Group Resume

Creating a group resume is a fun way to help team members build better rapport and appreciate each other’s qualities and experiences. Group resume can be used as either an ice breaker exercise or as a quick team builder. This activity can be especially effective if the resume is focused on a specific subject matter linked to the training workshop, meeting or project. 

Resources: Flip chart paper and markers
Space required: Small. Indoors or outdoors.
Group Size: 6 to 16 people (divided into smaller sub-groups)

Total Time: 25-35 minutes

• 5 minutes to brief and set up
• 10-15 minutes for group resume activity
• 5-10 minutes to present resumes
• 5 minutes to review and debrief

Group Resume Ice Breaker Instructions

Introduce the exercise by telling the group that they represent a different array of talent and experiences. Discuss with the group the importance of having different personalities and characters in the group and how this can benefit everybody.

Explain that one way to identify these talents and experiences to create a team resume. Working in smaller sub-groups they will create a combined resume and then present this back to the rest of the group. At the end of the exercise we will take some time to look back and discuss these resumes.

Divide the group into smaller sub-groups (3-6 people per group). Provide each sub-group with a piece of flipchart paper and some markers. Allocate approximately 10-15 minutes to discuss the exercise and for groups to create their resumes.

Each sub-group resume should include any information that promotes the group as a whole and their talents. Try to get the group to be creative in terms of information they present and the layout of the resume. They should try to include some of the following information:

• Educational background
• Professional experience
• Professional skills and qualification
• Major achievements
• Hobbies, travel, family or anything else

Once all groups have created a resume, let each group in turn present their resume.

After the exercise, take some time debrief and review. Ensure you acknowledge the combined resources for the entire team and get them to start thinking about how they can best use these skills.

Suggested Learning Outcomes

• Trust
• Communication (verbal, non-verbal and listening)
• Cooperation
• Goal setting

Questions for debrief and review:

• What did we learn from this exercise?
• Why was it important to identify the groups skill set?
• How can we use the skills and experiences we have on the project or back in the workplace?
• Are there any noticeable skill gaps? How can we develop these skills or how can we draw on an outside source?
• Is there anything that surprised you? If yes, what was it?
• Did you learn anything about yourself?
• Following on from the exercise are there any goals we can set to help us progress?