone facing the same direction.
• No one may not move backward.
• A person may not move around more than one person on the other team at a time.

13. Human Knot

1. Have everyone stand in a circle, and ask each person to hold hands with two people who aren’t directly next to them.

2. When everyone is tangled together, ask them to untangle the knot and form a perfect circle — without letting go of anyone's hand.

Our last two problem-solving activities work best when dealing with an actual problem:

14. Dumbest Idea First

Helps with: Instant problem-solving

1. "Dumb" ideas are sometimes the best ideas. Ask everyone to think of the absolute dumbest possible solution to the problem at hand.

2. After you have a long list, look through it and see which ones might not be as dumb as you think.

3. Brainstorm your solutions in Wrike. It's free and everyone can start collaborating instantly!

15. What Would X Do

1. Have everyone pretend they're someone famous.

2. Each person must approach the problem as if they were their chosen famous person. What options would they consider? How would they handle it?

3. This allows everyone to consider solutions they might not have thought of originally.

Looking for more team-building and virtual meeting games? Check out these virtual icebreaker games or our  Ultimate Guide to Team Building Activities that Don't Suck.

Additional resources on problem-solving activities

• Problem-Solving Model : Looking for a model to provide a problem-solving structure? This detailed guide gives you the tools to quickly solve any problem.
• The Simplex Process:  Popularized by Min Basadur's book, The Power of Innovation , the Simplex Process provides training and techniques for each problem-solving stage. It helps frame problem-solving as a continuous cycle, rather than a “one and done” process.
• Fun Problem-Solving Activities and Games : Looking for more ideas? Check out this list of interesting and creative problem-solving activities for adults and kids!
• The Secret to Better Problem-Solving:  This article provides tips, use cases, and fresh examples to help you become a whiz at solving the toughest problems.

How to organize problem-solving activities with Wrike

If you want to make problem-solving activities more effective, consider using team collaboration software such as Wrike. 

Wrike’s pre-built actionable meeting notes template helps you keep track of meeting discussions, assign action items, and keep everyone in the loop. It’s an effective tool to streamline your problem-solving sessions and turn insights into real projects.

Brianna Hansen

Brianna is a former Content Marketing Manager of Wrike. When she’s not writing about collaboration and team building games, you’ll find her in the kitchen testing out the latest recipes, sharing her favorite wine with friends, or playing with her two cats.

Related articles

7 Teamwork Terrors and How to Conquer Them

Since the dawn of man, teamwork and cooperation has been the preferred method of getting things done. From the pyramids of Giza to the Golden Gate Bridge, we rely heavily on teams of engineers and architects to create such majestic masterpieces. However, where there is teamwork, there is work required to be a team. Too many voices and conflicting opinions can lead to a giant headache and bring productivity to a grinding halt. Throw in egos, politics, and laziness and you've got a recipe for disaster. Here are 7 barriers that harm the harmony of your team: 1. Anchoring Have you ever been part of a group brainstorming session where, once two or three ideas have been shared, new ideas stop flowing and the group sort of shuts down? That’s anchoring. Teams get mentally stuck on the first few ideas and stop thinking of new solutions. Avoid the anchoring trap with these 7 brainstorming tricks, including brain writing. Be sure to keep all types of workers in mind with team building exercises for remote workers, so everyone feels included in the creative conversation. 2. Groupthink This teamwork barrier occurs when a majority of the group conforms to one idea despite their own concerns and insights, perhaps due to laziness, fear of judgement, time limitations, or being subjected to peer pressure from other members of the group. Because this is another common brainstorming risk, techniques like Stepladder and Round Robin brainstorming encourage everyone in the group to share their thoughts before settling on a course of action. 3. Social Loafing "If I don't get around to it, then someone on my team will just do it for me." If you've said this to yourself, then you're guilty of social loafing. Don't pat your lazy self on the back quite yet, you might have just cost your team some valuable productivity! Social loafing is the act of putting in less effort for a team project than you would for a solo task. This forces other team members to pick up the slack and possibility grow to resent you. One way to avoid this is by breaking a project into individual tasks and holding each team member accountable for certain steps. See how Wrike can help you assign tasks and delegate big projects. 4. Unresolvable Conflict Even the most successful teams sometimes experience conflict due to differences in opinion, perspectives, and experiences. However, if there is no way to resolve the conflict, then conflict harms your project's outcome. Unresolvable conflict can be caused by unclear goals and expectations for the project at hand, so avoid it by clearly communicating goals with the team and helping everyone understand their role. 5. Confirmation Bias Confirmation bias is the tendency to only accept information or evidence that confirms your own preconceptions. This bias can quickly become a roadblock when trying to iron out team conflict or justify a decision, and it can potentially lead to the Halo/Horn Effect (see below) and compromise good decision-making. To ward off this bias, challenge your beliefs and play devil's advocate. The Six Thinking Hats technique can also help you see a different perspective on the issue. 6. Halo/Horn Effect The way you perceive an individual strongly affects how you interact with them. If they made a poor first impression, or an offhand comment rubbed you the wrong way, you may have a subconscious bias against them. When that individual voices an opinion, you might automatically be more critical than you normally would. This can work to the opposite effect too. When someone you like shares their opinion, you might have a tendency to agree. When making big team decisions, try to be aware of this bias and focus on the best outcome for the team. 7. Overconfidence Effect Your perceptions and experiences inevitably shape who you are — but they can also lead to subtle mental biases that result in flawed decision making. The Overconfidence Effect happens when you accept or reject an idea based purely off a hunch with no evidence to back you up. (In fact, studies show that entrepreneurs are more likely to fall for this mental fallacy, rejecting others' ideas because of the false belief that they know what's best.) Don't fall for this mental trap! Always research new information and seek objective evidence to combat confirmation bias (and hopefully learn something new as well). What other teamwork barriers have you experienced? We'd love to hear how you resolved your teamwork troubles in the comments!

13 Awesome Team-Building Games (Infographic)

Whether you want to do new hire orientation icebreakers or just bond your team closer together, check out our list of awesome team building games that you and your team will want to play over and over again.

6 Different Team Effectiveness Models to Understand Your Team Better

Understanding these 6 team effectiveness models can help you figure out which model to adopt for your own team. Or it may simply help shed light into what's working in your own group, and how to help improve what's lacking.

Get weekly updates in your inbox!

You are now subscribed to wrike news and updates.

Let us know what marketing emails you are interested in by updating your email preferences here .

Sorry, this content is unavailable due to your privacy settings. To view this content, click the “Cookie Preferences” button and accept Advertising Cookies there.

Work Life is Atlassian’s flagship publication dedicated to unleashing the potential of every team through real-life advice, inspiring stories, and thoughtful perspectives from leaders around the world.

Contributing Writer

Work Futurist

Senior Quantitative Researcher, People Insights

Principal Writer

7 icebreaker games to help your team build authentic connections

These deceptively simple exercises can build the framework for psychological safety.

Get stories like this in your inbox

5-second summary

• Strong team cohesion – how bonded people feel to one another – is a key element for success in distributed teams.
• Icebreakers can be an effective way to help teams get to know each other and feel more comfortable collaborating.

“Icebreakers.” The very name elicits a frosty reception in many workplaces. The concept – short, simple games to prime our brains for planning and problem-solving – is often discounted or completely overlooked by managers. But there’s evidence that the benefits of icebreakers make them more than worth the time.

“Icebreakers, particularly within the remote workspace, are an incredibly good idea,” says Eugene Chung, an Atlassian team coach and advisor on Team Playbook . “Any time you’re collaborating with colleagues, a few short minutes spent on carefully chosen activities beforehand can seriously help you. Not just in terms of feeling more connected by learning new things about each other, but also in terms of getting comfortable with speaking up and actively contributing to the group.”  

That last point is crucial, particularly when the activity precedes a problem-solving or brainstorming meeting. Icebreakers foster what workplace experts call psychological safety In other words, they create an atmosphere in which colleagues feel free to speak up, question, contribute, and criticize – without fear of censure. 

The trick – as any hungry polar bear would tell you – is to break the ice in the correct fashion. 

How to choose the right icebreakers for virtual or in-person teams

One common mistake is assuming that every icebreaker serves the same purpose. On the contrary, there are many types and styles of icebreaker, each geared towards particular groups and outcomes. It’s smarter to think of them like a set of golf clubs, with each designed for certain scenarios.

To tee off, there are “introductory icebreakers,” where the participants are strangers at the start of the session, and the “ice” is simply the fact that they don’t know each other yet. In a remote working environment, these have become increasingly valuable tools. 

There are plenty of other picks to choose from too, ranging from “team-building icebreakers” for more established groups to “topic exploration icebreakers,” which help lay the groundwork for more targeted meetings. The common denominator is that all types of icebreakers can help build stronger team connections.

7 fun icebreaker games for meetings

1. exorcise the demons (10 mins) .

Best for: Topic exploration

How: Best for groups of three or more, this is one of the most popular icebreakers from Team Playbook. First you introduce the idea you’ll be brainstorming around in the main meeting. Then, using a shared space in Confluence or Trello, you all note down the worst ideas you can possibly think of. After a few minutes, step back – asking each person to share their favorite worst idea. 

Why: This juices up everyone’s neuropathways before brainstorming – and helps people to resist any temptation to self-censor when the real problem solving begins. This one also boosts psychological safety because, hey, every idea is automatically going to be better than whatever’s already on the page. 

2. True or False (10 mins) 

Best for: Team-building

How: Each person is asked to make three statements about themselves, one of which has to be false. The rest of the group then votes on which “fact” is actually falsehood.   

Why: Not only does this help the group get to know each other better and swiftly reduce stress levels, but it also sparks immediate interaction – as the group comes together to root out the red herrings. 

3. Three Things (5-10 mins)

Best for: Introductions

How: A quick-fire, fast-paced activity. Person A kicks things off by naming a category (for example, “types of dessert”). Person B rattles off three things that fit that theme, as quickly as they can. No judgment and no self-censoring. When they’ve finished, the entire group applauds, and then Person B names the next category. Continue until everyone has had a chance to name the category and the three things.  

Why: This is all about triggering fast, unfiltered thinking before a brainstorming session. It’s not about right or wrong answers, it’s about celebrating the weirdest, funniest contributions and letting your brains relax into a comfortable, accepting, and creative gear.  

4. Team Timeline (15 mins)

Best for: Team building

How: Each team member takes four slips of paper, jotting down an important moment from their life on each. When they’re done, people take turns showing the camera what they have written, and each is added to a shared timeline on a Confluence page or whiteboard.  

Why: This exercise helps show, in a visual way, the different experiences, priorities, and generations within your team. It leads well into talking about shared experiences, breaks down barriers and creates a mindset of authentic communication. 

5. One-word Icebreaker (15 mins)

How: Split participants into small teams (using breakout rooms if you’re on Zoom) and ask them to come up with one word to describe, say, your company culture, or a project you’re working on. Give them a few minutes to discuss amongst themselves, then let each team present their word, and the reasoning behind it. 

Why: This can reveal some surprising answers, with enlightening discussion to follow, which can easily segue into the meeting proper. Plus, starting out with small groups allows everyone the chance to participate in a meaningful way, which can boost their confidence about speaking up in the full session.

5 science-backed team activities that will actually improve performance

6. guess who (5-15 mins).

Best for : Team building

How: Beforehand, everyone emails the facilitator three light-hearted answers from a list of questions. These could be anything from “what was your first job” to “what’s your craziest-ever hair style?” During the icebreaker, the facilitator shares an answer, asking the group to guess who the response belongs to.   

Why: This is a classic team-building exercise for groups of three to 10 employees who have met or interacted before. It’s a fun way for teams to get closer and bond more. 

7. 10 Things in Common (20 mins)

How: Break everyone into small groups in separate rooms over Zoom, being sure to mix departments if possible. Task the groups with finding 10 things that all of them share in common (for example: places they have visited, movies they love, items of clothing they own).   

Why: This is an extremely effective way of encouraging cohesion and building solid inter-departmental relationships, leading to a happier, more committed and engaged workforce. 

Before you start…

While the many benefits of icebreakers are well documented, there are also a number of pitfalls to avoid, too. It’s always a good idea, for example, to start with more simple icebreakers in newly established teams and work your way up. You also want to avoid anything that is too personal or hot-button topics that will foster division instead of cohesion. And always be sure to state the objectives of the task at the start of the exercise, so participants understand what they’re doing and why. 

“One of the key elements of an effective team is cohesion ,” says Dr. Mahreen Khan, an organizational psychologist and emotional intelligence specialist, who’s also a senior qualitative researcher at Atlassian. “In other words, how bonded do you feel with each other? To maximize that cohesion, you need to get to know people on a personal level, and icebreakers can really help with that. People are feeling more disconnected now than ever before, so it’s even more important to use activities like this.”

Want even more icebreakers?

Grab a list of 20+ icebreakers questions in the Atlassian Team Playbook – a free online resource of simple, science-backed workshops that helps teams build on their strengths, troubleshoot difficulties, and encourage positive team dynamics. 

Get more teamwork advice like this in your inbox

Advice, stories, and expertise about work life today.

• 1-800-565-8735
• [email protected]

22 Unbeatable Team Building Problem Solving Activities

Problem-solving is a critical skill for professionals and with team building problem-solving activities, you can sharpen your skills while having fun at the same time.  

Updated: March 1, 2024

In the professional world, one thing is for sure: problem-solving is a vital skill if you want to survive and thrive. It’s a universal job skill that organizations seek in new potential employees and that managers look for when considering candidates for promotions.  

But there’s a problem. 

According to Payscale, 60% of managers feel that new grads entering the workforce lack problem-solving abilities – making it the most commonly lacking soft skill.  

Problem-solving skill needs to be practiced and perfected on an ongoing basis in order to be applied effectively when the time comes. And while there are tons of traditional approaches to becoming a better problem-solver, there’s another (much more interesting) option: team building problem-solving activities. 

The good news? This means learning and having fun don’t have to be mutually exclusive. And you can create a stronger team at the same time. 

16 In-Person Team Building Problem Solving Activities for Your Work Group  

1. cardboard boat building challenge, 2. egg drop , 3. clue murder mystery, 4. marshmallow spaghetti tower  , 5. corporate escape room, 6. wild goose chase, 7. lost at sea  , 8. domino effect challenge, 9. reverse pyramid  , 10. ci: the crime investigators, 11. team pursuit, 12. bridge builders, 13. domino effect challenge, 14. hollywood murder mystery, 15. code break, 16. cardboard boat building challenge, 6 virtual team building problem solving activities for your work group  , 1. virtual escape room: mummy’s curse, 2. virtual clue murder mystery, 3. virtual escape room: jewel heist, 4. virtual code break  , 5. virtual trivia time machine.

• 6. Virtual Jeoparty Social

There are a ton of incredible team building problem solving activities available. We’ve hand-picked 16 of our favorites that we think your corporate group will love too. 

Split into teams and create a cardboard boat made out of just the materials provided: cardboard and tape. Team members will have to work together to engineer a functional boat that will float and sail across water without sinking. Once teams have finished making their boats, they will create a presentation to explain why their boat is the best, before putting their boats to the test. The final challenge will have teams racing their boats to test their durability! Nothing says problem-solving like having to make sure you don’t sink into the water!

Every day at work, you’re forced to make countless decisions – whether they’re massively important or so small you barely think about them.  

But your ability to effectively make decisions is critical in solving problems quickly and effectively.  

With a classic team building problem solving activity like the Egg Drop, that’s exactly what your team will learn to do. 

For this activity, you’ll need some eggs, construction materials, and a place you wouldn’t mind smashing getting dirty with eggshells and yolks.  

The goal of this activity is to create a contraption that will encase an egg and protect it from a fall – whether it’s from standing height or the top of a building. But the challenge is that you and your team will only have a short amount of time to build it before it’s time to test it out, so you’ll have to think quickly! 

To make it even more challenging, you’ll have to build the casing using only simple materials like: 

• Newspapers 
• Plastic wrap
• Rubber bands
• Popsicle sticks
• Cotton balls

Feel free to have some fun in picking the materials. Use whatever you think would be helpful without making things too easy! 

Give your group 15 minutes to construct their egg casing before each team drops their eggs. If multiple eggs survive, increase the height gradually to see whose created the sturdiest contraption.  

If you’re not comfortable with the idea of using eggs for this activity, consider using another breakable alternative, such as lightbulbs for a vegan Egg Drop experience. 

With Clue Murder Mystery, your team will need to solve the murder of a man named Neil Davidson by figuring out who had the means, motive, and opportunity to commit the crime.

But it won’t be easy! You’ll need to exercise your best problem-solving skills and channel your inner detectives if you want to keep this case from going cold and to get justice for the victim.

Collaboration is critical to problem solving. 

Why? Because, as the old saying goes, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. This expression reflects the fact that people are capable of achieving greater things when they work together to do so. 

If you’re looking for a team building problem solving activity that helps boost collaboration, you’ll love Marshmallow Spaghetti Tower.  

This game involves working in teams to build the tallest possible freestanding tower using only marshmallows, uncooked spaghetti, tape, and string.  

The kicker? This all has to be done within an allotted timeframe. We recommend about thirty minutes.  

For an added dimension of challenge, try adding a marshmallow to the top of the tower to make it a little more top heavy.  

Whichever team has the highest tower when time runs out is the winner! 

If you’ve never participated in an escape room, your team is missing out! It’s one of the most effective team building problem solving activities out there because it puts you and your colleagues in a scenario where the only way out is collaboratively solving puzzles and deciphering clues.  

The principle is simple: lock your group in a room, hide the key somewhere in that room, and have them work through challenges within a set time frame. Each challenge will lead them one step closer to finding the key and, ultimately, their escape.    

At Outback, we offer “done-for-you” escape rooms where we’ll transform your office or meeting room so you don’t have to worry about:

• Seeking transportation for your team 
• Capacity of the escape rooms  
• High costs 
• Excessive planning  

That way, you and your team can simply step inside and get to work collaborating, using creative problem solving, and thinking outside the box.   

In this smartphone-based scavenger hunt team building activity , your group will split into teams and complete fun challenges by taking photos and videos around the city. Some examples of challenges you can do in this activity are:

• Parkour:  Take a picture of three team members jumping over an object that’s at least waist-high.
• Beautiful Mind:  Snap a photo of a team member proving a well-known mathematical theorem on a chalkboard.
• Puppy Love:  Take a photo of all of your team members petting a stranger’s dog at the same time.

It takes a ton of critical thinking and problem-solving to be crowned the Wild Goose Chase Champions!

Can you imagine a higher-pressure situation than being stranded at sea in a lifeboat with your colleagues? 

With this team building problem solving activity, that’s exactly the situation you and your group will put yourselves. But by the time the activity is over, you’ll have gained more experience with the idea of having to solve problems under pressure – a common but difficult thing to do. 

Here’s how it works. 

Each team member will get a six-columned chart where: 

• The first column lists the survival items each team has on hand (see the list below) 
• The second column is empty so that each team member can rank the items in order of importance for survival  
• The third column is for group rankings  
• The fourth column is for the “correct” rankings, which are revealed at the end of the activity 
• The fifth and sixth columns are for the team to enter thee difference between their individual and correct scores and the team and correct rankings 

Within this activity, each team will be equipped with the following “survival items,” listed below in order of importance, as well as a pack of matches:  

• A shaving mirror (this can be used to signal passing ships using the sun) 
• A can of gas (could be used for signaling as it could be put in the water and lit with the pack of matches) 
• A water container (for collecting water to re-hydrate ) 
• Emergency food rations (critical survival food) 
• One plastic sheet (can be helpful for shelter or to collect rainwater) 
• Chocolate bars (another food supply) 
• Fishing rods (helpful, but no guarantee of catching food) 
• Rope (can be handy, but not necessarily essential for survival) 
• A floating seat cushion (usable as a life preserver)  
• Shark repellant (could be important when in the water) 
• A bottle of rum (could be useful for cleaning wounds) 
• A radio (could be very helpful but there’s a good chance you’re out of range) 
• A sea chart (this is worthless without navigation equipment) 
• A mosquito net (unless you’ve been shipwrecked somewhere with a ton of mosquitos, this isn’t very useful) 

To get the activity underway, divide your group into teams of five and ask each team member to take ten minutes on their own to rank the items in order of importance in the respective column. Then, give the full team ten minutes as a group to discuss their individual rankings together and take group rankings, listed in that respective column. Ask each group to compare their individual rankings with those of the group as a whole. 

Finally, read out the correct order according to the US Coast Guard, listed above.  

The goal of this activity is for everyone to be heard and to come to a decision together about what they need most to survive.  

If your team works remotely, you can also do this activity online. Using a video conferencing tool like  Zoom , you can bring your group together and separate teams into “break-out rooms” where they’ll take their time individually and then regroup together. At the end, you can bring them back to the full video conference to go through the answers together. 

Many problems are intricately complex and involve a ton of moving parts. And in order to solve this type of problem, you need to be able to examine it systematically, one piece at a time.  

Especially in the business world, many problems or challenges involve multiple different teams or departments working through their respective portions of a problem before coming together in the end to create a holistic solution. 

As you can imagine, this is often easier said than done. And that’s why it’s so important to practice this ability.  

With a collaborative team building problem solving activity like Domino Effect Challenge, that’s exactly what you’ll need to do as you and your group work to create a massive, fully functional chain reaction machine. 

Here’s how it goes. 

Your group will break up into teams, with each team working to complete their own section of a massive “Rube Goldberg” machine. Then, all teams will regroup and assemble the entire machine together. You’ll need to exercise communication, collaboration, and on-the-fly problem solving in order to make your chain reaction machine go off without a hitch from start to finish. 

Being a great problem-solver means being adaptable and creative. And if you’re looking for a quick and easy team building problem solving activity, you’ll love the reverse pyramid. 

The idea here is simple: break your group out into small teams and then stand in the form of a pyramid.  

Your challenge is to flip the base and the peak of the pyramid – but you can only move three people in order to do so.  

Alternatively, rather than doing this activity with people as the pyramid, you can do another version –  the Pyramid Build  – using plastic cups instead.   

This version is a little bit different. Rather than flipping the base of a pyramid to the top, you’ll need to build the pyramid instead–but in reverse, starting from the top cup and working down. 

With this version, you’ll need 36 cups and one table per group. We recommend groups of five to seven people. Give your group 20 to 30 minutes to complete the activity. 

To get started, place one cup face down. Then, lift that cup and place the subsequent two cups underneath it. 

The real challenge here? You can only lift your pyramid by the bottom row in order to put a new row underneath – and only one person at a time can do the lifting. The remaining group members will need to act quickly and work together in order to add the next row so that it will balance the rest of the pyramid. 

If any part of your pyramid falls, you’ll need to start over. Whichever team has the most complete pyramid when time runs out will be the winner!  

The value of being able to approach problems analytically can’t be overstated. Because when problems arise, the best way to solve them is by examining the facts and making a decision based on what you know. 

With CI: The Crime Investigators, this is exactly what your team will be called upon to do as you put your detective’s hats on and work to solve a deadly crime. 

You’ll be presented with evidence and need to uncover and decipher clues. And using only the information at your disposal, you’ll need to examine the facts in order to crack the case. 

Like many of our team building problem solving activities, CI: The Crime Investigators is available in a hosted format, which can take place at your office or an outside venue, as well as a virtually-hosted format that uses video conferencing tools, or a self-hosted version that you can run entirely on your own.  

Each member of your team has their own unique strengths and skills. And by learning to combine those skills, you can overcome any challenge and solve any problem. With Team Pursuit, you and your team together to tackle challenges as you learn new things about one another, discover your hidden talents, and learn to rely on each other.

This team building problem solving activity is perfect for high-energy groups that love to put their heads together and work strategically to solve problems as a group.

Collaborate with your colleague to design and build different segments of a bridge. At the end, see if the sections come together to create a free-standing structure!   

Together as a group, see if you and your colleagues can build a gigantic “chain-reaction” machine that really works!

In smaller groups, participants work together to solve the challenge of creating sections of the machine using miscellaneous parts, and at the end, you’ll have to collaborate to connect it all together and put it in motion.

The case is fresh, but here’s what we know so far: we’ve got an up-and-coming actress who’s been found dead in her hotel room following last night’s awards show.

We have several suspects, but we haven’t been able to put the crime on any of them for sure yet. Now, it’s up to you and your team of detectives to crack the case. Together, you’ll review case files and evidence including police reports, coroners’ reports, photo evidence, tabloids, interrogations, and phone calls as you determine the motive, method, and murderer and bring justice for the victim.

You’ll need to put your problem-solving skills to the test as you share theories, collaborate, and think outside the box with your fellow investigators.

Using Outback’s app, split up into small groups and put your heads together to solve a variety of puzzles, riddles, and trivia. The team who has completed the most challenges when time is up, wins!

Can you stay afloat in a body of water in a boat made entirely of cardboard? Now that is a problem that urgently needs solving.

With this team building problem solving activity, you and your colleagues will split into groups and create a cardboard boat made out of just the materials provided – cardboard and tape.

Team members will have to work together to engineer a functional boat that will float and sail across water without sinking. Once teams have finished making their boats, they will create a presentation to explain why their boat is the best, before putting their boats to the test. The final challenge will have teams racing their boats across the water!

If you and your team are working remotely, don’t worry. You still have a ton of great virtual team building problem solving options at your disposal.

In this virtual escape room experience, your team will be transported into a pyramid cursed by a restless mummy. You’ll have to work together to uncover clues and solve complex challenges to lift the ancient curse.

You’ve probably never heard of a man named Neil Davidson. But your group will need to come together to solve the mystery of his murder by analyzing clues, resolving challenges, and figuring out who had the means, motive, and opportunity to commit a deadly crime. 

This activity will challenge you and your group to approach problems analytically, read between the lines, and use critical thinking in order to identify a suspect and deliver justice.  

If you and your team like brainteasers, then Virtual Escape Room: Jewel Heist will be a big hit.  

Here’s the backstory.

There’s been a robbery. Someone has masterminded a heist to steal a priceless collection of precious jewels, and it’s up to you and your team to recover them before time runs out.

Together, you’ll need to uncover hidden clues and solve a series of brain-boggling challenges that require collaboration, creative problem-solving, and outside-the-box thinking. But be quick! The clock is ticking before the stolen score is gone forever.

With Virtual Code Break, you and your team can learn to be adaptive and dynamic in your thinking in order to tackle any new challenges that come your way. In this activity, your group will connect on a video conferencing platform where your event host will split you out into teams. Together, you’ll have to adapt your problem-solving skills as you race against the clock to tackle a variety of mixed brainteaser challenges ranging from Sudoku to puzzles, a game of Cranium, riddles, and even trivia. 

Curious to see how a virtual team building activity works? Check out this video on a Virtual Clue Murder Mystery in action. 

Step into the Outback Time Machine and take a trip through time, from pre-pandemic 21st century through the decades all the way to the 60’s. 

This exciting, fast-paced virtual trivia game, packed with nostalgia and good vibes, is guaranteed to produce big laughs, friendly competition, and maybe even some chair-dancing. 

Your virtual game show host will warm up guests with a couple of “table hopper rounds” (breakout room mixers) and split you out into teams. Within minutes, your home office will be transformed into a game show stage with your very own game show buzzers! 

And if your team loves trivia, check out our list of the most incredible virtual trivia games for work teams for even more ideas.

6.  Virtual Jeoparty Social

If your remote team is eager to socialize, have some fun as a group, and channel their competitive spirit, we’ve got just the thing for you! With Virtual Jeoparty Social, you and your colleagues will step into your very own virtual Jeopardy-style game show—equipped with a buzzer button, a professional actor as your host, and an immersive game show platform! Best of all, this game has been infused with an ultra-social twist: players will take part in a unique social mixer challenge between each round. 

With the right team building problem solving activities, you can help your team sharpen their core skills to ensure they’re prepared when they inevitably face a challenge at work. And best of all, you can have fun in the process. 

Do you have any favorite team building activities for building problem-solving skills? If so, tell us about them in the comments section below! 

Learn More About Team Building Problem Solving Activities  

For more information about how your group can take part in a virtual team building, training, or coaching solution, reach out to our Employee Engagement Consultants.     

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

And stay updated, related articles.

The Role of Corporate Training in Employee Experience

18 Incredible Virtual Trivia Games for Work Teams

29 Spring Team Building Activities to Help Shake Off the Winter Blues [Updated for 2024]

I love how this blog provides a variety of problem-solving activities for team building. It’s a great resource for anyone looking to foster teamwork and collaboration!