Corporate event experiences can be quite different among attendees. For those who attend with others or at least know people there, a corporate event can be an energizing, uplifting experience. But what about those who attend alone or don’t know the other participants? Getting lost in a sea of unfamiliar faces is not remotely pleasant.
As a planner, you can’t necessarily guarantee that each attendee makes positive connections at your events, but you can, at least, improve the odds. And one of the ways you can achieve that is by offering icebreakers: activities designed to get people laugh, thinking, and talking to one another.
We know that finding fresh ideas for icebreakers can be a challenge, so we’re sharing 10 unique icebreaker activities that are fun, effective, and surprisingly easy to implement.
1. ‘HUMAN BINGO" WITH A TWISt’
Concept: Instead of traditional Bingo with numbers, create cards with unique prompts like "Has visited another continent," "Can play a musical instrument," or "Knows a magic trick."
Benefits: Instead of just checking off boxes, attendees must find the person who matches the prompt and get their signature or a small piece of information from them. This encourages interaction and conversation beyond simply identifying a match.
2. ‘COLLABORATIVE STORYTELLING’
Concept: Divide attendees into smaller groups and provide each group with a starting sentence like, "The CEO walked into the office and found..." Each person adds a sentence to the story, building upon the previous one.
Benefits: This taps into creativity and teamwork, leading to hilarious and unexpected results.
3. Blindfolded ‘Taste Test Challenge’
Concept: Blindfold participants and have them taste-test different flavors (could be candy, fruit, or even unusual food combinations).
Benefits: This is a multi-sensory experience that encourages communication and laughter as people try to guess the flavors.
4. ‘Build a Tower/Structure Challenge’
Concept: Provide teams with limited materials (like spaghetti, marshmallows, tape, etc.) and challenge them to build the tallest or most creative structure within a set time.
Benefits: This combines problem-solving, collaboration, and friendly competition.
5. ‘Reverse Charades’
Concept: Instead of one person acting out a word, a whole team acts it out while one person guesses.
Benefits: This flips the traditional game on its head and leads to hilarious group dynamics.
6. ‘Two Truths and a Dream’
Concept: Similar to "Two Truths and a Lie," but instead of a lie, participants share a dream or aspiration.
Benefits: This encourages vulnerability and allows for more personal connections.
7. ‘Speed Networking with a Theme’
Concept: Like speed dating, but with a specific topic or question to guide each short conversation.
Benefits: This adds structure and focus to networking, making it less intimidating and more productive.
8. ‘Photo/Video Challenge’
Concept: Give teams a list of photos or videos to capture (e.g., "a group selfie with the CEO," "a funny video demonstrating teamwork").
Benefits: This encourages attendees to explore the event space and interact with different people.
9. ‘Draw Your "Coat of Arms’
Concept: Have attendees design a personal "coat of arms" that represents their values, skills, or interests.
Benefits: This is a creative way for people to express themselves and share something personal with others.
10. ‘Expert Panel ‘Q&A’
Concept: Before the event, ask attendees to submit questions related to the event theme. During the icebreaker, have a panel of "experts" (could be speakers, organizers, or even knowledgeable attendees) answer the questions.
Benefits: This adds an educational element and encourages audience participation from the start.
TIPS FOR ICEBREAKER SUCCESS
For icebreakers that are a smashing success, keep these planning and execution tips in mind. First, consider your audience and event goals. Choose activities that align with the overall tone and purpose of your event.
Next, clearly explain the instructions and provide any necessary materials. Don't be afraid to demonstrate the activity or have a few volunteers go first to get everyone on board.
Keep the energy high by using music, incorporating friendly competition, and offering small prizes or incentives.
Finally, don't forget to factor in time. Allocate enough time for the icebreaker, but be mindful of the overall event schedule.
The Bell Tower on 34th is an elegant event space with valet parking and onsite security serving the Greater Houston area. Our central location is a short drive from the Galleria area and the Houston Heights area.
Learn more about holding a corporate event here.
The Bell Tower on 34th
901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018
(713) 868-2355