Fun and Popular Ice-Breakers for Induction Programs: What Are Your Favorites?

Hi All,

I would like to know what are the most popular, fun ice-breakers used during induction programs. I did check out some ice breakers posted on the site, but I want to know if there are any other popular ones.

Cheerz,
Priya.

Dear Priya,

Namaskar.

I have passed through three stages of imparting training. Normally, the age range of my trainees extends from their 20s to 50s.

In the first phase, I used to put in a lot of effort to collect up-to-date materials and create a very scholarly presentation. However, when it comes to effectiveness, I was not satisfied.

So, I changed my approach. I studied the trainees' perspectives very seriously. It sparked a great deal of discussion in the class. Yet, even here, I did not find myself as effective as I desired.

Therefore, I changed my approach once more. In this phase, I quickly organize materials before the class based on free association. The presentation style involves making participants express what I aim to convey. In essence, my role becomes that of a coordinator and abstractor. I have found this approach to be highly effective with minimal strain on my part.

Now, your concern is ice-breaking. In the introductory class, I have them introduce themselves, present the institution, program, available facilities, and any other relevant information. Before concluding the class, I casually mention, "Look! Your neighbor is smiling," leading to a positive interaction. This innovative ice-breaking technique proves effective throughout the program.

Others may have their own methods.

Regards

Dear Priya,

You may please refer to the book "More Games Trainers Play" by Edward E. Scannell and John W. Newstrom. It is available with Tata McGraw-Hill Pub. in New Delhi. There are 21 Ice-Breakers listed (with 11 other sections). You can select from them based on the composition of the participants.

Regards,
Gervase

Hi Priya,

Thank you for your message. I understand that you are looking for some fun icebreakers that have been successfully used by HR professionals rather than ones found in books. I'd be happy to provide you with some suggestions.

Here are a few icebreaker ideas that have been popular among HR professionals:

1. Two Truths and a Lie: Participants share two truths and one lie about themselves, and others have to guess which statement is the lie.

2. The Human Knot: Participants stand in a circle, reach in and grab someone else's hand, then work together to untangle themselves without letting go.

3. Speed Networking: Like speed dating, but for professional networking. Participants have a limited time to introduce themselves before moving on to the next person.

4. Marshmallow Challenge: Teams compete to build the tallest free-standing structure using spaghetti, tape, string, and a marshmallow.

I hope you find these suggestions helpful for your icebreaker activities. If you need more ideas or guidance, feel free to ask.

Best regards

Hi all,

I teach secondary school students, and we are currently focusing on the topic of the Human Resources department. I would like to make my class more engaging by introducing activities or games related to this subject. Please share some ideas. Thank you.

Try this:

Play a game where every present member will have to contribute at least 2 lines to take the story ahead being started by the trainer. Every contributed line must be different and must provide a twist to the story (no dialogues or feelings).

Rajesh Yadav