Three-Word Interview
Describe yourself in three words, then partner interviews you about those words - quick depth.
8-15 min
4-30 people
low
None needed
About This Game
Three-Word Interview combines constraint with storytelling. Each person picks three words that describe themselves. Then in pairs, partners interview each other: "Why did you choose this word? Tell me more about that." The constraint makes selection meaningful, interviews create connection.
Objectives
- Practice concise self-description
- Build 1:1 connections
- Develop active listening skills
- Create meaningful conversations quickly
How to Run This Game
Facilitator Script:
"Think of THREE words that describe you right now - could be your personality, your role, your current state, your values. Just three! Take 2 minutes to think. I'll share mine: Curious, Energetic, Cat-Person."
Actions:
- Give clear prompt: three words to describe yourself
- Give 2-3 minutes thinking time
- Share your own as example
- Encourage: pick meaningful words
Tips:
- • Can be nouns, adjectives, or short phrases
- • Write them down
- • Think hard - only 3!
Facilitator Script:
"Now pair up! Person A shares their three words. Person B interviews them for 3 minutes: 'Why did you pick that word? Tell me more!' Then switch. Go!"
Actions:
- Pair people up
- Set timer: 3 minutes per person
- Person A shares, B interviews
- Switch roles after 3 minutes
- Give time warnings
Tips:
- • Good interview questions: Why that word? When did you realize this about yourself? How does that show up?
- • Encourage follow-up questions
- • Quiet time for active listening
Facilitator Script:
"Who wants to introduce their partner? Share one interesting thing you learned."
Actions:
- Return to full group
- Partners introduce each other (optional)
- Share interesting discoveries
- Note common themes
Tips:
- • For large groups: skip this step or small groups only
- • Celebrate variety of words chosen
Facilitator Tips
- Quick but creates depth
- Works great for new teams or retreats
- The interviews are where magic happens
- Variation: Three words about your year/hopes/journey
Common Challenges & Solutions
Variations & Adaptations
Describe your year (or last 6 months) in three words
Three words about your work style or professional identity
teams have used this game