IDEO

IDEO - Conversation Starters

Interviews can stall in small talk. This exercise helps you move past that. Start real conversations and gain deeper insights from your interviewees.

Duration
45 mins
Group Size
4-8
Category
IDEO
Difficulty
Easy
Energy
Medium

Objectives

You will craft better questions. You will also improve your conversation skills. The goal: gather richer insights from interviews.

Outcomes


  • Conversation starter prompts.

  • Icebreakers to boost engagement.

  • Higher quality discussions.

Step-by-Step Instructions


  1. Prepare open-ended questions. Avoid questions that can be answered with a simple yes or no.

  2. Ask about specific stories and experiences. Focus on concrete examples instead of generalities.

  3. Use "why" and "how" questions. This will help you understand motivations and processes.

  4. Create a comfortable environment. Put the interviewee at ease before diving into deeper topics.

  5. Practice active listening. Pay attention to both what is said and what is implied.

  6. Follow up with clarifying questions. Pursue interesting threads that emerge during the conversation.

Unlock Step-by-Step Instructions

Join 2,500+ facilitators who use Workshopr to plan better workshops — free during beta.

Facilitator Tips

Build rapport before asking tough questions. Preparation is key, but stay flexible during the interview. Sometimes, the best insights come from unexpected places.

Pre-Work

For Facilitators

  • Review participant profiles and expectations
  • Prepare all materials and supplies
  • Test technology and room setup

For Participants

  • Complete pre-session survey
  • Review background materials
  • Prepare examples or case studies

Unlock Pre-Work Requirements

Join 2,500+ facilitators who use Workshopr to plan better workshops — free during beta.

Materials Required


  • Interview guide.

  • Recording device.

  • Notebook.

Unlock Materials Required

Join 2,500+ facilitators who use Workshopr to plan better workshops — free during beta.

Resources & Templates

Design Kit - Methods
IDEO Design Kit collection of human-centered design methods.

Unlock Resources & Templates

Join 2,500+ facilitators who use Workshopr to plan better workshops — free during beta.

Discussion

0/2000
Loading comments...

Related Exercises

See all exercises

IDEO - Brainstorm Rules

5 mins

This exercise, inspired by the LUMA collection and IDEO.org, focuses on generating numerous ideas through collaboration and embracing unconventional s...

Ideo

IDEO - Capabilities Quicksheet

1 hour

You've developed a solid solution. What will it take to implement it? Your current team might not be enough. This exercise helps you assess what you h...

Ideo

IDEO - Integrate Feedback And Iterate

1.5 hours

Incorporating user feedback is key to human-centered design. This exercise helps you refine ideas based on prototype testing. It's part of the LUMA co...

Ideo

Empathy Interviews

40 mins

Empathy interviews uncover user needs through one-on-one conversations. Focus on stories, not opinions. Ask "why" to go deeper. Observe body language ...

Research

Impact & Effort Matrix

30 mins

Prioritize ideas and tasks by mapping them on a 2x2 matrix. This framework clarifies the potential impact versus the effort needed. Identify quick win...

Strategy