Curiosity Ping Pong

When to use Curiosity Ping Pong

Use this method at the beginning of a virtual meeting or workshop to create a welcoming and interactive environment. It's particularly useful when you want to encourage team members to learn more about each other in a low-pressure setting.

What it solves

Lack of engagement in virtual meetings; difficulty building rapport among remote team members; superficial online interactions.

How to run Curiosity Ping Pong, step by step

1. Pose a thought-provoking question to the group (e.g., "What is something strange you believed as a child?"). (1 minute)
2. Instruct each participant to type their response into the chat window, but not to send it yet. (2 minutes)
3. On your cue, have everyone simultaneously hit 'Enter' to populate the chat with responses. (1 minute)
4. Allow participants a minute to scan the responses in the chat. (1 minute)
5. Invite a volunteer to select a response they're curious about and ask the author to share the story behind it. (2-3 minutes per story)
6. After sharing, the storyteller chooses another response they're curious about, and that person shares their story. Continue for the allotted time.

Materials needed

• Virtual meeting platform with chat function
• Prepared question

Facilitator tips

• Encourage participants to be brief and concise in their initial chat responses.
• Remind participants that they can pass if they don't feel comfortable sharing a particular story.
• Actively listen and acknowledge each person's story to create a supportive environment.

Common pitfalls

• Participants dominating the conversation: Gently redirect the conversation to ensure everyone has a chance to share.
• Lack of participation: Encourage quieter members by asking them direct questions or offering positive reinforcement for their contributions.

Variations

• Use different types of questions (e.g., work-related, personal interests, hypothetical scenarios).
• Have participants vote on the responses they're most curious about.
• Break into smaller groups for more intimate sharing.

Running it online or hybrid

Utilize the chat function in your virtual meeting platform (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams) for participants to share their written responses. Ensure everyone knows how to access and use the chat effectively.

What it produces

A shared understanding of interesting facts and stories from team members, increased comfort and connection within the group.

Origin

Adapted from Playmeo — source

Build a session around Curiosity Ping Pong

METODIC places Curiosity Ping Pong inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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