NewsUC&C23 Feb 2023 · 3 min read

Donut for Zoom Helps Break the Ice During Video Calls

Donut for Zoom adds icebreaker prompts in Zoom Marketplace, helping hybrid teams build trust and collaboration during video calls. Published on UC Today.

Ryan Smith

Donut has released its Donut for Zoom app which is designed to add a personal layer to conversations over video calls.

The app, which is available via the Zoom Marketplace, allows users to share real-time icebreaker prompts about a range of different topics, such as favourite meals or "would you rather" questions.

The Donut app aims to get organic conversations flowing amongst coworkers in the hybrid workplace so they can get to know each other on a more personal level.

Dan Manian, Co-Founder and Donut CEO, commented: "A tool so pervasive it’s become a verb, Zoom has quickly evolved into a workplace staple with millions of people ‘Zooming’ into meetings each day.

"To deepen the impact of these meetings, foster mission-critical connection among teammates, and elevate morale, Donut is excited to announce a major collaboration platform expansion and a partnership with Zoom.

"Our new Donut for Zoom app allows users to share real-time icebreaker prompts within video calls, adding a personal layer to conversations.

"With topics ranging from favourite meals to 'would you rathers', Donut gets organic conversations flowing effortlessly, allowing coworkers to get to know each other as people.

"The app gives companies the tools to prioritize camaraderie and collaboration in the course of daily business, enabling greater idea sharing and quality of work."

According to Donut, the app was inspired by the company's desire to help hybrid workforces foster a better connection with each other via the platforms and channels that they were already working on.

The company states that it has already helped over 20,000 teams on Slack build stronger relationships.

The Donut for Zoom app will prompt users to ask icebreaker questions, such as the following:

What advice would you give to your 10-year-old self?
What’s the best thing you’ve eaten recently?
What is your most-used emoji?
What’s your favourite movie soundtrack?
In the past week, what’s something that made you laugh or smile?
What’s a hobby or activity you’ve picked up in the last couple of months?

Question topics that are available within Donut for Zoom include the following and more:

Food.
TV and movies.
Working from home.
Music.
"Would you rather".

These question topics ensure there are plenty of discussion topics so that all voices within the workforce are heard and contributing to the conversation.

Manian added: "Deeper connection drives productivity and efficiency In the distributed work age, one of the biggest barriers to productivity is the lack of connection between colleagues.

"More than ever, a unified team with effective communication skills (whether in-person, hybrid or remote) is essential to achieve core business goals.

"While remote work has many benefits, virtual meetings can create unintentional hurdles for participation.

"Introverted employees may find it challenging to jump in and share their thoughts, while those who aren’t physically in a conference room may feel disengaged. Donut’s Zoom app creates a level playing field for all participants.

"Our lighthearted prompts are an easy way into the kinds of authentic conversations that build trust while inspiring collaboration and creativity."

Donut for Zoom also allows users to customise their own prompts so the questions can be tailored to the unique needs of their teams.

The application allows users to display questions and prompts within their Zoom window, meaning that users don't need to share an additional screen during meetings.

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