Mia Lim

For icebreakers to be effective in building critical thinking and problem solving skills, I make sure to define three things: objectives, parameters, and resources. This is a parallel to using critical thinking in real life, where they would need to apply these skills while working within objectives, parameters and limited resources of their own work context.

I often use games to get participants to guess key concepts before they are introduced. That way, participants have time to reflect and use context clues to take a stab at understanding the concept before it's fully explained to them.

The key considerations I have for choosing an ice breaker would be: - What are the learning objectives at this point in the program? How can the icebreaker support or introduce that learning objective? - How do I optimize the energy levels in the room at this point in the program? For example, if it's after lunch, I will choose a more active ice breaker to help keep participants from feeling sleepy - How much time and space do we have for the icebreaker?

Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are built by activating neural pathways and bridging seemingly unrelated concepts. Ice breakers can be a good way to get people to suspend their preconceived notions, be more open minded, and speak to other participants that they would otherwise not get to interact with. This helps put the brain into a state that supports the activation of neural networks.

Your thank-you note after a networking chat should be personalized. Include 1-2 key takeaways that were valuable to you. End with a specific ask: maybe to be introduced to someone else in their network, or to give feedback on a work sample/pitch you might have, etc. Commit to reaching out again in the near future.

Network outreach emails should include the following information: - A bit about who you are and how you found their contact information, establishing a connection. - 1-2 things you know about their profile that interests you - 1 thing you would love to learn more about Also: Nobody wants a message that says "I would like a job at your company", but most people would love to talk about themselves.