Rapport building

Definition

Rapport building is the process of establishing a positive and trusting relationship between an interviewer and the subject, which facilitates open communication and a more effective exchange of information. This connection is crucial for creating a comfortable environment where subjects feel at ease to share their thoughts and experiences, especially in sensitive situations. When done well, rapport building enhances the quality of interviews by promoting honesty and engagement from the subject.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Building rapport can begin before the interview starts, with small talk or casual conversation to help the subject feel more comfortable.
2. Trust is a key component of rapport; subjects are more likely to open up if they feel they can trust the interviewer.
3. Different interviewing styles can affect rapport; a more relaxed and conversational approach often yields better results than a rigid or formal style.
4. Cultural differences can impact how rapport is built; understanding a subject's background can lead to more effective communication.
5. Maintaining eye contact and using affirming body language are essential techniques in reinforcing rapport during an interview.

Review Questions

• How does rapport building influence the quality of information gathered during sports interviews?
  • Rapport building significantly influences the quality of information gathered during sports interviews because it establishes trust and comfort between the interviewer and the subject. When subjects feel at ease, they are more likely to share candid thoughts and experiences, leading to richer content. This relationship allows for deeper insights and encourages subjects to discuss topics that may be sensitive or complex.
• Discuss the various techniques that can enhance rapport building in challenging interview situations.
  • In challenging interview situations, techniques such as active listening, displaying empathy, and employing appropriate nonverbal communication can greatly enhance rapport building. By actively engaging with the subject's words and emotions, interviewers can create a supportive atmosphere that fosters openness. Additionally, adapting one's tone and body language to match the subject's demeanor helps in easing tension and establishing a connection.
• Evaluate how effective rapport building can change the dynamic of an interview with a high-profile athlete dealing with controversy.
  • Effective rapport building can drastically change the dynamic of an interview with a high-profile athlete dealing with controversy by transforming a potentially confrontational exchange into a more constructive dialogue. When an interviewer successfully establishes trust, the athlete may feel safer discussing their feelings about the situation honestly. This openness not only leads to a more engaging story but also allows for a deeper exploration of the underlying issues, ultimately benefiting both the subject's narrative and the audience's understanding.

Related terms

Empathy:

The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person, which helps to create a supportive atmosphere during interviews.

Active Listening: The practice of fully concentrating on what is being said rather than just passively hearing the message, which helps to build rapport by showing genuine interest.

Nonverbal Communication: The use of body language, facial expressions, and other nonverbal cues to convey messages, which plays a key role in establishing rapport.