🦸 Role and Superpower

How to Play

Role and Superpower is a structured introduction format that helps new hires introduce themselves with clarity and confidence. Instead of the vague 'Tell us about yourself,' each person shares two specific things: their role (what they work on) and one practical strength (a real skill they bring, like 'I am good at organizing information' or 'I can help with data questions'). The format is intentionally simple and professional — no performative 'superhero' theatrics required. The name 'superpower' is used playfully, but the actual sharing is grounded in real workplace strengths.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Explain the format: each person shares their role and one practical strength.
2. Go first as the facilitator to model the expected tone. Keep it brief and professional.
3. Each person takes 30-60 seconds to share. No one is required to elaborate beyond what they are comfortable with.
4. After everyone shares, thank the group and note that these introductions are a reference for future collaboration.
5. Optionally, document the strengths in a shared team resource so people know who to go to for help.

Tips for Hosts

• Model a practical, grounded strength. 'I am good at finding answers in documentation' sets a better tone than 'I am a productivity ninja.'
• Emphasize that this is not a test. No one is expected to have a polished elevator pitch.
• If someone struggles, offer a gentle prompt: 'What do people usually come to you for help with?'
• Keep it brief. Thirty to sixty seconds per person is plenty.

Best Use Cases

• New hire orientation: A more structured and useful alternative to unstructured introductions.
• Team kickoffs: Helps existing team members rediscover each other's strengths.
• Cross-functional projects: Quickly establish who brings what to a new initiative.
• Remote team building: Especially valuable when team members cannot observe each other working in person.

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