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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To identify the things they have in common with the other members of the group.
• To understand how finding connections influences their feelings about other people.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 20 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To identify the things they have in common with the other members of the group.
• To understand how finding connections influences their feelings about other people.
Group Size:
Suitable for use with groups of almost any size.
You'll Need:
• A copy of the handout for each participant and a roll of Sellotape for each team.
• A small prize is optional.
Notes:
This is a great exercise to get people talking and could be run over lunch at a networking event.
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My group loved this ice-breaker. We used it just after lunch, so it was good to get everyone on their feet.
Given that our delegates were from various parts of the U.K. but working for the same organisation, the ice-breaker was instrumental in helping them discover commonalities and build their professional network. It was a valuable opportunity for them to connect on a deeper level.
Short & lots of laughter was had.
Definitely use it again.
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Pauline Weddell
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 15 minutes.
Aims:
• To demonstrate that our perspective on a situation might be very different to someone else’s and that this does not necessarily mean one party is ‘right’ and one is ‘wrong’.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 15 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To demonstrate that our perspective on a situation might be very different to someone else’s and that this does not necessarily mean one party is ‘right’ and one is ‘wrong’.
Group Size:
Can be used with groups of up to 25 participants.
Useful For:
Anyone.
You'll Need:
• Copies of the house pictures provided.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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I used this activity with a group of managers of all ages. The team were struggling to gel due to the generational gaps. After some learning of the different generations I split them into their generation groups, ie Gen X, Millenials, Baby Boomers, and they engaged in this activity. It was a huge success. This provided the lightbulb moment where they all accepted that different perspectives are relevant in their working environment. Where there is no right perspective, but simply a different view. Excellent activity.
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Tracy Windross
rated this item with 5 stars.
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I used this for a workshop on Performance Management to let managers see that their view may not be the only view of an individual or their performance. It was great fun to do, but also the team kept referring back to the activity throughout the day, which was great. Really got them thinking which was good.
It is easy to use, and I will definitely be using it again in future workshops.
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Pauline Weddell
rated this item with 5 stars.
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I used this as an after lunch exercise to keep people on their feet and working in teams straight away. It followed a session about making assumptions and preceded a session on challenging assumptions and being curious, asking effective questions. It slotted in really well and worked as the perfect short exercise, energiser and thought provoker.
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Naomi Coleman
rated this item with 4 stars.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 30 minutes.
Aims:
• To explore the importance of trust and how easily it is lost.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 20 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 30 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To explore the importance of trust and how easily it is lost.
Group Size:
Suitable for use with groups of almost any size.
Useful For:
Staff at all levels.
You'll Need:
• A whistle or bell (optional) to let the group know when to stop.
• A selection of small prizes.
Notes:
This provides an interesting insight into how tribalism, based on fear, is created and the implications of that.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this icebreaker available in Trainers’ Library.
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I used this ice-breaker with a newly formed project group that was going to work on organisational culture, values, and behaviours.
It was the perfect activity, with the team making lots of assumptions about who an alien was due to their behaviour, body language, etc.
I helped the team open up the topic of assumptions and trust and linked nicely into the day ahead.
I liked it as it was easy to set up - no resources needed and gave me so much information that we could refer to throughout the day.
At the end of the day, the delegates all stated that they loved the activity - so it's one that I will definitely be using again.
Thanks Trainers Library for a great Ice Breaker.
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Pauline Weddell
rated this item with 5 stars.
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We used this activity when our team had grown very quickly and there were signs of there being a few cracks. It led to a facilitated conversation about misinterpreting others and how its easy to make assumptions based on nothing. A really good activity to open up a really tough conversation
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Katie Hastie
rated this item with 5 stars.
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I downloaded the Alien Invasion activity for a team building event with one of our departments, to embed the need for trust within the team and to build effectiveness in times of change. It went down really well, we went from a group of 20 people who had raised trust, honesty, transparency, and communication as key values/requirements within the team, to a roomful of suspicious, judgemental and distrusting individuals that were certain of who the “Aliens” were. There were a lot of laughs along the way but the realisation that they were all human was classic, and definitely a light bulb moment for applying all the values raised previously and not jumping on the assumption wagon. An excellent and fun activity that helped land the aims of the day. I also got some great feedback about the event from the department Director who also attended. Thanks for providing great content.
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Joyce Macleod
rated this item with 5 stars.
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I used Alien Invasion at a recent team day, and it went down a storm! It was fun and helped us to land some serious points about communication and trust.
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Julie Terry
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To explore the effects and reactions to change when communication is limited.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 5 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 20 minutes. Aims:
• To explore the effects and reactions to change when communication is limited. Group Size:
This module is suitable for use with groups of almost any size. You'll Need:
Nothing other than the materials provided. Notes:
Avoid the temptation to brief this exercise in any way.
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I used the all change module to help with a cultural change course I was writing for the organisation. It worked so well and really highlighted to the participants the importance of sharing information and communicating effectively. It was a challenge for me, delivering the session, not to explain why I was asking the group to do so much but the effect it had following was worth the exercise. I recommend this module to really get people thinking about how to communicate change.
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Devi Patel
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To energise a group.
• To test participants’ abilities to work together quickly to solve a simple problem.
• To introduce the concept of continuous improvement.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 20 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To energise a group.
• To test participants’ abilities to work together quickly to solve a simple problem.
• To introduce the concept of continuous improvement.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of up to 25 participants.
Useful For:
All participants.
You'll Need:
• Nothing other than the materials provided.
Notes:
This simple activity is one you can return to several times in your training to demonstrate the principles of continuous improvement. Provided you have more than one team, this activity adds an extra dimension to the remote delivery module, ‘Hands Up, Line Up! ’ by encouraging participants to reflect on how a silo mentality might impact continuous improvement.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
The Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library is called ‘Hands Up, Line Up!’.
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This is a really good activity and gets people thinking differently. It can be a difficult one to manage if numbers of learners suddenly change but thats just another example of problem solving
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Laura Otten
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 30 minutes.
Aims:
• To review knowledge, share feedback or quiz participants.
• To assess current awareness of a situation or challenge.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 30 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To review knowledge, share feedback or quiz participants.
• To assess current awareness of a situation or challenge.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of up to 24 participants.
Useful For:
Any situation where you want to inject some fun and humour whilst testing your participants’ knowledge or awareness.
You'll Need:
• To pre-prepare a series of questions, each with multiple answers.
Notes:
Developed to share customer feedback with our team, this is also a great activity to use in any situation where you want to run a quiz where questions have more than one answer. For example, you could use it to test participants’ knowledge of the main features of a product or service, or to remind teams of their successes.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library called Let's See if it's There .
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 25 minutes.
Aims:
• To understand the importance of listening skills.
• To illustrate the dangers of making assumptions.
• To provoke discussion about prejudices and stereotypes.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 25 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To understand the importance of listening skills.
• To illustrate the dangers of making assumptions.
• To provoke discussion about prejudices and stereotypes.
Group Size:
Suitable for use with groups of almost any size. This module is also suitable for remote/virtual delivery – see separate note.
You'll Need:
• Pens and paper for every participant.
• The audio recording of the story, which can be streamed from Trainers’ Library if you prefer not to read it aloud yourself.
Notes:
If reading the story to participants, we suggest that you rehearse reading the story aloud a few times prior to delivery. This module has been endorsed by Show Racism the Red Card. For more information about the great work this charity is doing to educate against racism, visit www.theredcard.org .
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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We use this frequently in our leadership training. It is fun and gets varied responses which gets the grouo challenging each other.
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Laura Otten
rated this item with 5 stars.
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One of my favourite sessions to run, it really is very effective as helping delegates consider how their thinking might impact their decisions and to consider any in-built prejudices they might along with helping them re-think their behaviours and approaches. It's simple to deliver and the delegates remember it.
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Yvonne Thompson
rated this item with 5 stars.
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A simple exercise to run with minimal equipment. I ran this with a team experienced in acknowledging and working with differences. However, they were surprised at how easily they still made assumptions and used past experiences, which impacted their ability to decide on the facts. Ideal activity to ad to and ED&I session a the beginning.
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Zoe Horwood
rated this item with 5 stars.
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I have used this resource a number of times over the years. It was particularly well received when delivered to a group of our lawyers and decision makers. Demonstrating the importance of listening and not making assumptions to improve decision making.
It's one of my favourite exercises to deliver!
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Marie Mostaeddi
rated this item with 5 stars.
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I love this exercise and have used it a lot over the years working with all levels in a wide variety of organisations. It's amazing to see how quickly people go to the assumption stage and the discussions are so powerful in highlighting what we need to focus on in our every day - at work AND at home!
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Lottie Skuthe-Cook
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Witches of Glum is one of my most used resources across the whole of Trainers' Library. I use this in many different situations. Listening skills is always good to use this and get everyone up on their feet in a training session and moving about the room as they decide the answers.
It is great for challenging assumptions that people make and works well when using in Equality and Diversity workshops to really get into challenging assumptions in a non confrontational way.
An excellent exercise that is well written and works in many different situations.
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Ric Hayden
rated this item with 5 stars.
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A really versatile exercise that is quick, easy and fun. I have used it in communication courses, management programmes and Diversity sessions. It is a good alternative to the Goldilocks exercise. Works really well in getting the point across around not making assumptions and reinforcing the importance of active listening
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Mike Taylor
rated this item with 5 stars.
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One of my favourite Trainers' Library exercises that never fails to get people thinking, usually in Diversity training. The powerful exercise brings to life how easy it is to make stereotypes and then generates powerful discussion around how this happens in the workplace and the impact it has.
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Emma Wynne
rated this item with 5 stars.
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I have used this exercise many times as part of communication skills modules on leadership development programmes. Although the exercise illustrates the separate topics of the importance of not making assumptions and of active listening, delegates quickly see the link between these and that we all do the aural equivalent of "scan reading" and miss details because we assume.
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Paula Cook
rated this item with 5 stars.
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As well as using this exercise to illustrate assumptions and stereotypes, I use it in my 'Minute Taking with Confidence' course. I read the story and encourage delegates to take notes (perhaps after a session on speed writing). I then quiz them - and many STILL make assumptions even though they've taken notes (eg the King is old). I then get them to analyse what should be included in the Minutes using ABCD eg what's vitally important (the Absolutes), what are the Basics or the Background to the story, what adds Colour to your minutes to bring the story to life - and what can be left out (the Dumps - eg Christina, the wheelchair etc)
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Sally Jones
rated this item with 5 stars.
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What I particularly like about this exercise is that it can be adapted to use in a variety of different sessions. I have already used it as an exercise on assumptions in a module on equality and diversity and I will also be using it in my helpline skills training on effective listening.
The exercise is a fun way to get across an important message, and the recording that is included with the downloads allows the trainer to rest their voice for a short time, which is a bonus for both trainer and trainees in most cases!
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Previous Member
rated this item with 4 stars.
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I love this activity it really increases delegates self-awareness on their listening skills and how easily they can make assumptions.
Before I run this activity I get the delegates to score their current listening skills out of 10, and then once they complete the activity then re look at their score to check this is a fair assessment.
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Jennifer Stevens
rated this item with 4 stars.
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I was planning some team-building activities to incorporate into our Business Skills series. I’ve since trialled your Witches of Glum on a group of B1-C1 level participants (Italian professionals, from the same company). The response was great, stimulated lots of discussion about stereotyping and gave way for a fantastic reflection session. All in English - as our business English courses and workshops always are.
One of the interesting 'take-aways' was that the fear of not understanding every word (the B1s) was greatly reduced as they were told they were going to hear a story. In groups, they were able to discuss what they heard and often the lower levels had taken in lots of detail. The problem with stereotyping also arose - which led into discussion about issues with stereo-typing internal and external clients.
As a trainer, I really enjoyed behind able to pick something up and run with it. It was a great time-saver. I could also work on what the activity could offer much more.
I would probably give the activity a 4.5. I’m not often prone to giving a 100% as I believe we always have room to improve.
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Previous Member
rated this item with 4 stars.
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We tend to train somewhat cynical engineers who really take a lot of engaging in order to deliver any Soft Skills. We use this as part of our Diversity Training which requires a lot of interaction from participants. This activity is great to disarm all participates from a “we know it already” stance to actually join in and actively participating. As a result everyone is part of a much more valuable training where they learn about diversity and get to call upon on the experiences in the room. A great start to a session! Thanks.
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Previous Member
rated this item with 5 stars.
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I use this a lot and it is easy to adapt to sessions on appraisals, feedback, objectivity, diversity and especially good where staff/managers are expected to record summary notes from conversations with customers/staff
One option is to get people to do it in pairs as thing brings in the likelihood that one of the pair had the right answer but was talked out of it despite having 'evidence' written down. (influencing)
It is also quite useful, once they have heard the story, to read all 15 statements as a summary and to ask if it sounds like a fair reflection of the story - most agree it is - then by reviewing each statement, participants see that all but two sentences were accurate.
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Previous Member
rated this item with 5 stars.
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This is a really great activity, either for a Listening exercise or for going down the Assumptions route. Use it for both Health and Safety training and also on the PTLLS course I run. Excellent!!!
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Previous Member
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Terrific. Can be shortened or lengthened as you need. I’ve used it as recommended to explore assumptions in equality settings, but also really well as an icebreaker for an interview skills workshop. Once I’d revealed how badly people listened, we went on to discuss the way some people assume they know what the question is about and don’t listen carefully enough to understand what the interviewer wants. I really liked the audio file, the story was familiar but different enough to be interesting and it made a change than listening to the trainers voice.
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Nicky McCrudden
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Both these modules (Assumptions – The Witches of Glum and Goldilocks – a Listening Exercise) are excellent for demonstrating the need for ‘active’ listening skills and how easy it is to make assumptions and ‘hear’ what you think was said. These modules worked extremely well and prompted lots of interest from the participants and also some key learning points were easily identified. It then required some simple facilitation skills to identify ways to become better listeners and again to highlight some easy steps that everyone could take to improve their skills.
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Previous Member
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We use the witches of glum as a useful exercise in the induction programme. As our company is a financial retail business we deal with all types customers from all walks of life. We teach new starters that they should not make assumptions on a customer’s appearance. Just because they look scruffy doesn’t mean that they may be poor. By reading out the story it is clear that people make assumptions to what the answers should be rather than actually listening to the facts. I then have a discussion with the group asking them why they made the assumptions and it really makes them think about it.
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Previous Member
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Successful eyeopener about the danger of making assumptions. One participant remarked afterwards: "I have just realised what a dreadful listener I am", which was a great learning point for all. However, some of the statements are ambiguous and biased towards eliciting an incorrect "true" answer. For example: "The king was an old man who could no longer walk." Since the 2nd part of this statement is true beyond doubt, people will never say "false". I solved this by reducing the statements to only one fact. Some examples: "The king could no longer walk".
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Previous Member
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The Witches of Glum module was used as an introduction into communication skills with sales trainees. The delegates appreciated the story and questions and quickly learnt through the course about the assumptions they had made and as a result, were easily able to relate this to how they communicate with customers and colleagues. This was an effective module near the beginning of the course; the delegates had an increased awareness of natural assumptions and listening skills which effectively introduced further modules within the course.
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Previous Member
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This week I ran a seminar for members of the local branch of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development in Shropshire. The topic for the presentation was “Diversity for Dummies”. This was my first venture into this type of presentation of this topic as I have only recently begun to train in the topic with the Ford Motor Company. As an alternative to risking ‘Death by Powerpoint’ I decided to use “The witches of Glum” as a medium for getting across how easily we drop into making assumptions and the potential impact making those assumptions. I used the exercise exactly as provided and was delighted with the way that those present took to it and enjoyed the different way of making a valuable learning lesson. Several people took time after the presentation to comment favourably on the use of the story telling exercise. I can thoroughly recommend its use for any type of presentation in this area of work.
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Paul Brennan
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The Witches of Glum exercise has been used within our customer service course. It has allowed us to use a fun exercise to identify the pitfalls of assumptions and stereotypical situations. The delegates have found this to be amusing as it is a clear break away from the business theme of other exercises. The trainers notes are very well laid out and it is what all exercises should be, simple and yet effective.
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Previous Member
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I have recently used this exercise to introduce a session on cultural differences as the organisation was transferring its HR shared service to another country. The training itself was quite challenging as it was perceived to be a big change to how our managers currently operate however, I used the exercise to introduce the final part of the day. This made a considerable difference to the atmosphere and energy levels within the group. They began to understand the assumptions we make about other cultures and they became receptive to altering their communication style to ensure their interaction was effective.
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Clare Wilkes
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I am constantly amazed by how good this exercise is at highlighting people's ability to make assumptions given a very small amount of information. I've used this in a number of different sessions where it was important to highlight the amazing ability people have to fill in the gaps of the story with their ideas and remembered bits of old fairy tales. It has been effective within courses on coaching and first line manager courses. I have read the questions out from the materials and this worked just as well as writing them all out on the flip chart. This activity is so popular that staff often ask to do it again at other events.
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Helen Walker
rated this item with 5 stars.
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We are running a series of sessions on HR Skills for Managers , the first of which deals with Managing Diversity Are You a Fair Manager? Having identified what diversity is the trainer asks the delegates to sit back, listen to a story and expect to answer some questions about the subject afterwards. The story is, of course, Assumptions The Witches of Glum. This is a great little exercise that really demonstrates to the delegates how readily assumptions are made and how guilty of it they are. At least 50% of the delegates get less that 50% of the statements right each time we run the session perfectly illustrating the learning point. Give it a go, youll love the results!
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Tracy Croft
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 15 minutes.
Aims:
• To help participants identify things they have in common with one another.
• To show the benefits of building rapport to create effective working relationships.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to run. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 15 minutes for completion. Aims:
• To help participants identify things they have in common with one another.
• To show the benefits of building rapport to create effective working relationships. Group Size:
This module is suitable for use with groups of almost any size. You'll Need:
• Bingo cards. (We've provided some.)
• A small prize for the winning participant is a nice touch, but not essential. Notes:
We have provided pre-prepared bingo cards, but feel free to adapt them to meet the specific needs of your participants.
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This is a great exercise to use as an icebreaker for any type of course. I’ve used this icebreaker in sales, telesales, management and customer service courses and the feedback from my group is always a positive one. I feel the exercise works particularly well at the beginning of a course which involves questioning to build rapport as this exercise sets this up really nicely. It can also work really well when your course involves an element of problem solving, as nothing about the exercise says that your participants need to stay in the training room. I had one group running around the hotel getting to know the staff and the guests! The only criticisms are that it can be difficult to facilitate with a smaller group, especially if in an environment where they can’t really leave the training room and it can also be difficult to manage timings as you’re never quite sure how many people in the group can answer positively for each section. One way round this I’ve found is to use the same format but to change some of the questions on the bingo card to suit the type of group.
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Previous Member
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 30 minutes.
Aims:
• To explore the kind of behaviours that are needed to be an effective contributor to online meetings or conference calls.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 30 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To explore the kind of behaviours that are needed to be an effective contributor to online meetings or conference calls.
Group Size:
Can be used with groups of up to 25 participants.
Useful For:
Anyone.
You'll Need:
• Flipchart, pens and sticky notes for all participants.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To explore why difficult conversations can be necessary and form part of healthy working relationships.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 5 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 20 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To explore why difficult conversations can be necessary and form part of healthy working relationships.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of up to 25 participants.
Useful For:
Anyone.
You'll Need:
• Nothing other than the materials provided.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To explore how your participants feel about a variety of changes.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing about 20 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To explore how your participants feel about a variety of changes.
Group Size:
This activity can be used with groups of any size.
Useful For:
Staff at all levels.
You'll Need:
• A piece of string or rope that is approximately 4 metres long.
Notes:
You will need a clear space in which to lay out your ‘Change Spectrum’ and for participants to move along it.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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A really simple and yet great opener to a change program which enables people to explore their different reactions to change. I've used this a few times now and it always create some great discussions.
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Elaine Stephens
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 15 minutes.
Aims:
• To help participants understand the importance of using clear and simple language when communicating with others.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 15 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To help participants understand the importance of using clear and simple language when communicating with others.
Group Size:
Suitable for use with groups of almost any size.
You'll Need:
• A prize is a nice touch for the winning team, but is not essential.
• A stopwatch or timer.
Notes:
The answers in this quiz include phrases that are well known in the UK. Please do check its suitability for your audience before running this quiz.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 15 minutes.
Aims:
• To reflect on how well participants work together in a competitive situation.
• To re-energise a group.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 15 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To reflect on how well participants work together in a competitive situation.
• To re-energise a group.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of almost any size.
Useful For:
Anyone.
You'll Need:
• One set of the Colour Confusion Cards per team, which you will need to cut out beforehand.
Notes:
This game is best played in teams with between 3 and 5 participants in each. Please note, this exercise may not be suitable if you have participants who suffer from colour-blindness, or who are visually impaired.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To explore how accurate participants can be when working under pressure.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 5 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 20 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To explore how accurate participants can be when working under pressure.
Group Size:
Can be used with groups of up to 25 participants.
Useful For:
Anyone.
You'll Need:
• One set of the Name, Colour and Shape Cards per team, which you will need to cut out beforehand.
Notes:
This is a more demanding version of the Colour Confusion activity that can be used as a follow-on.This game is best played in teams with 2-3 participants in each. Please note, this exercise may not be suitable if you have participants who suffer from colour-blindness, or who are visually impaired.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 30 minutes.
Aims:
• To welcome the participants.
• To introduce the facilitator(s) and participants to each other.
• To introduce the facilities.
• To agree the course objectives and timetable.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 25 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 30 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To welcome the participants.
• To introduce the facilitator(s) and participants to each other.
• To introduce the facilities.
• To agree the course objectives and timetable.
Group Size:
This module is suitable for use with groups of almost any size.
You'll Need:
Nothing, other than the materials provided.
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I used 'course introduction' with a group on a departmental awayday. This really focused participants on the rationale for the day and allowed the groundrules to be discussed in a way that wouldn't have happened otherwise. The 'expectations of each other' allowed discussion of acceptable and desirable behaviour to be clearly stated in a department where several staff members are overbearing and dominatiing in such meetings usually. The main content of the day was more fruitful once this had happened.
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Serena Yeo
rated this item with 4 stars.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 25 minutes.
Aims:
• To demonstrate the importance of asking the right questions when trying to understand another’s perspective.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 25 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To demonstrate the importance of asking the right questions when trying to understand another’s perspective.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of almost any size.
Useful For:
Anyone.
You'll Need:
• Drawing equipment for your participants.
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This is such a good activity, fun and makes for really effective learning. I used this as part of a training course to encourage phone based customer service people to ask more questions to build company brand awareness and spot opportunities to pass to sales.
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Clare Bell
rated this item with 5 stars.
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This is such a good activity, fun and makes for really effective learning. I used this as part of a training course to encourage phone based customer service people to ask more questions to build company brand awareness and spot opportunities to pass to sales.
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Clare Bell
rated this item with 5 stars.
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I used this virtually with a team as an icebreaker at the start of a course around successful business partnering. It worked really well to get people to think about the types of questions they need to ask their stakeholders. Great exercise!
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Elaine Stephens
rated this item with 5 stars.
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This is a great exercise for demonstrating the importance of thinking about the types of question you need to ask to get the information you need. It is also a fun activity, highly engaging and a great way to get energy levels back up during a session.
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Louise Ramsey
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 15 minutes.
Aims:
• To test participants accuracy under pressure when working in teams.
• To reflect on how they could have improved their performance.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 5 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 15 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To test participants accuracy under pressure when working in teams.
• To reflect on how they could have improved their performance.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of almost any size.
Useful For:
Anyone.
You'll Need:
• One set of the Name Cards per team, which you will need to cut out beforehand.
• The PowerPoint slides of challenges, provided.
Notes:
This game is best played in teams with 3-5 participants in each. Please note, this exercise may not be suitable if you have participants who suffer from colour-blindness, or who are visually impaired.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 30 minutes.
Aims:
• To test participants’ abilities to work together and solve a problem.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to run. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 30 minutes for completion. Aims:
• To test participants’ abilities to work together and solve a problem. Group Size:
This module is suitable for use with groups of between 6 and 24 participants. You'll Need:
Two lengths of string (approximately 30cm long) for each participant. Notes:
This exercise involves bending and twisting and may not be suitable for all participants. Please remind participants to take care in this exercise.
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I recently used this exercise at a large team away day. It was easy to facilitate and manage the exercise and worked especially well after lunch as an energiser. It gave the participants an opportunity to have some light-hearted fun and after the exercise, they were able to review how they communicated with each other. We also discussed how they could have completed the exercise more quickly and effectively which gave some interesting points for consideration. It was a great, fun game that enabled the group who were previously working quite autonomously, to work together to achieve a shared goal. This translated very well into the work they do on a daily basis.
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Tracy Barlow
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 25 minutes.
Aims:
• To demonstrate how easy it is for communication to breakdown and misunderstandings to occur.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 25 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To demonstrate how easy it is for communication to breakdown and misunderstandings to occur.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of up to 15 participants.
Useful For:
Anyone.
You'll Need:
• Space for participants to wait outside the training room until they are called back in one-by-one.
Notes:
The time it takes to run the exercise will depend on the number of participants you have in your group. If you have a larger group, you will need to allow more time to run the activity.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To test listening skills.
• To illustrate the dangers of making assumptions.
• To encourage participants to think about how they can check their understanding of information they receive.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 20 minutes for completion. (You may wish to take more time for larger groups or where you want to explore some of the learning in more detail.)
Aims:
• To test listening skills.
• To illustrate the dangers of making assumptions.
• To encourage participants to think about how they can check their understanding of information they receive.
Group Size:
This module is suitable for use with groups of almost any size. It is possible to use this exercise in conference situations as well as more usual training interventions like courses and workshops.
You'll Need:
• A pre-prepared flipchart of the statements from the handout (hidden from view until required).
• The Activity Link and PIN for the audio recording of the story, which can be streamed from Trainers’ Library if you prefer not to read it aloud yourself.
Notes:
If reading the story to participants, we suggest that you rehearse reading the story aloud a few times prior to delivery.
If You Like This Training Exercise:
You’ll LOVE ‘The Witches of Glum’ which is also available from Trainers’ Library. ‘The Witches of Glum’ has been endorsed by Show Racism the Red Card for its ability to make participants think about prejudice and stereotypes. To find out more about the great work this charity is doing to educate against racism, visit www.theredcard.org .
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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Great talking points and good to understand how previous perceptions can influence our decision making and listening skills. Taking the time to actively listen can avoid conflict and misunderstanding!
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Michelle Maidens
rated this item with 5 stars.
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An oldy but a goody! Always has an amazing impact when used, great talking points.
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Katharine Shaw
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Another one of my favourites - it's so incredibly powerful and I've used it on all levels within the organisations I work with.
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Lottie Skuthe-Cook
rated this item with 5 stars.
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I have used this activity for over 10 years now. It's an old favourite and can be used in so many ways.
Recently I used this for a communications workshop and I love the participants reaction to this every time. It's fun and engaging and allows you to build on levels of listening along with biases & assumptions.
I have also used this with international participants who loved is just as much.
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Pauline Weddell
rated this item with 5 stars.
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We have been using this activity in our Equality and Diversity sessions to demonstrate what happens when we make assumptions or go into something with a preconceived
idea in our mind. Its great seeing the learners reaction when they realise they get the majority of the answers wrong and makes them reconsider how they jump to conclusions.
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Hannah Bell
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Another great exercise. It really gets the message across well. I have used it in small groups of 6+ and more recently I used it as part of a large event on commissioning / co-creation where we had 50+ so it is very versatile. Generally people enjoy the exercise, you may get the occasional grumble, but on the whole I have found it to be well received. Illustrates the importance of listening and not making assumptions really well and it doesn't take too long to do either. A good, quick exercise
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Mike Taylor
rated this item with 4 stars.
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I'm in danger of over-using this fantastic exercise! It's a great way of illustrating that we're not as good at listening as we think we are. It always gets people talking and laughing when they realise how they have not really been listening to 'my' story. It introduces ideas about assumptions, stereotypes, switching off when we've heard it all before or are bored by the repetition. I used it recently when the rather cocky 'I'm a brilliant manager' delegate got only 3 right, and the rather shy, newly promoted manager got 11/12. You should have seen their faces when I awarded a star to the winner!
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Sally Jones
rated this item with 5 stars.
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I've used this in Customer Service training to highlight the importance of not making assumptions about what you think you know or think the Customer wants when making recommendations on products. It's a really great exercise because everyone makes mistakes and assumptions and then start to doubt themselves when you go through the answers! There were some real light bulb moments for delegates with this. Really great exercise and would highly recommend.
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Gayle Tong
rated this item with 5 stars.
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I have used this a couple of times now and think its fab. Simple to use yet so effective. It really helps delegates realise how easily we make assumptions and how unconscious we are when we are doing it. Great to use for management programs and communication or for teambuilding. Great as an icebreaker in to so many different subjects. Not much preparation needed yet so effective
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Anjana Rajani
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Goldilocks is by far my favourite listening activity. I have used this in call handling training as well as to reception staff. It never fails to entertain the delegates, but always ticks the boxes for active listening as well as assumptions training. It always prompts a lively discussion and is ideal to use after lunch (or any other time a pick up is needed!). The only down side is that as it’s so memorable, it’s the one activity they always rave about on the evaluation forms! Thanks Glasstap for providing such fabulous material.
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Previous Member
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Fantastically effective exercise. Really makes people think about their active listening skills. Andrew Pickin, Director, Motiv8 Development Ltd.
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Andy Pickin
rated this item with 5 stars.
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What a lovely exercise. Everyone knows the Goldilocks tale and this existing knowledge really helps drive the learning points home. I’ve used it in induction courses. It served a couple of purposes – it fulfilled the aims outlined on the site, but also helped new starters to recognise that no matter what their previous experience they still have opportunities for learning new things and that they may have a black spot here and there in which they assume knowledge that they may not possess.
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Previous Member
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I’ve used this exercise extensively in customer service and sales soft skills workshops and I’ve found it really difficult to find another exercise that beats it when it comes to highlighting how we naturally make assumptions and the importance of active listening. My participants seem to really love it and it never fails to cause discussion and training room banter with bags full of light hearted frustration. No-one has ever got all the questions correct yet! A simple, yet effective exercise, I like the fact that it uses Goldilocks, a story which most of us will be aware of from childhood. I find it really easy to then link this exercise in to the types of calls that my delegates make or receive, especially the common ones where we can assume we know what it is about and how to resolve it without stopping to listen to the customer. I’ve used similar exercises in the past and have been ‘put off’ as they have sometimes caused a little too much debate. However, with this exercise, it is easy to explain the logic behind the exercise to even the most analytical delegate.
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Previous Member
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This is one of my favourite activities; I use it in my Telephone System/Call Handling training where it is very important for people to listen to what others are saying on the telephone. Reading a story to a group is fun and people make assumptions on what they have heard which means they learn a lot from the activity. This is great to use for Presentation skills, Train the Trainer, Assertiveness and Selling Skills.
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Previous Member
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I work for a small voluntary sector organisation with 5 full time and 2 part time staff. We had recently introduced customer service standards and to bring the policy alive rather than just sit on a shelf, I ran a team training morning session using Goldilocks as part of the session. Team training is a new addition to our team time together so as the newly appointed Team Leader (a change to my previous role with the organisation) I was a little apprehensive. The session started off well and discussions were really focused. When it came time to read the story of Goldilocks it at first raised a few smurks and frowns, however it went down well. Interestingly the boss only got 2 out of 12 for the quiz! His comment was - guess I wasn't really listening! Mmm really! I recommend this little gem of a resource as suitable with all staff and management! Having now used this as my first resource from Trainers' Library I certainly have confidence in using more.
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Previous Member
rated this item with 4 stars.
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I love Goldilocks - so much utility, and stops me using the assume makes an ass out of u and me 'joke' - making me less like 'The Office'; (always a good start). It nearly always creates controversy - 'Can you read that again?'. As such, what a great way to get people to listen actively, consider why people don't always 'get-it' first time, stops them tutting at each other, and maybe (just maybe) helps to improve communication by considering the ears half of the equation. It is foolproof, fast and fun.
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Phil Hawthorn
rated this item with 5 stars.
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What a simple idea and so effective. I've used it with new recruits to customer service teams and with senior managers in a local council. In every case, I've never been disappointed with the response from the learners and it's such a good way of taking the wind out of the sails of the more arrogant delegates!
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Graeme Yeates
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The Goldilocks exercise is a valuable method of demonstrating to candidates the way they make assumptions. I have used this module with both Customer Service Advisors and customer facing Production Staff as a way of testing their listening skills. By cleverly mixing a familiar story with a few challenging twists, it really stretches the short term memory and in my experience results in an up-beat atmosphere. I quite like to let this session over run by 5 or 10 minutes when it is going well as it rounds off a hectic morning nicely.
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Previous Member
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I used the Goldilocks story in some customer service training. Some of the delegates didn't listen when I read the story, as they thought they knew it (as it is a popular children's tale). However, they soon learnt what a trap that assumption is when they then couldn't correctly answer the ensuing questions. In fact some people had been quite arrogant in their assumptions intially and quickly realised that this resulted in their undoing! The key learning for them came from the fact that they should always listen to what's being said, without making assumptions or listening from their perspective, as the speaker may go off on a tangent that they didn't expect.
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Fiona West
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I have always been a great lover of story telling while training and Goldilocks listening exercise has given me the opportunity to combine a good story with a great activity. Goldilocks really stresses the message of the dangers of making assumptions, but it does that in a fun and different way which gets participants engaged and sometimes a bit fiery when discussing the answers to the questions about the story. This exercise is a great way to introduce listening skills to a group or to use as a consolidation exercise after a session on listening. Fun is guaranteed!
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Previous Member
rated this item with 4 stars.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To demonstrate the benefit of using open questions when gathering information.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 20 minutes for completion. Aims:
• To demonstrate the benefit of using open questions when gathering information. Group Size:
This module is suitable for use with groups of up to 15 participants. You'll Need:
Post its and pens.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 15 minutes.
Aims:
• To energise participants ready for the learning ahead.
• To get participants working together as a team to solve a problem.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 5-10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 15 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To energise participants ready for the learning ahead.
• To get participants working together as a team to solve a problem.
Group Size:
Can be used with groups of between of up to 25 participants.
Useful For:
Anyone.
You'll Need:
• One set of the Hexagon Shuffle Cards. (See trainer notes.)
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I recently ran this activity for the first time and it received great feedback. I would recommend reading the instructions carefully and laminating the cards beforehand so that they can be used again.
It's a short, simple activity, however when used as an icebreaker it got colleagues interacting straight away and working as a team.
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Mike Darbyshire
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To introduce participants to one another.
• To practice and test listening skills.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 20 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To introduce participants to one another.
• To practice and test listening skills.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of any size.
Useful For:
Staff at all levels.
You'll Need:
• Nothing other than the materials provided.
Notes:
A very simple but engaging icebreaker. This can be used in any situation to introduce participants, but is particularly useful where you want to focus on networking or communication skills. It’s also a very effective way to introduce the concept of experiential training in train the trainer training. Participants should be able to see that getting involved in an experience makes the learning (in this case around communication) stick in a way that they wouldn’t gain from simply being told about, for example, the benefits of summary and clarification.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 30 minutes.
Aims:
• To encourage participants to share information about themselves.
• To build rapport among participants.
• To start to identify core communication skills.
• To explore the use of the communication loop.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 25 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 30 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To encourage participants to share information about themselves.
• To build rapport among participants.
• To start to identify core communication skills.
• To explore the use of the communication loop.
Group Size:
This module is suitable for use with groups of up to 25 participants.
You'll Need:
• You might find it useful to pre-prepare a flipchart with the questions participants will be answering written on it.
Notes:
This exercise takes longer to run with larger groups.
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This is a really effective ice-breaker for the start of any training programme. I have used it many times. I particuarly use it when covering rapport in a session. Recently used in appraisal training to emphasise the need for rapport and key skills of questioning and listening. It also helps people get to know each other across an organsation where they don't usually meet.
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Clare Bell
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To get participants talking and using some of the fundamental skills of information gathering, including effective questioning and active listening.
• To identify the importance of understanding not just actions, but the motivation for actions.
• To begin to identify some key skills anyone looking to build rapport and influence needs.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 20 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To get participants talking and using some of the fundamental skills of information gathering, including effective questioning and active listening.
• To identify the importance of understanding not just actions, but the motivation for actions.
• To begin to identify some key skills anyone looking to build rapport and influence needs.
Group Size:
Suitable for use with groups of up to 12 participants.
Useful For:
Anyone.
You'll Need:
• A supply of A4 paper for each participant to show their answers to the group. (You could use a small wipe clean whiteboard or similar).
Notes:
This icebreaker is useful in any situation where you want to encourage meaningful conversations.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To test participants' communication skills.
• To demonstrate the importance of breaking complex messages down into key points.
• To illustrate the difficulties of communicating using only the voice.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to run. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 20 minutes for completion. Aims:
• To test participants' communication skills.
• To demonstrate the importance of breaking complex messages down into key points.
• To illustrate the difficulties of communicating using only the voice. Group Size:
This module is suitable for use with groups of up to 15 participants. You'll Need:
• A blindfold and a small jigsaw puzzle for each pair of participants. (24-30 piece puzzles are ideal.)
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I love this exercise! Teams do get very frustrated and competitive - but eventually (nearly always) just laugh at themselves. One of the strongest learning here is asking them why (in 99% of cases) they have the blindfolded builder have the jigsaw facing them - when it is much easier to have it put together facing you as the coach / instructor. Great at the end of a long leadership day, before breaking for the evening, I found!
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Phil Hawthorn
rated this item with 5 stars.
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I have used this exercise twice with a group of managers of mixed skills and abilities. The exercise is simple and quick, yet very powerful and the importance of communication and ensuring understanding was quickly realised by all. As well as that it was great fun. Thank you Glasstap.
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Jayne Dark
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Brilliant – if you have never used this activity give it a go! Exploring communication, team work and even motivation (I could go on), what great fun this activity is with so many amazing learning points. It has so many uses and an excellent activity when training delegates where English is not there first language. As an activity around clarity of verbal communication - it is excellent! If appropriate make it competitive as you will see some great things. All you need are some blind folds, similar jigsaws and teams of two and you have everything you need – give it a try!
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Gary Shewan
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 30 minutes.
Aims:
• To demonstrate the dangers of making assumptions about others' knowledge when communicating.
• To recognise situations where the recipient might not interpret our message in the way we intended.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing about 30 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To demonstrate the dangers of making assumptions about others' knowledge when communicating.
• To recognise situations where the recipient might not interpret our message in the way we intended.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of almost any size.
You'll Need:
• Nothing other than the materials provided.
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| A review has not been posted for this item. If you are a member of Glasstap you can submit one using the contact us screen. |
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To encourage networking.
• To illustrate that getting to know what matters to others is a great way of building rapport.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to run. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 20 minutes for completion. Aims:
• To encourage networking.
• To illustrate that getting to know what matters to others is a great way of building rapport. Group Size:
This module is suitable for use with groups of up to 24 participants. You'll Need:
Music, of your choice to play during the exercise. Notes:
Remember to ensure that you have the appropriate PRS and PPL licences to use music during training.
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| A review has not been posted for this item. If you are a member of Glasstap you can submit one using the contact us screen. |
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 15 minutes.
Aims:
• To encourage participants to share information about each other.
• To test participant's listening and recall skills.
• To briefly explore barriers to listening.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 15 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To encourage participants to share information about each other.
• To test participant's listening and recall skills.
• To briefly explore barriers to listening.
Group Size:
This module is suitable for use with groups of up to 25 participants.
You'll Need:
• Nothing other than the materials provided.
Label
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| A review has not been posted for this item. If you are a member of Glasstap you can submit one using the contact us screen. |
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To let participants get to know each other in a fun way.
• To identify what helped or hindered communication.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing about 20 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To let participants get to know each other in a fun way.
• To identify what helped or hindered communication.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of almost any size.
You'll Need:
• Nothing other than the materials provided.
Notes:
If using this exercise with very large groups it will take longer to run.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 15 minutes.
Aims:
• To explain the Rule of Three.
• To demonstrate the impact of repeating three-word slogans during presentations or training.
• To show the value of audience participation.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 15 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To explain the Rule of Three.
• To demonstrate the impact of repeating three-word slogans during presentations or training.
• To show the value of audience participation.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of up to 15 participants.
You'll Need:
• A set of buzzers will add to the competitive atmosphere but are not essential.
Label
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| A review has not been posted for this item. If you are a member of Glasstap you can submit one using the contact us screen. |
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 40 minutes.
Aims:
• To demonstrate how easily misunderstandings can occur even when we think our communication is clear.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 20 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 40 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To demonstrate how easily misunderstandings can occur even when we think our communication is clear.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of up to 25 participants.
Useful For:
Staff at all levels.
You'll Need:
• Plenty of post-it notes.
• 10 sheets of flipchart paper.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To help participants get to know each other.
• To encourage participants to think about their personal ‘brand’.
• To understand the power of images to convey messages.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing about 20 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To help participants get to know each other.
• To encourage participants to think about their personal ‘brand’.
• To understand the power of images to convey messages.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of any size.
You'll Need:
• Blank name tent cards and pens for your participants.
Notes:
If using this icebreaker in very large groups ask participants to work in small teams and introduce themselves to those team members rather than the whole group.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To encourage participants to share information about themselves.
• To test participant's knowledge of each other.
• To encourage participants to see beyond their existing perceptions of others.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 20 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To encourage participants to share information about themselves.
• To test participant's knowledge of each other.
• To encourage participants to see beyond their existing perceptions of others.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of up to 25 participants.
Useful For:
Staff at all levels.
You'll Need:
• A pen and post-it notes for each participant.
Notes:
For a similar activity, with a different approach, you might like to look at True Lies .
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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I really enjoyed watching delegates as they found out different things about their colleagues. The whole team were roaring in laughter at, not only the statements but their guesses.
I used this on another team, but swapped it round a little. I had all delegates pass tp me what their truth & lie was. I then read them all out to the team for them to guess, firstly the truth and secondly who it belonged to. This took a little longer, but it was also a great hit with the delegates.
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Tracy Windross
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To test participants communication in a fun way and identify areas for improvement.
• To consider the impact poor communication can have on performance levels.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 20 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To test participants communication in a fun way and identify areas for improvement.
• To consider the impact poor communication can have on performance levels.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of up to 25 participants.
Useful For:
Staff at all levels.
You'll Need:
• A bucket (or a bowl if space is limited).
• A timer/stopwatch.
• A flipchart to record the scores. And for each pair of participants:
• A blindfold.
• 6 soft balls (or tiddlywinks/counters if space is limited). (Each pair must have six balls/counters of the same colour.)
Notes:
If space is limited, substitute the bucket and soft balls for a bowl and tiddlywinks/counters.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 35 minutes.
Aims:
• To test participants ability to work together to solve a communication challenge.
• To encourage participants to think about communication and the importance of being able to communicate with others.
• To consider the importance of checking understanding and taking your whole team with you when change occurs.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 35 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To test participants ability to work together to solve a communication challenge.
• To encourage participants to think about communication and the importance of being able to communicate with others.
• To consider the importance of checking understanding and taking your whole team with you when change occurs.
Group Size:
Suitable for use with groups of up to 12 participants.
Useful For:
Staff of all levels.
You'll Need:
Nothing other than the materials provided.
Notes:
If using this exercise with very large groups, you will need to split participants into smaller teams.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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We had a lot of fun with the activity. It provided some competitiveness as well as bringing to life how important clear communication is. As a team, we are rarely in the same room and it opened a conversation about purposeful communication styles and methods
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Katie Hastie
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 15 minutes.
Aims:
• To explore the positive impact of assertive communication when working with others.
• To describe how communication helped or hindered their problem solving.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 5 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 15 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To explore the positive impact of assertive communication when working with others.
• To describe how communication helped or hindered their problem solving.
Group Size:
Suitable for use with groups of almost any size.
You'll Need:
• A length of rope. (We suggest around 1 metre per participant.)
• A blindfold for each participant.
Notes:
If using this exercise with very large groups, you will need volunteers to take part and the remaining participants act as observers.
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A very simple and easy icebreaker which gets people thinking about how to solve problems together and being assertive. I used this with a smaller team of 5 people and it worked just as well. It was interesting to see who takes the lead in the team at the start of a training session and good to get people up and on their feet.
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Elaine Stephens
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To encourage participants to gather information about each other.
• To illustrate the importance and benefit of open questions when gathering information.
• To illustrate the uses of closed questions.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 20 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To encourage participants to gather information about each other.
• To illustrate the importance and benefit of open questions when gathering information.
• To illustrate the uses of closed questions.
Group Size:
This module is suitable for use with groups of up to 15 participants.
You'll Need:
• Nothing other than the materials provided.
Notes:
This exercise will take longer the larger the group.
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This module can be used as a nice ‘icebreaker’ and also illustrates the benefit of appropriate questioning. I actually only used this with me as the person being questioned and two people posing questions. I then facilitated a discussion on the types of questions asked and the benefits and drawbacks of each type. It prompted a very useful session on questioning skills and really encouraged the participants to consider how best to use questions in different circumstances. We were then able to list examples of the ‘best’ questions to ask in different scenarios. Again the module is useful because it highlights the good and less good without people having to share what they currently do and because the questions asked are not work related it is easy to highlight the benefits of using different styles of question without getting into detailed discussion about the wording of a specific question.
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Previous Member
rated this item with 4 stars.
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I used this exercise on a Communication skills day with predominantly home care workers in order to demonstrate the effectiveness of 'open'questions over 'closed' questions. The group quickly grasped what was required and I ran the exercise according to the instructions. They grasped what was required quickly and were able to draw their own conclusions. Several commented on how easy it was to change their questionning style with some thought and that they would remember the point of the exercise when working with their clients. A plentiful supply of chocolate given for good open questions helped I think!
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Robert Corteen
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 15 minutes.
Aims:
• To illustrate the nature and importance of teamwork in a fun way.
• To help teams define teamwork.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 15 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To illustrate the nature and importance of teamwork in a fun way.
• To help teams define teamwork.
Group Size:
This module is suitable for use with groups of almost any size.
You'll Need:
• One ‘Bendy Person’ for each participant
• One A3 sheet of paper for each participant. (Please note that A4 is not large enough.)
Notes:
This icebreaker is based on an idea contributed by Kim Davies.
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| Reviews |
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We recently used this icebreaker to commence regular operations meetings. We wanted a short exercise to highlight the importance of working together as this had been an ongoing issue with the operations team.
We did change the exercise slightly and used miniature pots of play-doh instead of bendy people. the task was exactly the same but the individual could have either 1 or 2 miniature pots but if it was 2 they had to mix the pots together to make 1 piece. The paper had to have a min of 1 cm gap between the table and the paper all around. The play-doh could be molded into any shape.
The exercise worked really well and the point was very much made that the team needed to work together. We did have one person who wanted to continue on their own but the team sorted them out. Everyone took their play-doh away to use as a destresser. Would highly recommend this exercise for highlighting that working together achieves results.
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Stephanie Fry
rated this item with 5 stars.
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I used this on a management development programme in a workshop on 'Building the Team'. As the workshop was about teams, it didn't take them long to work it out. It did, however, clearly highlight the main point that when working together we can often achieve more. Plus, it was fun and certainly broke the ice!
I will definitely use it again.
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Rebecca Peat
rated this item with 4 stars.
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I used this one at our HR team away day as an icebreaker. The Magno Men generate a lot of conversation even before you provide the brief and the exercise itself is very simple to run. I was worried that the group would figure the task out in seconds but actually it took them just over five minutes. Lots of opportunity to debrief which we didn’t need on this occasion but I would definitely use this again in the content of team working skills. The only problem I have with this exercise is that the Magno Men are quite expensive so people would have to hand them back at the end.
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Previous Member
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I run courses in communication for multi-disciplinary cancer teams. Tried the Hair-ee Mango Men exercise not long ago with a tricky team. One surgeon persisted in trying ... alone and only after 10 minutes of failure attempted to do the task with one other member of the group. Provided me as the facilitator with an instant appraisal of the problems likely to be encountered over the next 2 days ! Thank you.
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Previous Member
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 15 minutes.
Aims:
• To help participants to understand why clear objectives and goals matter.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 15 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To help participants to understand why clear objectives and goals matter.
Group Size:
This exercise is suitable for use with groups of almost any size.
You'll Need:
• One set of Sorting Out Shape Cards per two participants.
• A stopwatch.
• A buzzer or bell to signal when their time is up.
Notes:
Filing Frenzy card packs are available to purchase – each pack contains 10 sets of the shape cards used in this activity.
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| Reviews |
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I love my Filing Frenzy cards and use them in many different ways. This activity was a new one to me recently when running a session about the importance of clear expectations to performance management. It bought the topic to life for them.
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Clare Bell
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 15 minutes.
Aims:
• To help participants to understand the limitations of electronic communication when working as a team.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 15 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To help participants to understand the limitations of electronic communication when working as a team.
Group Size:
This exercise is suitable for use with groups of 6 or more participants.
You'll Need:
• 1 set of Sorting Out Shape Cards and 3 envelopes per team of 3 participants.
• Every participant needs to use a mobile phone during the exercise.
• A stopwatch.
Filing Frenzy card packs are available to purchase - each pack contains 10 sets of the shape cards used in this activity.
Notes:
This exercise works best with break out spaces, but it’s not essential as long as you have space to separate the 3 sets of players.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To identify the things that we have in common with the rest of the group.
• Explain how finding connections can help to break down barriers and build relationships more quickly.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 20 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To identify the things that we have in common with the rest of the group.
• Explain how finding connections can help to break down barriers and build relationships more quickly.
Group Size:
Can be used with groups of up to 24 participants.
Useful For:
Staff at all levels.
You'll Need:
• Nothing other than the materials provided.
Notes:
This is a great exercise to get people talking and identify how we can all connect quickly and easily. The activity can be run with very large groups, but you would need to increase the timings.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this icebreaker available in Trainers’ Library.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 30 minutes.
Aims:
• To explore the important role summary and clarification play in ensuring information is received and recorded accurately.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 20 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 30 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To explore the important role summary and clarification play in ensuring information is received and recorded accurately.
Group Size:
Can be used with groups of up to 25 participants.
Useful For:
Anyone.
You'll Need:
• Nothing other than the materials provided.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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| Reviews |
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 10 minutes.
Aims:
• To show the importance of giving information visually as well as orally.
• To demonstrate how different people will interpret the same information differently.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 5 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 10 minutes to complete this module.
Aims:
• To show the importance of giving information visually as well as orally.
• To demonstrate how different people will interpret the same information differently.
Group Size:
This module is suitable for use with groups of almost any size.
You'll Need:
• Two sheets of A4 paper for each participant (and for you too).
Notes:
We’d like to thank Mick Duncan of CWT-Chamber Training for contributing the idea for this exercise.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 25 minutes.
Aims:
• To test participant’s problem-solving skills.
• To explore the different behaviours employed when solving problems.
• To identify how these behaviours can impact team performance.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 25 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To test participant’s problem-solving skills.
• To explore the different behaviours employed when solving problems.
• To identify how these behaviours can impact team performance.
Group Size:
This icebreaker can be used with groups of up to 25 participants.
Useful For:
Anyone.
You'll Need:
• One Puzzle Star and set of letters for every team in play.
• To cut out the missing letters for each of the Puzzle Stars required and place each set in an envelope (or similar).
• A small prize for the winning team (optional).
Notes:
This icebreaker works best when participants are split into teams of 2 or 3. It is fine for different teams to have the same puzzle. There is another module which uses the same activity as this but in a different way. This icebreaker focuses on Problem Solving skills, whereas the other is a course module, ‘Letters Get Better’, which focuses on Continuous Improvement.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 25 minutes.
Aims:
• To encourage participants to consider the difference between good and bad customer service.
• To reflect on the impact good and bad customer service has on other customers.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 25 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To encourage participants to consider the difference between good and bad customer service.
• To reflect on the impact good and bad customer service has on other customers.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of up to 25 participants.
Useful For:
Staff at all levels, especially those in a customer-facing role.
You'll Need:
• Nothing other than the materials provided.
Notes:
This exercise can be run as a stand-alone session or you can follow it up with LACE – Handling Unhappy Customers .
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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| Reviews |
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This is such an engaging and thought provoking activity. It is brief but really impactful and went down really well in a customer service workshop I was running. The scenario is realistic and highlights the complexity of different stakeholders, which working for a regulator dealing with complaints, is something we see regularly with stakeholders who hold varying opinions. Participants in the workshop were engaged and enjoyed this interactive ice breaker, opening their eyes to the importance of empathetic engagement, especially in an era where negative experiences can quickly escalate on social media, causing reputational harm. The key takeaway is that customer service is more than just 'the customer is always right' but about being able to truly empathise with different stakeholders and make them feel understood. This was the theme and message of my training session on how colleagues can support complainants in their roles, and those being complained about, without taking sides. So, it set the scene perfectly for the rest of the session. Thank you!
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Tom Eustice
rated this item with 5 stars.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To introduce participants in a fun way.
• To encourage people to think about how we communicate nonverbally.
• To encourage participants to begin to think about the important role of body language, tone and pitch in communication.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 20 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To introduce participants in a fun way.
• To encourage people to think about how we communicate nonverbally.
• To encourage participants to begin to think about the important role of body language, tone and pitch in communication.
Group Size:
Suitable for use with groups of up to 15 participants. (The activity can be used with larger groups, but you will need to allow more time.)
You'll Need:
• To ask participants in advance of the training to share one unusual fact about themselves.
Notes:
Based on the UK gameshow ‘Would I Lie to You?’, this is a fun way to introduce any training, but is particularly appropriate as an introduction around training linked to communication and body language. It can even be used to introduce equality and diversity training as it provides a way to make the point that there is more to people than we see on the surface and for participants to make assumptions about others in the group.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 25 minutes.
Aims:
• To reflect on how effective communication relies on more than words.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 10 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 25 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To reflect on how effective communication relies on more than words.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of almost any size.
Useful For:
Anyone.
You'll Need:
• A flipchart and a set of coloured flipchart pens (see the image in the Handout for the required colours to include in the set of pens).
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To help participants identify the values of the other participants.
• To understand the importance of questioning and listening to understand others.
• To get to know the other participants and build rapport.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 15 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 20 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To help participants identify the values of the other participants.
• To understand the importance of questioning and listening to understand others.
• To get to know the other participants and build rapport.
Group Size:
Suitable for use with groups of almost any size.
You'll Need:
• A small box or other container.
Notes:
This exercise works equally well for groups that know each other and those who have never met before.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 15 minutes.
Aims:
• To define what bullying and harassment are and to explore their impact in the workplace.
About
Time:
This exercise will take about 5 minutes to complete. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing 15 minutes for completion.
Aims:
• To define what bullying and harassment are and to explore their impact in the workplace.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of almost any size.
Useful For:
Anyone.
You'll Need:
• To prepare flipcharts containing ACAS’ definitions of bullying and of harassment if you don’t wish to use the PowerPoint slides provided.
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Time:
In total we estimate this exercise will take 20 minutes.
Aims:
• To demonstrate the difference effective feedback can make to someone’s performance.
About
Time:
The exercise in this module can be completed in about 10 minutes. In total, allowing for discussion, we recommend allowing about 20 minutes for this module.
Aims:
• To demonstrate the difference effective feedback can make to someone’s performance.
Group Size:
This module can be used with groups of up to 25 participants. Ideally, you'll have at least 4 participants though, so that you can demonstrate the 4 types of feedback described.
Useful For:
Anyone who needs to give or receive feedback.
You'll Need:
• Nothing other than the materials provided.
Notes:
This is a great way to demonstrate the difference it can make when feedback is given effectively. During the role-play element it is advisable to select with care the people who will be receiving the different types of feedback. It is also advisable to explain clearly at the start of the exercise that it will involve you role-playing different types of feedback.
Remote/Virtual Delivery:
There is a Remote Delivery version of this module available in Trainers’ Library.
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I have used this activity regularly where i want people to understand the importance of giving constructive feedback, it is a fun activity which helps break my session up as i am discussing a serious topic overall; it just allows delegates to understand it well from a different concept. It is definitely important to ensure you pick the right person to receive the negative feedback- i always explain to the person (not the whole group) that i need to use roleplay and are they ok with me being negative towards them- they don't know the concept of the exercise but i think its best to pre-warn the person.
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Alison Lawrence
rated this item with 5 stars.
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I have used this exercise a few times in training sessions on coaching and running 1-1 reviews. The role play element is quite fun to do but as the notes say you do need to pick your "victims" with care. Having examples of "feedback" to discuss makes it much easier and involving individuals from the group allows you to focus on how they felt about the feedback. On the whole, a fun exercise to open a session about giving feedback.
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Lisa Lester
rated this item with 5 stars.
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