Name that Participant

Purpose. A fun guessing-game format for groups building deeper familiarity.

When to use. With a group that already knows each other at least a little, once names are known and the group is settling in.

Best for. Any group size, works best with a group that already knows each other, in person.

• Prepare a short personal questionnaire in advance. See Trainer's Reference below for example questions.

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

Virtual setup. Collect questionnaire answers via an anonymous form instead of paper.

Hybrid setup. Use the same anonymous form for both remote and in-room participants.

Materials. Questionnaire handout

1. Prepare a short personal questionnaire in advance, a few open-ended or fun questions (see Trainer's Reference below for examples).
2. Give each participant a copy of the questionnaire and a pen.
3. Ask everyone to fill it out privately and anonymously, without writing their name on it.
4. Collect all the completed questionnaires.
5. Read one at random aloud to the group.
6. Let the group guess who wrote it before the actual author reveals themselves.
7. Continue through as many questionnaires as time allows.

Learning outcome. Participants leave having tested, and often strengthened, how well they know their colleagues.

• Questionnaire handout prepared
• Pens
• Debrief questions ready
• Timer set for 30+ min