Rapport building

Definition

Rapport building is the process of establishing a positive and trusting relationship between an interviewer and their subject, which is essential for effective communication. It involves creating a comfortable environment where subjects feel valued and understood, encouraging them to share more openly. A strong rapport fosters a sense of connection that can lead to more in-depth conversations and better insights during interviews.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Building rapport can significantly improve the quality of information obtained during an interview by making the subject feel at ease.
2. Using open-ended questions and showing genuine interest are key techniques for establishing rapport with interview subjects.
3. Nonverbal cues such as maintaining eye contact and an open body posture contribute to effective rapport building.
4. Creating a friendly atmosphere and finding common ground can help break down barriers and foster trust between the interviewer and the subject.
5. Strong rapport can lead to unexpected insights or deeper responses from interviewees, enhancing the overall interviewing experience.

Review Questions

• How does rapport building enhance the quality of information gathered during interviews?
  • Rapport building enhances the quality of information gathered during interviews by creating a comfortable and trusting environment for the subject. When interviewees feel at ease and respected, they are more likely to share personal stories or insights that might not come out otherwise. This openness can lead to richer content and a deeper understanding of the subject matter being discussed.
• What specific techniques can be employed to effectively build rapport with interview subjects?
  • Techniques to build rapport include using active listening skills, maintaining appropriate eye contact, and employing open-ended questions. Demonstrating genuine interest in the subject's responses encourages a two-way conversation that fosters connection. Additionally, finding common ground or shared experiences can help bridge gaps and enhance mutual understanding.
• Evaluate the importance of nonverbal communication in the process of rapport building during interviews.
  • Nonverbal communication plays a critical role in rapport building because it often conveys emotions and intentions more powerfully than words. Positive body language, such as leaning slightly forward or nodding in agreement, can signal engagement and interest. Conversely, negative nonverbal cues may create barriers to trust. Therefore, being aware of one's own nonverbal signals and interpreting those of the interviewee is essential for establishing a strong rapport.

Related terms

Active Listening:

A communication technique that involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what the other person is saying.

Nonverbal Communication: The transmission of messages or signals through nonverbal means, such as body language, gestures, facial expressions, and tone of voice.

Empathy: The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person, which is crucial in creating rapport and trust during interviews.