It's a while since a client "introduced" our trainers to the training cohort.  We prefer, and our clients usually prefer, to do it ourselves. But last week  one of our guys had the drum roll. On and on went the introduction, delivered in a monotone voice with the "introducer" reading from a script - and looking down. A variant on this last year from a client was such a powerful drum roll about me that even I wondered "is that me?".Lol.

Has this ever happened to you? And more importantly, what about that opening moment with introductions all round the room? Many participants tell us again and again they dread the "creeping death" that comes around the table as they answer bog standard questions about what they do, why they're here etc etc. It's obviously important to know about those in front of you. But over the years  we've adopted a few different and user friendly ways to secure critical information:-

1. Table talk - breaking the cohort into smaller groups(3/4) around tables.Let them tell each other who they are and what they do. Give them the option of appointing a spokesperson to present a summary or any other format they are happy about.Capture key information and data on the flip chart

2. Hit the ground running - give people post it notes as they arrive.Get them to put the information you need on the notes. Assemble a montage of them.Speak about to the group once formally assembled and invite anyone to chip in.Some will.

3.Coupling the introductions with one of the many "ice breaker" games that are so readily available. I've seen "bingo", "treasure hunts" and mini "chat show" formats.

And of course, advance planning means you should know about the different personal and technical needs that people might bring to the room. And of course as the day progresses your own efforts and interactive sessions will help create a safe, comfortable and convivial environment.

Have you abandoned the drum roll? What have you put in its place?