How to Choose Icebreakers for Your Event (Without Making It Weird)
Not all icebreakers are created equal. What works at a casual happy hour might flop at a leadership summit. So how do you choose icebreaker activities that actually fit your event—and make people want to participate?
In this post, we'll walk through a simple framework to help you select the right icebreaker for any group or gathering. And don't worry—we'll help you avoid anything that makes your attendees cringe.
📖 Table of Contents
- Consider Your Audience
- Define Your Goal
- Match the Energy Level
- Factor in Time and Space
- Don't Force It
- Try a Digital Tool Like Jam Bingo
1. Consider Your Audience
Are you working with a group of corporate executives, young entrepreneurs, or new hires? Tailoring the tone of your icebreaker to your attendees' experience level and comfort with social activities is key. Avoid games that require vulnerability too early, especially with groups that don't know each other yet.
2. Define Your Goal
Do you want attendees to get to know each other, learn something about the company, or simply energize the room? Choose icebreakers that support your event's purpose. A “shared goals” activity works great for strategic planning. Something like “human bingo” is ideal for mingling and breaking the ice fast.
3. Match the Energy Level
Early morning? Go light. After lunch slump? Go interactive. Choose activities that reflect the energy in the room—and ideally boost it. Avoid high-energy group games if attendees just spent 4 hours in back-to-back sessions.
4. Factor in Time and Space
Some icebreakers require a room to move around in or a facilitator to guide the activity. Others—like Jam Bingo—can run without a facilitator and requires room for attendees to walk about and interact. Always pick games that work with the format and schedule you have.
5. Don't Force It
Nothing kills the vibe faster than being told, “Now we're all going to share something personal with a stranger.” Instead, invite—not obligate—people to join. Framing it as “something to try” rather than a requirement makes participation feel more natural.
6. Try a Digital Tool Like Jam Bingo
One of the easiest ways to run a professional icebreaker? Use a digital tool that's easy to access and fun to use. Jam Bingo helps attendees start conversations on their own terms. Prompts like “Find someone who works remotely” or “Find someone who just changed jobs” make it easy for people to engage—even if they're introverted.
No more awkward introductions or forced team-building moments. When done right, icebreakers can turn your event from forgettable to impactful. Just remember: your attendees want connection, not cringe.