Developing rapport

Definition

Developing rapport refers to the process of building a trusting and understanding relationship with someone, which is essential during interviews to facilitate open communication. When rapport is established, the interviewee is more likely to share valuable insights and feel comfortable discussing sensitive topics. This connection can lead to more genuine responses, making the interview more effective and enriching for both the interviewer and the interviewee.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Building rapport starts before the interview by doing background research on the interviewee to find common ground or shared interests.
2. The initial moments of an interview are critical for establishing rapport; small talk or casual conversation can break the ice and create a more relaxed atmosphere.
3. Maintaining eye contact and using open body language helps convey genuine interest and respect, which strengthens rapport.
4. Using the interviewee's name during the conversation can foster a sense of familiarity and connection.
5. Rapport can enhance the quality of responses received, as people are more likely to be honest and open when they feel a sense of trust with the interviewer.

Review Questions

• How does developing rapport influence the quality of responses obtained during an interview?
  • Developing rapport significantly influences the quality of responses during an interview because it fosters an environment where the interviewee feels comfortable sharing information. When trust is established, individuals are more likely to provide candid answers, discuss their thoughts freely, and open up about sensitive topics. This openness leads to richer content and more insightful conversations, allowing for deeper exploration of the subject matter.
• Discuss the techniques that can be employed to develop rapport with an interviewee before and during an interview.
  • To develop rapport with an interviewee, one can employ various techniques both before and during the interview. Beforehand, researching the individual's background can reveal common interests or experiences that can serve as conversation starters. During the interview, utilizing active listening, maintaining eye contact, and using positive body language can enhance connection. Engaging in light small talk at the beginning can also ease any tension and set a friendly tone for the discussion.
• Evaluate the role of empathy in developing rapport during interviews, and how it contributes to effective communication.
  • Empathy plays a crucial role in developing rapport during interviews as it allows the interviewer to connect with the interviewee on a personal level. By understanding and acknowledging the feelings and perspectives of others, an interviewer can create a supportive atmosphere that encourages open dialogue. This emotional connection not only strengthens trust but also promotes effective communication, as empathetic interviewers are better equipped to ask insightful questions that resonate with their subjects' experiences.

Related terms

Active Listening:

A communication technique that involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what is being said, which helps in creating a deeper connection with the interviewee.

Body Language:

Non-verbal signals that people use to communicate; understanding and effectively using body language can enhance rapport during an interview.

Empathy: The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person, which is crucial for establishing trust and rapport in an interview setting.