Beyond the Bio

Questions? Contact Faculty & Staff Assistance Program

Overview

Beyond the Bio is a casual and uplifting team-building experience designed to cultivate connection, spark empathy, and bring joy to your team. Inspired by the spirit of show-and-tell, participants are invited to share a meaningful object in a relaxed, supportive environment.

This engaging activity offers a refreshing pause from the day-to-day routine and encourages deeper understanding among colleagues. At its core, Beyond the Bio helps nurture a culture of authenticity, curiosity, and connection within the workplace. 

Instructions

Step1

Initiating the Process

  1. Introduce the Activity
    Let your team know you're considering hosting a Beyond the Bio session and gauge their interest and availability. Briefly explain the goal: to foster connection through the sharing of meaningful personal objects in a relaxed setting.
  2. Select a Time
    Ask the group how much time they’d like to dedicate—this could range from a quick 10-minute check-in to a longer 45-minute session. Consider scheduling more than one session to allow different team members to participate at their own pace.
  3. Prepare the Team
    A few days before the session, invite participants to bring a meaningful object to share.

To provide context and help them prepare, consider sending a short overview of Beyond the Bio—including the purpose, structure, and tone of the activity.

Step2

Defining What to Share

  1. What Is Beyond the Bio?
    Beyond the Bio is an interactive opportunity for employees to share a meaningful object, photo, or brief story that offers a glimpse into who they are beyond their work role. The goal is to spark connection and conversation.
  2. Choosing an Item
    Items can range from sentimental keepsakes and childhood memorabilia to hobby-related objects or something that brings daily joy.
    • Items should be workplace-appropriate.
    • Sharing doesn’t need to be deeply personal—light, humorous, or quirky items are welcome too.
  3. Presentation Format
    Each participant will have a set amount of time (typically 3–5 minutes) to present their item and share why it matters to them.
  4. Add Variety with Themes (Optional)
    Consider adding playful or reflective themes such as:
    • “A sentimental gift”
    • “A random item I can’t live without”
    • “An object that represents a life lesson”

Step3

The Sharing Circle

  1. Create a Warm and Welcoming Atmosphere
    Whether the gathering is in person or virtual, aim to foster a space that feels safe, relaxed, and inclusive.
    • Consider elements that enhance comfort—such as light snacks, warm lighting, or soft background music.
    • Encourage a spirit of openness and attentive listening.
  2. Sharing and Storytelling
    Invite each participant to take a few minutes to share their item and its significance.
    • Guiding questions may include:
      • “What makes this item meaningful to you?”
      • “Is there a memory or story connected to it?”
    • If appropriate, allow time for gentle dialogue—participants can ask questions or reflect on shared experiences.
  3. Foster Inclusion and Respect
    Reinforce that this is a space where everyone’s voice matters. The goal is not performance, but connection.
    • Affirm that all types of contributions—whether heartfelt, humorous, or simple—are welcome and valued.

Step4

Post-Activity Connection

Take a moment to share appreciation or reflect on what stood out to you during the activity.