One-Minute Introduction

Purpose

The One-Minute Introduction ensures every participant gets equal airtime for a structured self-introduction. By enforcing a strict one-minute limit, it prevents long-winded introductions, keeps energy high, and ensures quiet participants get the same space as outspoken ones. It works best with a guiding prompt.

At a glance

• Group size: 6–25
• Duration: 15 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Facilitation style: Facilitator-timed rounds
• Setting: In-person or virtual

How to run

1. Share the prompt: "In one minute, share your name, your role, and one thing you hope to get from today's session."
2. Set a visible timer for 60 seconds.
3. Go around the group. When the timer rings, gently move to the next person.
4. Thank each person after their turn.
5. At the end, briefly acknowledge any common themes.

Materials needed

• Visible timer or countdown display

Pitfalls & common mistakes

• Not enforcing the time limit: If one person goes to 3 minutes, everyone will. Be kind but firm.
• Boring prompt: "Name and role" alone is flat. Add a personal or creative element.
• No warm-up: Let the facilitator go first to model the format.
• Too many participants: Beyond 25, the round takes too long. Split into smaller groups.

Inclusion & accessibility

• Virtual-friendly with timer screen-shared.
• For participants who find speaking stressful, offer the option to share via chat.
• Keep the prompt simple for non-native speakers.
• No physical activity required.

Variations

• 30-second version: Halve the time for larger groups or simpler prompts.
• Image talk intro: Show one personal photo while introducing yourself.
• Pair introduction: Partners interview each other and introduce the other person.

When NOT to use this

• In groups larger than 25 without splitting — it takes too long.
• When participants already know each other well and introductions are unnecessary.
• If the strict timer feels too pressuring for the group culture.

Source & further reading

• A facilitation standard used across industries.
• Inspired by timed speaking formats like Lightning Talks and 20×20 image talks.