Ice Breaker Games Conversation Starters
Small groups draw question cards and take turns answering - 'Tell me about a risk you took' or 'What's your hidden talent?' Gives structure to conversations so they naturally go deeper.
Group Size:
6-30 people
Duration:
10-15 minutes
Difficulty:
Easy
How to Play:
- 1
Prepare 20-50 question cards with interesting prompts. Write one question per card or use pre-made sets
- 2
Divide people into small groups of 3-5. Give each group a stack of cards face-down
- 3
Each person takes turns drawing a card and answering the question. No pressure to share if they're uncomfortable
- 4
After someone answers, others in the group can ask follow-up questions or share their own similar experiences
- 5
Continue for 10-15 minutes or until energy starts to fade. Groups can draw as many cards as time allows
Conversation Starters
The magic of good questions. When you give people thoughtful prompts instead of awkward silence, conversations naturally go deeper. This works because the structure makes it feel safe - everyone knows their turn is coming, and the questions guide where to go.
The best part is watching people light up when they talk about something they care about. One good question can turn strangers into friends.
Best For:
Deep conversations in new groups, moving beyond small talk, team bonding, revealing personality and values, creating psychological safety
Pro Tips
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Mix question types: fun ('What's your hidden talent?'), reflective ('What's a risk you took?'), values-based ('What matters most to you?')
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Avoid yes/no questions. Use 'Tell me about a time...' or 'What's your opinion on...'
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Create a 'pass' rule so no one feels forced to answer something too personal
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Keep groups small - 3-5 people max. Larger groups make people less likely to open up
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For remote teams, use a random number generator or digital card deck in breakout rooms
Variations
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Speed round: Set 2-minute timer per card, rapid-fire answers, keeps momentum
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Agree/disagree: Cards have opinion statements, people share where they stand and why
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Story version: Questions specifically ask for stories, not just facts ('Tell about a time you failed')
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This or that: Each card has two choices, people pick and explain why
FAQ
- Where can I find good question cards?
- Search online for 'conversation starter cards' or 'table topics questions'. Many free printable sets are available.
- What if someone draws a question they don't want to answer?
- Always include a 'pass' rule. People can skip questions that feel too personal and draw a new card.
- How many cards does each group need?
- Prepare 10-15 cards per group for a 15-minute session. Groups can always recycle cards if they run out.
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