40 Good Icebreakers for the Interview

Being nervous before an interview is a common thing, especially if you want to create a good impression right away. Using a conversation icebreaker to start can help calm interviewees' initial nervousness and create a nice atmosphere throughout. So, let’s check out 40 powerful icebreakers for meetings to use during your interview to establish a more personal connection and start a productive conversation.

40 Powerful Icebreakers for Your Interview

1. Comment on a Shared Interest - Mention any specific interests you have in common with the interviewer if your research indicates they have them as well. As an illustration of ice breaker activities for work, "I saw on LinkedIn that we both like [hobby]. Have you recently had a lot of time for it?"
2. Express Gratitude - Express gratitude for the chance to participate in the interview. "Thank you for meeting with me today and for your time," "I've been eagerly anticipating our discussion" can work wonders.
3. Comment on the Company's Achievements - Complement anything new and noteworthy about the company - office ice breakers. "I was really pleased by your newest product introduction, which I read about in [source]. It must be an exciting moment to be a team member here."
4. Ask About Their Role - Be sincere in your interest in the interviewer's position inside the organization. "I would love to hear more about what you do here and what led you to this position."
5. Mention a Mutual Connection - Mention any shared connections you may have. "Jane Doe, who I worked with at [Previous Company], speaks very highly of the team here."
6. Discuss the Office or Virtual Setting - If the interview is remote, say something nice about the virtual arrangement or the office meeting setting. "The environment at your office is very lively and imaginative. It has to be an amazing place to work."
7. Talk About a Recent Industry Event - Bring up any recent relevant events that happened in your sector. "Have you been to the most recent [Industry Event]? The conversation about [subject] struck me as being really wise."
8. Ask for Opinions on a Current Trend - This demonstrates your expertise and interest in current business trends. "I have been keeping up with [industry-specific trend] trends. What do you think it will do to the industry?"
9. Compliment the Company Culture - Take a good view of the corporate culture. The organization truly appeals to me because of its emphasis on sustainability and innovation. “In what ways do these values impact the day-to-day work that is done here?”
10. Inquire About Team Dynamics - Being aware of team dynamics may be very important. “Could you elaborate on the nature of the team I would be working with? I can't wait to find out how the team works together."
11. Discuss a Common Experience - If you know the interviewer attended the same school or program, mention it. "I saw that you also attended [University]; wasn’t Professor Smith’s class just incredible?"
12. Share a Relevant Personal Anecdote - If suitable, briefly describe a personal experience that is related to the position or business. "I first became interested in this field when..."
13. Ask About Company Growth - Express interest in the company’s future. "With all the recent growth here, where do you see the company in the next few years?"
14. Mention a Company Award or Recognition - Congratulate them on recent recognitions. "Congratulations on being named [Award]; that must have been a great honor for everyone here."
15. Express Enthusiasm for the Opportunity - Show your passion for the job. "I’ve been really looking forward to discussing how I can contribute to your team, especially with my background in..."
16. Ask About the Interviewer’s Experience - Gain insights into their experiences at the company. "What has been your favorite project to work on here?"
17. Talk About a Hobby or Interest - Try to discuss a hobby or interest briefly. "Outside of work, I’m really passionate about [Hobby]. Do you have any hobbies?"
18. Inquire About the Company’s Community Involvement - Show your interest in more than just the bottom line. "I admire how the company engages with the community. Could you tell me more about your current initiatives?"
19. Discuss a Company Project - Express interest in a specific project the company is known for. "I read about [Project] recently. Could you share more about its development?"
20. Ask About Their Day - Simple and polite, this can lighten the mood. "How has your day been so far?"
21. Reference Recent Company News - To demonstrate your attention and awareness, bring up a recent and pertinent business development. "I read about your recent expansion into the European market. It must be an exciting time for the company."
22. Ask About Work-Life Balance - It's one of the great getting to know you icebreakers. This shows that you care about the company culture and your potential quality of life. "How do you find the work-life balance here? I understand it’s something the company prides itself on."
23. Inquire About the Interviewer’s Career Path - Understanding their journey can provide insights into your potential career trajectory. "I’d love to know more about your career path. How did you get to your current position?"
24. Discuss Their Leadership Style - If you’re speaking with someone who would be your manager, ask about their style. "Can you describe your individual leadership style and how it influences the team?"
25. Mention Recent Technological Advances - For tech-related roles, this can showcase your knowledge. "How is the recent advancement in [specific technology] impacting your projects here?"
26. Ask About Their Challenges - This might show that you're interested in addressing problems. "What are some of the biggest challenges the team has faced recently, and how have you overcome them?"
27. Discuss the Industry’s Future - Show that you’re thinking long-term. "Where do you see the biggest changes in our industry over the next few years?"
28. Ask About Training and Development - And about your commitment to growth - ice breaker questions for work. "What kind of training and development opportunities does the company offer?"
29. Inquire About the Company's Competitive Edge - Knowing what makes them unique will help you match your responses to their principles if you decide to go with one of these ice breakers for work. "What do you believe is the company’s biggest competitive advantage in the industry?"
30. Ask About Their Best Memories - This can lighten the mood and add a personal touch. "What’s your best memory from working here?"
31. Discuss the Team’s Recent Accomplishments - Acknowledge the team's successes. "I was impressed to hear about the team’s project on [Project Detail]. Could you share more about the journey?"
32. Inquire About Office Traditions - How about internal office traditions? Another good ice breaker activity for adults. "Are there any office traditions that you think someone new should look forward to?"
33. Ask About the Next Company Event - This can show your eagerness to integrate. "Is there a company event coming up that you’re particularly looking forward to?"
34. Discuss a Relevant Podcast or Book - If it’s industry-related, this can be a great talking point. "Have you read [Book Name] or listened to [Podcast]? I found it really insightful regarding [Topic]."
35. Inquire About Innovation - Understand how they innovate within the industry. "What role does innovation play in your team’s approach to projects?"
36. Ask About the Office Environment - To get a feel of where you might work. "How would you describe the day-to-day office environment?"
37. Mention a Mutual Acquaintance - If appropriate, bring up any mutual acquaintances. "I believe you know [Mutual Acquaintance]; they mentioned you were fantastic to work with."
38. Discuss Recent News - Be aware of current events related to the industry or company. "What do you think about the recent [Industry News]? How do you think it will affect our sector?"
39. Ask About Their Motivation - To understand what drives them. "What’s been the most rewarding aspect of your career here?"
40. Share Your Excitement - End on a high note by expressing your excitement again. "I’m really excited about the opportunity to contribute to the team and learn more about [Company]."