Check-In Questions
Check-in questions are a simple yet powerful way to start a meeting or project by creating a space for participants to share their current state and connect with each other. This practice fosters psychological safety and sets a collaborative tone for the session.
Use this method at the beginning of any meeting or project kickoff to help participants become present, build rapport, and align their focus on the task at hand.
Solves: Lack of initial engagement, unfocused participants, or a sense of disconnect within the group.
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Step 1: Introduce the check-in and explain its purpose (2 minutes).
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Step 2: Frame the time constraint (e.g., one word, one sentence) to manage the check-in duration (1 minute).
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Step 3: Select a relevant check-in question based on the group's stage and desired mood (2 minutes).
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Step 4: Invite each participant to answer the question briefly and respectfully (variable time, depending on group size and time constraint).
- Prepare a few check-in questions in advance to suit different situations.
- Be mindful of the time and gently guide participants to keep their answers concise.
- Participate yourself to model vulnerability and encourage openness.
- Use visual prompts instead of questions (e.g., ask participants to choose an image that represents their mood).
- Do a silent check-in where participants write their answers on sticky notes and then share them.