Reciprocity

Definition

Reciprocity refers to the mutual exchange of resources or services between individuals or groups, fostering a sense of trust and cooperation. In the context of building trust and rapport, reciprocity plays a vital role as it encourages open communication and establishes a balanced relationship where both parties feel valued and respected.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Reciprocity can help create a comfortable environment for interview subjects, making them more willing to share personal stories and insights.
2. Establishing reciprocity often requires active listening and genuine engagement, allowing interviewers to build deeper connections with their subjects.
3. Non-verbal communication plays a crucial role in reciprocity; gestures like nodding or maintaining eye contact can reinforce the sense of mutual respect.
4. Reciprocity can be enhanced through small gestures, such as sharing relevant experiences or showing appreciation for the subject's openness during interviews.
5. The foundation of reciprocity lies in creating a safe space where interview subjects feel their contributions are valued and reciprocated by the interviewer.

Review Questions

• How does reciprocity influence the dynamic between interviewers and subjects during an interview?
  • Reciprocity influences the dynamic by encouraging a two-way exchange of information, where both the interviewer and subject feel invested in the conversation. When interviewers engage openly and share their own relevant experiences or insights, it fosters trust and makes subjects more comfortable. This mutual give-and-take helps create a rapport that can lead to richer and more authentic responses.
• What techniques can be employed to effectively establish reciprocity with interview subjects?
  • Effective techniques for establishing reciprocity include active listening, maintaining eye contact, and using verbal affirmations to validate the subject's responses. Additionally, interviewers can share their own stories or experiences that relate to what the subject is discussing, which helps create a connection. Creating an environment where both parties feel valued encourages openness and can lead to deeper insights during interviews.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of reciprocity on the quality of information gathered in interviews.
  • The long-term impact of reciprocity on information quality is significant as it leads to stronger relationships built on trust. When interview subjects feel their contributions are reciprocated and appreciated, they are more likely to provide detailed, honest answers in future interactions. This ongoing relationship can yield richer narratives over time, enabling researchers to gather more nuanced information that reflects deeper truths about the subjects’ experiences.

Related terms

Trust:

A firm belief in the reliability, truth, or ability of someone or something, which is essential for fostering strong interpersonal relationships.

Empathy:

The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person, which helps build connections and strengthens relationships.

Social Exchange Theory: A theory that suggests social behavior is the result of an exchange process to maximize benefits and minimize costs in relationships.