Name swap mixer
People introduce each other and take the other person's name. Continue until you meet your own name and the you sit down.
by Erica MarxGoal
get names in the air
break tension around learning names
Instructions
Demo:
Go up to someone:
A: Hi, I'm Erica!
B: Hi Erica, I'm Bob
A: Nice to meet you, Bob!
B: Nice to meet you, Erica!
Now players part with swapped names. ie. Bob will introduce himself as Erica to the next person. Every time you introduce yourself you leave with a new name. Your individual play continues until you meet your own name.
Play this with the students. You can speed up the end by using the name you have and finding the person with that name so they can sit down. Most players don't figure out this is how it works so it's simply chaos. Be prepared to ring a bell to end the game and applaud the confusion.
Debrief:
What was it like when you were not sure? What happened to your connection with another person?
Highlight: Look, you called someone by the wrong name, it's okay!
Author
I help teams connect, collaborate, and perform at their best in both virtual and in-person environments. As an executive and leadership coach, I design highly engaging experiences where people can think together, navigate challenges, and strengthen the way they work. With a background in leadership coaching, facilitation, and applied improvisation, I create interactive retreats, conferences, and networking events that energize participants and create lasting impact. My work creates the conditions for psychological safety, honest communication, and deep collaboration, allowing teams to build trust, navigate challenges, and achieve meaningful results together. I am deeply committed to mission-driven organizations. As a board member of the International Applied Improvisation Network, I partner with nonprofit and social justice leaders to help their teams thrive in fast-changing environments.
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