How well do you get along with those you work with? Is this something you would like to improve? Rapport is all about building positive, meaningful relationships with others.
In work life, rapport helps develop vital skills such as communication and teamwork. It also helps reduce conflict. It can also make your work more enjoyable, increasing your job satisfaction. But how do you build rapport?
Indeed and Seek provide tips on how to build rapport.
When is a good time to build rapport?
Of course, you can build rapport by interacting with colleagues in the workplace. However, there are also other ways to build rapport. Networking events provide the perfect opportunity to meet new people.
A job interview also provides a great opportunity to build rapport with your interviewer.
How to build rapport
Make a good first impression
When you first meet someone, introduce yourself clearly and confidently. To make yourself memorable, include an interesting fact about yourself.
Practice active listening
When someone is speaking to you, give them your full attention. Try to minimise distractions and avoid multi-tasking. Maintain eye contact and use your body language to indicate you are listening to what they are saying.
Be friendly
Always treat others with respect. Offer to help them when you can. For example, hold doors open for them or offer to assist if they are struggling with a task at work.
Ask open-ended questions
Asking open-ended questions in conversations encourages others to open up, rather than simply providing one-word answers. Doing so will help enhance the flow of conversation.
Be genuine and authentic
Build relationships that are genuine, not just about getting something out of a person. Try to be your authentic self whenever possible. People appreciate those who stay true to themselves. When you are genuine, people are more likely to trust you and will feel more comfortable opening up to you.
Use positive body language
Be welcoming, smile and use eye contact. This will make the other person feel as comfortable as possible.
Discover common interests
Having something in common with another person can help build a connection. It’s OK to ask colleagues questions unrelated to the workplace. Consider asking them questions about their personal lives when appropriate. Do they have any hobbies? Which sports teams do they follow? Of course, ensure you initiate these discussions at the right time, not when you are rushing to meet an important deadline.
Show empathy
It is essential to see the world from others point of view. By being empathetic to others, you can help build positive relationships.
Speak equally
Ensure you are part of and contribute to conversations. However, try not to dominate conversations and make sure others are part of them as well.
Remember details
Try to remember people’s names and job titles. If a colleague has told you about a hobby or interest of theirs, ask them about it another time.
It’s OK if you struggle
Remember, building rapport isn’t always easy and takes time and effort. Some people will be easier to build a relationship with than others. You will always be closer to some colleagues than others, and that’s OK.
Are you looking for a new job?
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