Building Deeper Connections with Jan Keck’s Human Search Engine Activity

Jan Keck, an experienced facilitator and creator of the “Ice Melters” framework, is passionate about replacing small talk with deep, meaningful conversations. His innovative approach to connection has resonated with people worldwide, helping them build trust and understanding in both personal and professional settings. 

In the recent Covve Connection Crew workshop, Jan introduced “The Human Search Engine,” an engaging activity that encourages participants to explore each other’s experiences and stories through curiosity and active listening.

The Human Search Engine Activity

This activity is a fun and effective way to practice asking thoughtful questions and engaging in deeper conversations. It’s perfect for team-building exercises, social gatherings, or even one-on-one interactions, offering a unique way to connect on a more meaningful level.

Step-by-Step Guide to Practicing at Home or Work

1. Set the Scene:
   • Create an open and welcoming environment where participants feel safe to share personal stories. If you’re in a group, ensure everyone is seated comfortably and can see each other.
2. Introduction to the Activity:
   • Explain the purpose of the activity: to explore each other’s experiences by asking imaginative and open-ended questions.
   • Jan’s Tip: “We’re going to explore each other’s stories by being curious. This isn’t about getting the ‘right’ answer but about discovering something new about the other person.”
3. Instructions for the Activity:
   • Pair up participants. The person who smiles first becomes the “Googler,” and the other person acts as the “Human Search Engine.”
   • The “Googler” asks a question starting with, “If I were to Google you and [insert topic], what would I find?”
   • The “Search Engine” responds with a story, memory, or insight related to the topic.
   • Encourage “double-clicking” by asking follow-up questions to delve deeper into the story.
4. Practice in Pairs:
   • Allow each participant five minutes to be the “Googler” and five minutes to be the “Search Engine.”
   • Example Prompt: “If I were to Google you and ‘courage,’ what would I find?”
5. Debrief and Sharing:
   • After the session, regroup and invite participants to share any surprising or meaningful discoveries they made during the activity.

Jan Keck’s work has revolutionized the way people approach conversations. By encouraging the use of deep, meaningful questions, he helps individuals and teams move beyond surface-level interactions to build genuine connections. 

His “Human Search Engine” activity is a testament to his belief that every conversation holds the potential for discovery and understanding. Through his workshops and his forthcoming book, Jan continues to inspire others to connect authentically, making a significant impact in the field of human connection.