How to Improve Rapport
Rapport is a form of neuro-linguistic programming that builds empathetic understanding and clear communication between two parties. While you may not agree with a co-worker on their views and opinions, having a good rapport with someone means that you trust one another and each understand where the other person is coming from. Building and improving rapport is especially important in business relationships, as deals often depend on the rapport between the parties involved. Observation and consideration are two important tools for those who want to improve rapport.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Find common ground between yourself and your colleagues. While you may be a dog person and your co-worker may cover her cubicle with cat memorabilia, the commonality is that you are both animal lovers. Engage her in conversations about local humane societies, wacky pet stories or the trials of sharing a small house with a pet. If a co-worker roots for one football team and you for his hated rival, focus instead on your general love for the game. Highlighting the things that unite you with those around you improves rapport, which in turn helps you build closer professional relationships with your coworkers.
-
2
Mirror the body language of those around you. If someone angles their body toward you when speaking, angle yours towards her. When meeting a new client for coffee, subtly adjust your body to match their position. If they lean back in their seat with their leg crossed over one knee, do one or the other to mimic their posture. When we see two things that match physically, we instinctively believe that they go together. Be discerning, however, in how you mimic body posture and movements; some positions may be the result of an accident or a disability and will be offensive to the person if your mirror them.
-
-
3
Listen to what is said and how it is communicated. While listening attentively to what someone is saying is an important rapport-building skill, it is equally important to pick up on the other messages being communicated. Someone who speaks softly and carefully might be overwhelmed if you respond loudly and rapidly. If your colleague speaks quickly and forcefully, they may see you as weak and tentative if you respond quietly. Pay attention to non-verbal communication as well -- someone who is gesturing expansively as they speak may find that your folded hands indicate inflexibility and a lack of excitement. Incorporating these details into your own communication builds rapport and communicates that you are on the same level with your colleagues and clients.
-
4
Be sincere and considerate. Take a moment to ask colleagues about their health or their family at least once a week. Ask your colleagues if they are comfortable or could use a cup of coffee before starting your meeting. Write thank you notes -- not emails or phone calls -- to co-workers who help you with a project, or to new clients whose business you appreciate. Being empathetic improves rapport, and establishes connections within your business community that sustain lasting relationships.
-
1
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
