explore · Team Building · 15–30 min · 2-15 people · low energy

Digital Show and Tell

Participants choose an object within their reach that has personal significance and share the story behind it. This activity bridges the gap between the professional and personal by highlighting individual interests and histories.

When to use Digital Show and Tell

To foster deeper connections and empathy by allowing team members to share a piece of their life outside of work.

What it solves

Feeling like 'just a face on a screen' or a lack of human connection in remote teams.

How to run Digital Show and Tell, step by step

  1. Ask everyone to take 30 seconds to grab an object near them that has a story (1 min).
  2. Set a timer for 90 seconds per person (1 min).
  3. Each person shows the object to the camera and explains why it is meaningful (10-20 mins).
  4. Allow for one quick follow-up question from the group per speaker (5 mins).

Materials needed

  • Timer

Facilitator tips

  • If the group is large, use breakout rooms of 4-5 people for the sharing portion.
  • Model the behavior by showing a meaningful object of your own first.

Common pitfalls

  • People over-explaining and running over time.
  • Participants feeling put on the spot if they don't have anything 'interesting' nearby (reassure them that even a favorite mug counts).

Variations

  • Desktop Tour: Share the most interesting thing on your computer desktop instead of a physical object.

Running it online or hybrid

In-office participants can bring an item from their desk or show a photo on their phone to the camera.

What it produces

Increased personal knowledge and 'connection points' between teammates.

Origin

Adapted from Teamland's virtual activities guide — source

Build a session around Digital Show and Tell

METODIC places Digital Show and Tell inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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