Open a Session · Meet & Connect · Energize
Strong Opinion Roll Call
Pair your name and role with one confidently held opinion about something that does not matter.
Time3–4 minutes
Group size4+ people
FormatTable groups
MaterialsNone
What this accomplishes
A low-stakes opinion replaces the standard name-and-title recitation. The harmless disagreement gives tablemates a memorable detail and an easy point of entry.
- Make introductions memorable
- Practice low-stakes disagreement
Before you begin
Materials
- None
Preparation
- Display a visible timer
- Plan to hear no more than two table reports
What to say
“Here is the ask. You will work only with your table, the timer will stay visible, and passing is always fine.”
How to run it
- 1
Give two or three examples of opinions that genuinely do not matter.
- 2
Each person shares their name, role or site, and one harmless strong opinion.
- 3
Allow exactly one delighted rebuttal per table.
- 4
Ask two tables for their most evenly split issue.
Prompts to use
The correct room temperature
The best meeting snack
Paper planner or digital calendar
The superior writing utensil
Whether pineapple belongs on pizza
Adapt it to the room
Small group
Use one table and let everyone contribute; skip the room report.
Large group
Run the activity simultaneously at tables of four to six, then hear only two brief reports.
Virtual
Use breakout rooms of four to six, broadcast the prompt and timer, and collect one response in chat when rooms close.
Accessibility & inclusion
- Keep participation seated by default.
- Display and read the prompt aloud.
- Allow anyone to pass, write, or contribute through a tablemate.
Debrief, if useful
Which name will be easier to remember now—and why?
Why it works—and what can go wrong
Why it works
A playful, inconsequential stance creates energy and distinctiveness without raising the stakes of disagreement.
Watch out for
- Ban political, religious, identity-based, health, and workplace-policy topics.
- Keep rebuttals playful and brief.