Here’s an icebreaker I’ve developed that I’ve been using a lot in my work at XPLANE.  I call it the somewhat generic “Building Your Robot,” but I think “Giving Yourself a Robotomy” has a nicer ring.  Here’s how it works:

1. Ask people to write down a list of the skills, attributes and talents they possess that make them great at what they do.
2. Put up several easel-sized Post-It notes around the room (one for each person), and draw a different abstract shape on each one.
3. After each person has completed their skill/talent list, give each a marker, and direct them to one of the easel-sized Post-Its.
4. Tell them they have to create, from the abstract shape, a Robot that could do their job.  It should include something to represent each of the items on their list.
5. Make them name their Robot.  Something like the Mattinatron 3007
   
6. Make them sign their name to their work of art.
7. After everyone is finished, have everyone take turns introducing their own personal Robot.

I’ve found this icebreaker has several benefits.  First, everyone gets up and draws something, without being intimidated by a big blank piece of paper.  Second, they are committed to the exercise when they begin writing down their skills before realizing they’ll later be asked to visually depict them.  Third, they aren’t asked to draw something real.  Everybody can draw a robot.  Finally, when they “introduce” their Robots, they give a really insightful look into what they view as their unique talents and skills.