Hot Seat: The Ultimate Get-to-Know-You Game
A fast-paced question game where one person takes the "hot seat" and answers rapid-fire questions from the group. Perfect for building deeper connections.
3+ PlayersHybrid10 minEasy
How to Play This Icebreaker Game
- 1Select one person to sit in the "Hot Seat".
- 2Set a timer for 2 minutes (or any desired duration).
- 3Other players take turns asking rapid-fire questions to the person in the Hot Seat.
- 4The person in the Hot Seat must answer as quickly and honestly as possible.
- 5When the timer ends, switch the person in the Hot Seat.
Materials Needed
- A chair (for in-person)
- Timer (phone or stopwatch)
Variations
- Themed Hot Seat: All questions must be related to a specific topic (e.g., career, childhood, food).
- Guess Who: The person in the Hot Seat answers questions as if they were a famous character, and others guess who it is.
Facilitator Guide
Opening Script:
Who's brave enough to take the Hot Seat? You'll have 2 minutes to answer as many questions as we can throw at you. Be honest, be fast!
Closing Script:
Let's give a round of applause for our Hot Seat survivors! Did we learn anything surprising?
Why This Works
Why this icebreaker game works: It encourages vulnerability and quick thinking, allowing team members to learn unique facts about each other in a short time.
Best For
Ideal icebreaker situations for this game include:
- Team bonding
- Getting to know new hires
- High-energy warm-ups
Important Notes
- Ensure questions remain respectful and appropriate for work.
- Allow the person in the Hot Seat to "pass" if they are uncomfortable.
Ideas & Prompts
More QuestionsFun & Light
What's your favorite pizza topping?
If you could be any animal, what would you be?
Morning bird or night owl?
Coffee or tea?
What's the last movie you watched?
Deep & Thoughtful
What's the best advice you've ever received?
What's one thing on your bucket list?
Who is your role model?
What is a skill you'd love to learn?
What are you most grateful for today?
Work & Career
What was your first job?
What's your favorite productivity hack?
Remote work or office?
What's the best project you've worked on?
How do you handle stress?
Game FAQ
What if someone doesn't want to answer?
Encourage a 'Pass' rule where they can skip up to 2 questions.
How do we keep it work-appropriate?
Set ground rules beforehand about avoiding overly personal or controversial topics.
