Never Have I Ever (SFW): Workplace Icebreaker
A safe-for-work version of the classic game where players discover shared (and not-so-shared) experiences.
How to Play This Icebreaker Game
- 1Everyone holds up ten fingers.
- 2Taking turns, each person says something they have never done, starting with 'Never have I ever...'.
- 3If someone in the group *has* done that thing, they must put one finger down.
- 4The game continues until only one person has fingers left up, or for a set number of rounds.
Variations
- Reverse Mode: 'Always Have I...' to share common experiences instead of rare ones.
- Category Rounds: Stick to themes like 'travel', 'food', or 'work' to keep it focused.
- Points Twist: Last person with fingers up wins a small prize or gets to pick the next game.
Facilitator Guide
Opening Script:
We’ll play a workplace-friendly version of Never Have I Ever. Keep prompts light and inclusive—no politics, no pry. You can always say 'pass'.
Closing Script:
Great round! Notice how small personal stories help us spot surprising overlaps without oversharing.
Why This Works
Why this icebreaker game works: The simple mechanic exposes shared experiences in a low-pressure way. Boundaries and a clear 'SFW' frame maintain psychological safety.
Best For
Ideal icebreaker situations for this game include:
- New teams learning about each other
- Casual socials
- Hybrid meetings
Important Notes
- Ban sensitive or potentially shaming topics (e.g., health, finances).
- Offer 'pass' and model it as acceptable.
- Timebox turns to keep energy up.
Game FAQ
How do we keep it work-appropriate?
Set clear ground rules upfront: no health, finances, relationships, or politics. Model safe examples first.
What if someone feels left out?
Rotate who goes first and encourage inclusive prompts that many can relate to.
