open · Icebreaker · 5–15 min · 4-20 people · low energy

Conversation Starter: What Are You a Geek About?

This icebreaker encourages participants to share their passions and niche interests, fostering a sense of camaraderie and acceptance. It's effective for creating a lighthearted and inclusive atmosphere.

When to use Conversation Starter: What Are You a Geek About?

Use this method to break the ice and encourage participants to be themselves, especially in new teams or groups.

What it solves

Lack of vulnerability, fear of judgment.

How to run Conversation Starter: What Are You a Geek About?, step by step

  1. Introduce the activity and explain that 'geeky' can be anything they are passionate about. (2 minutes)
  2. Each participant shares what they are a 'geek' about. (8 minutes)
  3. Optional: Allow for brief follow-up questions or comments. (5 minutes)

Materials needed

  • None

Facilitator tips

  • Emphasize that there are no wrong answers and encourage participants to be open and honest.
  • Share your own 'geeky' interest to model vulnerability.

Common pitfalls

  • Participants feeling embarrassed to share their interests.
  • Create a safe and supportive environment by emphasizing acceptance and curiosity.

Variations

  • Ask participants to bring an object that represents their 'geeky' interest.

Running it online or hybrid

Participants can share their 'geeky' interests in the chat or via a virtual whiteboard.

What it produces

A list of diverse interests and passions shared among the group.

Origin

Adapted from Erica Marx Coaching — source

Build a session around Conversation Starter: What Are You a Geek About?

METODIC places Conversation Starter: What Are You a Geek About? inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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