When you’re in a fast-paced and high-demand career like nursing, meeting new people might not always feel like a top priority—at the end of the day, you’re at your new assignment to offer your high-quality skillset to your colleagues and patients. However, making a good impression at your assignment is just as important to ensure that the transition goes as smoothly as possible. Not only will it make you feel more comfortable in your new setting, it will produce a better working relationship with colleagues around you.
To make these first encounters easier, Freedom suggests using icebreakers. Don’t worry—ice breakers don’t have to be cheesy or awkward. Think of them as providing a framework for starting a conversation that feels more natural and can organically develop into a conversation.
Start with these 6 icebreakers to when you meet someone new:
1.) How long have you been working at this facility? Have you always been in this specific role?
Okay, this is technically two ice breakers combined, but is a great way to learn about the professional experience and backgrounds of your new colleagues. Plus, it can easily dovetail into a conversation that feels natural.
2.) What are your favorite things to do in the area?
Whether you’re new to the area or not, asking this question sheds some light on an individual’s personal interests and hobbies. If you do happen to be new to the area, you’ll have recommendations of fun activities to partake in!
3.) What are three fun things about yourself that you would like for me to know?
“Tell me about yourself” can be a pretty broad question—oftentimes, we don’t know where to start! Not only will it be easy enough for another person to list off three things that you can learn about them, but it perfectly sets them up to return the favor and ask the same question about you (so be prepared with your own answer).
4.) I’m looking for a new book to read—are there any you would recommend?
Asking someone about what they’re reading/watching/listening to is always an easy go-to when getting to know someone new.
5.) What is your family like?
If who you’re meeting is having a tough time talking about themselves, they may find it easier to talk about the people they love and care about. Asking about one’s family can help make the conversation less superficial and more personal.
6.) I love to travel. What’s the best trip you’ve ever taken and why?
We know traveling is one of your passions—why not ask about the travels of others? If anything, it could provide you with some great inspiration for your next adventure! (And if they love traveling as much as you and excel at their job, why not refer them to Freedom Healthcare Staffing and take advantage of our Referral Rewards program.)
To read our latest blogs about adjusting to your new assignment, start with these!