@Jocarnail @TwistedFox I really like this approach—having the group formed or with knowledge of one another—as it makes for a smoother start but still with room for differing personalities.

One thing I have started doing is telling the players what the call to adventure will be. “There’s a job notice to meet at a shady bar and deliver a shady package to a shady place. Build a character that would answer the call.”
#ttrpg