Say What
The Ultimate Workplace Communication Game
Do your employees freeze up, lash out, or shut down when conversations get tense?
Say What turns those awkward, emotional moments into a high-energy training experience that builds confidence, emotional intelligence, and the ability to actually respond productively in real time.
Game Summary
Say What simulates workplace tension in a way that’s safe, fun, and transformative. Players race to identify types of communication (Criticism, Question, Declaration, Command), match appropriate responses, and craft thoughtful replies even when emotions are high or words are hard to find.
Think of it as psychological dodgeball meets conflict resolution with cards.
Training Objective
Communication training doesn’t stick when it’s passive. That’s why Say What is designed as a three-round, gamified learning experience that helps participants recognize statement types, respond under pressure, and navigate real-life awkward moments—all while laughing, learning, and leveling up.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the session, participants will:
- Distinguish between Criticism, Questions, Declarations, and Commands.
- Respond calmly and constructively to challenging or emotionally charged statements.
- Use pivot tools (Awkward Pause Moment Cards) to continue conversations without escalation.
- Practice self-awareness, empathy, and real-time adaptability.
- Leave with muscle memory for better communication in tough moments.
Gameplay Format & Flow
Team Size: 2-10 players
Time: 60 minutes
Why This Game Works
Ideal Audience
- Emotionally Safe Practice: Players rehearse conflict in a controlled environment.
- Immediate Feedback: The group or facilitator evaluates response quality in real time.
- Repetition Builds Retention: Recognition and response cycles across three rounds reinforce skills.
- Real-Life Application: Players personalize dialogue in Round 3 for deeper mastery.
- People Managers: Help them navigate conflict without triggering defensiveness.
- Teams in Transition or Tension: Improve trust, clarity, and empathy.
- HR & L&D Leaders: Add a fresh, fun tool to your interpersonal skills toolkit.
- Emerging Leaders: Build communication fundamentals before bad habits take root.
On-site Game Facilitating
Our team brings the game to your workplace, trains your people, and ensures skill transfer through live coaching and group debriefs.
Purchase & Facilitate
Prefer to run the training yourself? Purchase Say What as a downloadable package and use it anytime you want no licenses or limits.
Ready to escape boring training and level
up your culture?
Fill out the form below and we will be in touch!
