open · Icebreaker, Team Building · 10–15 min · 5-40 people · medium energy
Trading Cards
Trading Cards is a fun icebreaker that encourages participants to share unique aspects of themselves, fostering connection and creating memorable conversation starters. By visually representing personal facts, it helps break down barriers and build rapport within the group.
When to use Trading Cards
Use this method at the beginning of a workshop or meeting to help participants get to know each other beyond their professional roles and create a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere.
What it solves
Initial awkwardness or hesitation in group settings; difficulty connecting on a personal level; lack of engagement at the start of a session.
How to run Trading Cards, step by step
- Distribute large index cards and markers to each participant. (2 minutes)
- Instruct participants to create a personal 'trading card' including a self-portrait, a nickname, and a little-known fact about themselves. (5-7 minutes)
- Have participants pass their cards around the room randomly, reading each card they receive and holding onto one that piques their interest. (3-5 minutes)
- Facilitate a Q&A session where participants share the name and nickname from the card they selected and ask the card's creator a question about their little-known fact. (Ongoing until time is up)
Materials needed
- Large index cards
- Markers
- Timer
Facilitator tips
- Encourage creativity and humor in the card creation process.
- Ensure that the questions asked during the Q&A session remain respectful and appropriate.
Common pitfalls
- Participants struggling to think of a little-known fact. - Suggest categories like hobbies, travel experiences, or unusual skills.
- Q&A session becoming too lengthy. - Set a time limit for each question and answer.
Variations
- Instead of passing cards physically, create a digital version on a shared whiteboard.
- Focus the 'little-known fact' on a specific theme related to the workshop topic.
Running it online or hybrid
Use a virtual whiteboard tool like Miro or Mural for participants to create and share their trading cards. Facilitate the sharing and Q&A using video conferencing.
What it produces
A collection of personal 'trading cards' that visually represent each participant and spark conversation.
Origin
Adapted from Gamestorming — source
Build a session around Trading Cards
METODIC places Trading Cards inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.