First Impressions Who Am I Activity

In many of my workshops, I’ve started with an activity that I created a few years ago from an idea I had when preparing for a personal branding workshop. I’ve then developed further and used for various workshops on topics like (neuro)diversity and inclusion, networking and even just as an icebreaker.

Usually participants have never met me before. I give them a post it note, and a pen (preferably a thick marker) and ask them to use one word to describe me.

First, they have one minute (timed) to think about it.

I explain there is no right or wrong and I will give them no further details beyond my name. They can use their first impressions of how I look, sound, and can also use their devices to search me if they choose.

Then, when the minute is up, I either ask for volunteers or point to participants and ask them to share. I then respond to the “label” that they have given me…sometimes sticking it on my head if I’m “happy” to wear the label or putting it aside if not.

The goal of this activity is to slow down the split second decisions we are always making about others. Using myself as the “guinea pig” to give them some insights behind the “truth” of that label, it gives me a chance to uncover and respond to thoughts. We also usually discuss the fact that even when I ask them to be honest and share their first thought, often that may not be seen as “acceptable”.

In various posts here, I’ve shared the post it notes, and thought it would be interesting to also start to gather them all here in one post. Below is the start to this….

Leiden University, 29 April 2025