What was your first job—or first line of code?
Go around the (virtual) room with a quick humanizing fact. Keep answers to twenty seconds each.
How to use it
Offer both prompts so non-engineers can participate fully.
Model vulnerability first as facilitator—it sets tone more than any instruction slide.
Use a timer; the value is breadth, not storytelling depth.
Retrospective boards that pair well
Once people have spoken personally, structured classic retros help focus the group on process.
Went Well - To Improve - Action Items
The classic three-column retro: celebrate wins, name improvements, and leave with concrete next steps.
Start - Stop - Continue
Balance momentum and discipline by deciding what to add, drop, and keep doing.
4Ls Retrospective
Liked, learned, lacked, and longed for—structured reflection that surfaces both positives and gaps.