Virtual Icebreaker: Taking On the Question Web

Icebreakers are designed to welcome attendees and warm up the conversation among participants in a meeting, training class, team building session, or other activity. They are also some of the most stressful activities for people who are uncomfortable in large group settings.

So, why use an icebreaker?

They often play a significant role in events in which communication and participant comfort level are important factors. They help to ensure that all attendees are equal participants and if designed successfully, engage participants when you want them to own the outcomes of the meeting or session. These activities can break down the barriers that exist in a workplace through its hierarchy, organizational chart, job titles, and various departmental entities.

Even with the most sophisticated audiences, I've found being playful and unexpecting usually does the trick when it comes to initiating icebreakers. Often, I will use the question web as part of my toolkit to help ease tension.

Below, is an entrepreneurship cohort onboarding where I used The Question Web.

The Question Web in Action

Here's how you can use it next time in your session.

In Person Directions

1. Each circle (10 ppl max) has a spool of string

2. Designate a person to hold on to the end of the string and throw the ball to another person standing in the circle

3. The person holding the string has to choose a question 1-20 to answer

4. Holding the string they then throw it to another member of the group, and so on

Eventually this creates a web as well as learning some interesting things about each other that otherwise could feel too mundane and rehearsed.

Virtual Directions

1. Launch icebreaker video

2. Plan your gathering by selecting a time, tee up a set of conversation questions and invite your group

3. Set the stage by starting a live chat group before the icebreaker begins

4. Kick off the game by matching participants 1-on-1 over video