Starting a meeting with empathy and a shared understanding can make a world of difference in how the session unfolds. One effective way to foster this connection is by performing a Visual Activity or icebreaker at the beginning of the meeting. While some may question, “Why do we need this? Can’t we just dive into the material?” — the answer lies in psychological research. Participants are more engaged when they feel seen and heard, which in turn enhances the overall experience.
Why Icebreakers Matter
A Visual Activity such as an icebreaker serves more than just a "warm-up" function. It helps establish familiarity among participants, setting a tone of comfort and openness. When people feel like they’re part of the conversation, they’re more likely to engage and contribute. This connection can be especially vital when the group is unfamiliar with one another, or if the subject matter requires a high level of collaboration and understanding.
Choosing the Right Icebreaker
The key to an effective icebreaker is evaluating what will resonate with your audience. Visual Activities can cover a variety of topics, but tailoring them to your participants’ personalities and environment is essential. For example, something fun and light-hearted, like “Is a hotdog a sandwich?” could work well with a new team in a relaxed, informal setting. It invites playful debate and sparks laughter.
On the other hand, for a more professional or executive-level group, you might want to opt for an open-ended question like, “What is something in the last five years that has really surprised you?” or “What is your proudest accomplishment over the course of your career?” These questions allow participants to share more meaningful insights, giving them the flexibility to steer their responses in the direction that feels most comfortable, whether that means sharing a personal story or offering a brief but impactful reflection.
The Power of Vulnerability and Authenticity
What we have seen happen when using these types of open-ended questions is that one participant may step forward and provide a very reflective answer, or a leader might set the tone by first answering the icebreaker in an authentic, inspiring way. This often encourages others to answer meaningfully, creating a deeper connection among team members. As a result, the dynamic of the group begins to settle, and everyone feels more personally connected to the conversation.
The goal is to foster an atmosphere where participants are comfortable being themselves, sharing their thoughts, and engaging in a productive and collaborative way.
How Lucid Can Help You
Incorporating empathy and understanding through icebreakers is not just about filling time before a meeting begins — it’s about setting a positive tone that leads to stronger engagement and better collaboration. When people feel heard and seen, they’re more likely to contribute, connect, and help move the conversation forward.
So next time you're planning a meeting, remember: starting with a simple icebreaker can make all the difference. Visual Activities are an easy way to help connect the team in impactful ways.
To learn more about how to set up a Visual Activity, look to this article.
