Icebreaker Questions That Actually Work

We all know how it goes with virtual meetings: there is an awkward silence while every attendee joins, you’re still thinking about that problem you were working on, and the meeting facilitator doesn’t really know how to start. When done right, icebreaker questions can be a powerful tool to foster genuine connection, and build psychological safety within a team. New teams can get to know each other a bit more, and established groups can benefit from a fresh round of engaging questions.

Here are a few ideas for good icebreakers for work:

For a quick start & low pressure:

• If you could instantly become an expert in something, what would it be? (Reveals aspirations and interests)
• What’s one song you have completely memorized? (Fun, lighthearted, often leads to shared experiences)
• What’s the most interesting thing you’ve read or seen this week? (Encourages sharing of learning and discoveries)

Going a little deeper (for teams with some established trust):

• What’s a small thing that makes your day better? (Focuses on positivity and simple joys)
• If you weren’t in your current role, what job would you be doing? (Explores alternative paths and passions)
• What’s a skill you’re currently working on improving, professional or personal? (Highlights growth mindset)

Key to success:

• Keep it voluntary: Allow people to pass if they’re not comfortable.
• Lead by example: As a facilitator, share your own answer first.
• Listen actively: The goal is connection, not just getting through the questions.

Try a few of these in your next team meeting or generate complete new ones with our icebreaker generator, and see how they can transform the dynamic!