2 Min Read

I remember the excitement of coming home from school and scanning the house for the perfect item to bring for show and tell. The assignment, of course, was simple: share something that mattered to you.

It turns out that show and tell isn’t just for kindergartners. It’s a fantastic activity for teams. It’s low-stakes, requires little preparation, and almost instantly helps build deeper relationships.

When I use it with teams, I ask people to bring something meaningful to them. That’s it. No complicated instructions. Most people know what they’re comfortable sharing, and the activity flows naturally.

If you’ve never tried this with your team—or it’s been a while—here are a few basics:

Set up the space so people are comfortable.

Keep time short—2 to 5 minutes per person. For some, 2 minutes feels long; for others, 5 is just right.

Respect confidentiality. What’s shared stays in the room unless the person gives permission otherwise.

Go first. Modeling helps the group understand the tone and expectations.

Prepare for emotion. If the sharing leans more vulnerable, tissues can be a thoughtful touch.

Skip the applause. I like to suggest snaps instead—it keeps things supportive but not performative.

I always close by encouraging team members to follow up with a question or comment to someone about what they shared. That’s where the connection deepens.

It’s such a simple activity, but the impact is real. Teams begin to see each other with more complexity. They learn about one another’s values, challenges, and wins—without forcing anyone too far outside their comfort zone, because each person chooses what to share.

Your role as a leader? Listen. Really listen. And then follow up later with curiosity about what someone shared.

Show and tell builds trust and vulnerability in a way that’s accessible, human, and entirely on your team’s terms.

Steve

Who else misses carpet squares? ✋