If I Were A...: Creative Metaphor Icebreaker
4.8(479)
A lighthearted game that explores personalities through creative comparisons.
3+ PlayersHybrid10 minEasy
How to Play This Icebreaker Game
- 1The facilitator asks a series of 'If you were a...' questions.
- 2Examples: 'If you were a type of food, what would you be?', 'If you were a car?', 'If you were a musical instrument?'.
- 3Go around the circle and have each person give their answer and a brief reason why.
- 4It's a fun, abstract way to learn how people see themselves.
Variations
- Work Style Edition: 'If you were a project management tool', 'If you were a meeting type', 'If you were a workspace'.
- Rapid Fire: Go through 3–4 prompts quickly with one-word answers, then pick one to expand on.
- Team Guess: One person gives their answer; others guess who it is before they reveal.
Facilitator Guide
Opening Script:
Answer a few ‘If you were a…’ prompts with a one‑liner why. Keep it light; we’re exploring metaphors, not biographies.
Closing Script:
What values surfaced from your metaphors? Capture one word you want teammates to remember about working with you.
Why This Works
Why this icebreaker game works: Metaphor lets people share identity safely and quickly. It invites humor while revealing preferences and strengths.
Best For
Ideal icebreaker situations for this game include:
- Onboarding
- New team kickoffs
- Hybrid standups
Important Notes
- Use inclusive, neutral prompts
- Allow passes; no pressure to explain deeply
- Model brief answers to keep tempo
Game FAQ
How do we keep answers from being generic?
Ask for specifics: not just 'pizza' but 'pepperoni pizza from that corner shop'. Details create connection.
What makes a good 'If I were...' prompt?
Neutral categories everyone can relate to: weather, season, vehicle, app, snack, time of day.
