70 Icebreaker Interview Questions to Spark Connection

Interviews can feel like high-stakes situations—for both the candidate and the interviewer.

That’s where icebreakers come in. A well-placed question can lighten the mood, build rapport, and set the tone for a productive conversation.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to use icebreaker questions effectively and provide 70 options to get you started.

Mastering the Art of the Icebreaker

An effective icebreaker can dissolve tension and pave the way for authentic dialogue. However, like any tool, they need to be used wisely.

Here’s how to make your icebreakers count:

1. Keep it legal: Avoid questions that could risk discrimination or breach legal guidelines.

1. Stay inclusive: Choose questions that resonate universally, like “What’s a hobby you’ve recently enjoyed?”

1. Adapt to the context: Whether virtual or in-person, tailor your questions. For remote interviews, asking about a candidate’s home workspace is engaging and relevant.

1. Remember their purpose: Icebreakers set a positive tone—they aren’t a basis for evaluating the candidate.

Icebreaker Categories to Consider

Here’s a breakdown of questions by theme to keep your interviews dynamic and engaging:

Hobbies Questions

Hobbies offer insight into a candidate’s passions and personality. Try these:

1. What’s your favorite way to spend free time?

1. Have you picked up any new hobbies recently?

1. How has your favorite pastime influenced your personal or professional life?

1. Do you prefer solo hobbies or group activities?

1. What’s a hobby you’ve always wanted to try?

Fun Questions

Inject some humor and creativity with these:

1. If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be?

1. What’s your go-to karaoke song?

1. If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be?

1. Describe your dream vacation.

1. If you could master any skill instantly, what would it be?

Personality Questions

Dive deeper into a candidate’s personal story:

1. What’s a book or movie that’s had a big impact on you?

1. If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you’d do?

1. What personal accomplishment are you most proud of?

1. How do you like to unwind after a long day?

1. What three words best describe you?

Location-Based Questions

Explore the candidate’s connection to places:

1. What’s your favorite thing about your current city?

1. Have you ever relocated for work?

1. What’s a cultural or regional trait you appreciate most?

1. If you could work anywhere, where would it be?

1. How do you explore a new city?

Travel Questions

Tap into travel memories and aspirations:

1. If you could visit anywhere, where would you go?

1. What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned while traveling?

1. Do you thrive in familiar surroundings or love exploring the unknown?

1. What’s your favorite type of scenery—mountains, beaches, cities?

1. What’s a travel memory you’ll never forget?

Routine Questions

Shift focus to the everyday:

1. What’s your morning routine?

1. How do you relax after a long day?

1. Do you have any daily rituals you can’t skip?

1. What’s a small habit that keeps you feeling accomplished?

1. Do you prefer structured routines or spontaneous days?

Simplify Hiring Workflows with Simply

Interviews are more than just questions—they’re about uncovering the right fit. But keeping track of the conversation? That’s where Simply comes in.

At Simply, we don’t just document—we transform your hiring process. Our AI-powered platform makes managing recruitment seamless by automating workflows, so you can focus on finding the perfect candidate.

Here’s how Simply makes hiring easier:
-Smart Documentation: Automatically capture and organize key insights, so nothing gets lost in translation.Resume converter: convert any candidate resume in your own fully branded resume within seconds.

-Seamless Integration: Easily add all data in your ATS/CRM system like Salesforce or MySolution.

-Hire smarter, not harder. Let Simply streamline your recruitment process from start to finish. Ready to upgrade your workflow? Make Simply your go-to hiring solution today.