Three Things in Common: 50+ Icebreaker Prompts
A quick team bonding game: Find 3 non-obvious things in common within small groups. Includes 50+ conversation starters. Perfect for breaking the ice and building real connections.
How to Play This Icebreaker Game
How to Play: Interactive Guide
- 1Divide everyone into smaller groups of 3-4 people.
- 2Challenge each group to find three things they all have in common, excluding obvious things like 'we work here'.
- 3Give them 5-10 minutes to chat.
- 4Bring everyone back to the main group and have each breakout room share their three commonalities.
Variations
- Speed Version: 3-minute timer to find three things—creates urgency and fast bonding.
- Theme Constraint: 'Three things about your weekend' or 'three work tools you all use'.
- Competitive Mode: Teams race to find the most unique commonalities—winning team presents.
Facilitator Guide
Opening Script:
In groups of 3–4, find three non‑obvious commonalities. Skip surface items like ‘we work here’. Be concrete.
Closing Script:
What prompts uncovered deeper overlaps? Save them for future intros or buddy programs.
Why This Works
Why this icebreaker game works: Guided discovery of uncommon overlaps builds belonging fast. The constraint nudges beyond small talk into meaningful specifics.
Best For
Ideal icebreaker situations for this game include:
- Onboarding cohorts
- Cross‑team mixers
- Breakout sessions
Important Notes
- Define ‘non‑obvious’ up front
- Rotate a note‑taker so all voices are heard
- Allow skips to maintain comfort
Ideas & Prompts
More QuestionsQuick Discovery Prompts
Work & Career Topics
Deeper Connection Topics
Fun & Lighthearted
Game FAQ
What if we can't find anything in common?
Don't give up! Use our list of 50+ prompts. The best connections are often hidden in details like "loves cilantro" or "afraid of spiders."
What counts as "non-obvious"?
Skip visible things (hair color) or known facts (we work here). Dig deeper into hobbies, childhood memories, or weird habits.
How to play virtually?
Use Breakout Rooms in Zoom or Teams. Groups of 3-4 work best. Bring everyone back to share their most surprising match.
