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Icebreakers · Get-to-Know-You

18 & Under

Surfaces unexpected hidden talents and history in colleagues.

IcebreakerRapportPersonal Sharing
Duration
10 min
Participants
1–5, 5–10, 10–20, 20–50, 50+
Energy
Low
Difficulty
Beginner
Materials
None
Prep time
5 minutes

2 min read · Delivery: Offline · Virtual

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Overview

Purpose. Surfaces unexpected hidden talents and history in colleagues.

When to use. In the first 15 minutes of a session, once names are known and the group is settling in.

Best for. Any group size, in person or online.

Facilitator preparation

  • No materials to gather; just read through the steps once before you run it.

Room setup. Arrange seating so everyone can see and hear each other clearly.

Virtual setup. Run this over video call, going around the participant list or using “raise hand” order.

Hybrid setup. Alternate between an in-room and a remote participant for each turn.

Materials.

How to Conduct

  1. Explain the prompt: each person will share one accomplishment from before they turned 18, big or small.
  2. Give everyone a moment to think of theirs.
  3. Go around the group, one person at a time, sharing their accomplishment.
  4. Encourage a bit of follow-up curiosity from the group after each share.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE GROUP

  • A few participants may hang back at first; let them opt in when they're ready rather than forcing a turn.

After the activity

DEBRIEF QUESTIONS

  • What part of “18 & Under” felt easy, and what part felt harder than expected?
  • Did anyone's accomplishment surprise you or change how you see them?

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

  • Where in your day-to-day work does someone's earlier history shape a skill or strength they bring now?

Learning outcome. Participants leave having learned an unexpected piece of a colleague's history.

Variations and cautions

Printable checklist

  • No materials needed
  • Debrief questions ready
  • Timer set for 10 min
  • Room / call set up so all can see and hear each other

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