Ideas to Get People Acquainted

Use activities to get people acquainted with each other.

Getting together with a group of people who don't know each other can sometimes present a challenge when trying to get a party or event started. Rather than leave the start of social interaction to chance, use simple activities to get the conversations started. With a few quick activities, you can get people talking and getting to know each other in no time.

Create a Time Capsule

Plan a time capsule activity to break the ice.

Ask guests to bring items to your event that represent who they are to be buried in a group time capsule. Not only will the items give everyone a glimpse into the others' personalities, but it will also give them all a chance to talk and mingle as they put the time capsule together and deposit their special pieces into the mix.

Do a Simple Craft Project

Use a simple craft project to bring people together for socializing.

Doing a small craft project that doesn't take extraordinary skill is a good way to get people to socialize. Select a simple craft like making an easy necklace or bracelet. People like making something and taking it home. Use that enjoyment to get the conversations flowing. You could even have a mini fashion show to let them show off their masterpieces and get them talking to others not in their immediate area.

Have a Contest

Use a little friendly competition to get an event started.

The element of competition usually gets most people talking. You can use simple competition to get people talking and cheering at your next event. Arm wrestling, sack races, spaghetti-eating contests -- anything that takes effort includes conversation.

Instead of making the contests all one-on-one competitions, make sure you also have a few group contests. There's nothing like teamwork to get people talking to each other. You'll be surprised on how easily people open up when they have a common goal.

Shoot a Video Together

Use a video camera as a prop to start conversations.

If you have access to a video recorder, you can use it to help break the ice with a room full of people. You can have someone roam around the room like an "on-the-scene" reporter, asking probing -- but friendly -- questions to get people talking. Encourage people to let you film a small talent they have -- such as yodeling or wiggling their ears -- anything to make them talk or laugh.Then arrange a showing of the video for another conversation starter.

References

• Family Reunion: Get Acquainted Activities (Icebreakers)

Resources

• Student Venture: Get-Acquainted and Name Games
• Youthwork Practice: Get-Acquainted Games