Roleplay Scenario
Scenario Overview
You've just joined a new project team with folks from product, design, and engineering. Your first task is to introduce yourself effectively, understand everyone's roles, and start building strong working relationships. This kickoff meeting is your chance to set a friendly and cooperative tone.
Roles & Setup
Role A – New Team Member (You)
You’re excited to join the team and ready to contribute.
Your goal: Introduce yourself, get to know the team, and set a friendly, collaborative vibe.
Role B – Product Manager
You lead the product strategy and are keen on aligning everyone toward the project goals.
Your goal: Share the big picture and see how the new member can help.
Role C – Designer
You’re focused on the user experience and want to ensure everyone’s on the same page about design.
Your goal: Talk about design priorities and explore collaboration ideas.
Role D – Engineer
You handle the technical side of things and want to ensure everything is technically feasible.
Your goal: Discuss any technical challenges and how the new member can help out.
Suggested Openers
New Team Member:
- “Hi everyone! I’m [Your Name]. I’m really excited to join the team as [Your Position]. Looking forward to working with all of you and contributing to our goals.”
- “Hello! I’m new here and eager to get started. Could we go around and share a bit about what everyone’s working on?”
Product Manager:
- “Welcome aboard! I’m [Name], your PM. Let’s talk about our product vision and how you can fit into the team.”
- “Great to have you! I’d love to align on our main objectives and see how your skills can help us out.”
Designer:
- “Hi there! I’m [Name], handling the design. Our focus is on [design goals], and I’m excited to hear your thoughts.”
- “Welcome! Let’s chat about how we can make the design process smoother with your input.”
Engineer:
- “Hey! I’m [Name], in charge of the tech stuff. Let’s talk about how you can help us tackle some challenges.”
- “Welcome! I’d love to fill you in on our tech stack and what we’re working on.”
Sample Roleplay in Action
New Team Member:
“Hi everyone! I’m [Your Name] and I’m thrilled to be here as [Your Position]. My background is in [Your Expertise], and I’m eager to contribute. Can we go around and share what everyone’s currently focused on?”
Product Manager:
“Welcome, [Your Name]! I’m [PM Name], and I lead the product direction. We’re focusing on [Project Goal]. Your skills will be a big asset for [Specific Objective].”
Designer:
“Hi [Your Name]! I’m [Designer Name], and I’m all about making sure our users have a great experience. Let’s brainstorm how we can incorporate your insights into our designs.”
Engineer:
“Hey [Your Name]! I’m [Engineer Name], and I handle the tech details. We’re dealing with [Technical Challenge], and I’m looking forward to working through these with your help.”
New Team Member:
“Thanks for the warm welcome! I’m excited to dive into both the technical and design aspects. Let’s set up regular check-ins to make sure we’re all aligned. I’m ready to get started!”
Product Manager:
“That sounds great. Let’s plan a meeting soon to go over our roadmap and your contributions in more detail.”
Designer:
“Perfect! I’ll send you some of our current design work. Let’s get your input as soon as you’re ready.”
Engineer:
“Great! I’ll arrange a session to go over our tech stack and challenges in more detail.”
Post-Scenario Tools
Curveball Mode (Optional)
Introduce one of these scenarios to add complexity:
- A team member is worried about overlapping responsibilities.
- Someone needs clarification on the project’s primary goals.
- A key stakeholder unexpectedly joins the meeting, changing the dynamic.
Reflection Checklist
As the New Team Member:
- Did you introduce yourself clearly and positively?
- Did you show you’re open to collaborating and learning?
- Did you ask questions to understand the team better?
As the Existing Team Members:
- Did you explain your roles and responsibilities clearly?
- Did you make the new member feel welcome and ready to collaborate?
- Did you provide clear context about the project’s current state?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Giving too much or too little information about yourself initially.
- Not asking questions that show interest in the team’s work.
- Failing to set up future meetings to deepen collaboration.
Pro Tip
Building rapport from the start can greatly impact how you work together. Show genuine interest in your colleagues’ roles, and be proactive in keeping the communication channels open.