Rings A Bell
| Type of activity: | Ice Breaker Discussion Starter | |
| Participants: | 6 - 100 | |
| Timing: | 15 - 45 Minutes | |
| Key Themes: | Teamwork, Communication |
Overview
A simple and fun activity, ideal as an icebreaker or discussion starter. A good way of ensuring that all mobile phones are switched off at the start of a meeting.
Pre-Work
None required.
Equipment and Layout
Participants can remain seated or standing.
Running The Activity
- Ask each participant to introduce themselves to the group. As part of their introduction they should demonstrate their mobile phone ring tone. They should then explain the reason for their choice or ring tone (or lack of interest in a ‘personal’ ring tone), and offer some comment as to what this might suggest about their personality or style.
- The discussion and feedback among the group will be at the discretion of the facilitator, depending on the group composition and whether the activity is used simply as an ice-breaker or as a starter for a discussion.
Additional Notes
You could introduce this by saying that whereas at most conferences, everyone would be asked to ensure that their mobile phone is switched off, this is slightly different in that everyone will be asked to use their mobile phone as part of the exercise. The introduction will be important – be clear about what you will be asking, especially if this is early in the programme. Perhaps use a flip chart to be sure.
Reviews and Conclusions
Keep this light, as it’s a very light-hearted exercise. Questions to ask include: - how long have individuals had that particular phone/how often do they upgrade? - Why did they choose that model? - Why did they choose that ring tone - What does the phone/ring tone say about you?
Follow-up
This is a fun ice breaker / discussion starter that leads well into other activities or facilitated discussions. Download Rings a Bell Teambuilding PDF here.