Last updated: October 29, 2025
I recently led an interactive workshop for the Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) in Fort Worth.
The goal was to get a room full of busy founders to make new connections.
Instead of just doing a boring slideshow, we spent a lot of the time mixing and mingling.
I used a series of structured icebreakers to make it happen, moving from light and fun questions to slightly deeper ones.
The feedback was great— EO members said it was the best event they’d been to in years because they met so many new people.
You can use these questions at your next office party, happy hour, or networking event to spark great conversations.
The “Green Level” Starter
This is a simple, low-stakes question to get the ball rolling. It’s easy for everyone to answer without much thought.
What’s one of your favorite things to eat for breakfast?
Ask this after a basic name and company intro. It’s disarming, relatable, and everyone has an answer. You immediately learn a little something personal about someone.
If you don’t like that question, try this one instead:
What was your first job that you got paid cash money for?
This question brings up funny, nostalgic stories of mowing lawns, babysitting, or working at a local pizza shop. It’s a great way to find common ground.
The Speed Icebreakers
These questions were used in a fast-paced “speed networking” format. Give your guests one minute per question to pair up and share their answers before moving on to a new partner.
- Have you ever met anyone famous?: Even if the answer is “no,” the follow-up “Who would you want to meet?” is just as good. It reveals people’s interests and heroes.
- What is something you bought for under $200 that has made a positive difference in your life?: This question is a gem. It’s practical, and the answers are often surprising and insightful.
- What was one of the most difficult things that you have ever had to do?: This is a “yellow level” question—it goes a bit deeper. It opens the door for vulnerability and creates a space for more meaningful, authentic connections.
BONUS: Here’s a short list of really good icebreaker questions you can use at your next event.
- What was your first job?
- What’s left on your bucket list?
- Who at this event do you admire the most?
- What’s your favorite family tradition?
- Do you have a favorite charity that you wish more people knew about?
The Value-Additive Questions
Use these questions to wrap up your event. The answers provide immediate value to everyone in the room, as people share recommendations and leave with a list of new things to check out.
- What is a great local coffee shop or restaurant that you love in (city)?: Everyone leaves with a new place to try, recommended by a trusted local. It’s a simple way to share community knowledge.
- What is a great piece of media you’ve consumed recently?: This could be a book, podcast, Netflix show, or YouTube video. This is my favorite closing question because it gives everyone homework.
Conclusion
Try a few of these at your next gathering and watch what happens. You’ll be surprised how quickly you can turn a stuffy networking event into a room buzzing with energy and new friendships.
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