Rapport building is not for everyone. By that, I mean that not everyone is good at it. Rapport building is an art, not science, and some of us are better at building rapport than others. For some, it’s a place where anxiety hangs high. By Nancy Friedman

Rapport building is not for everyone. By that, I mean that not everyone is good at it. Rapport building is an art, not science, and some of us are better at building rapport than others. For some, it’s a place where anxiety hangs high.

For some, rapport building is a natural thing. It’s in their DNA, and they don’t have problems talking with anyone about anything. And yet, so many people reach deep down to find something they feel will be of interest.

Let me tell you what rapport building is not. Rapport building is not saying, “Hi, how are you?” Well, gee Nancy, then what do I tell people to start a conversation? There are various things to start a conversation without “Hi, how are you?” which is purely social noise. We can say, “It’s good to hear your voice.” We can say, “You look terrific.” We can say, “I’m glad we have this time to talk.” I can give you many other things to say other than “Hi, how are you?”

Finding the middle ground to gain a good relationship with a client, family member, or even a coworker can be troublesome for many. Yet, it is an incredible talent to have the traits to build rapport with folks.

Here are some easy traits to help build rapport:

  • Friendliness is a large part of rapport-building. Be open.
  • Smiling. Most folks who are great at rapport-building will agree on this one.
  • Laughter, along with the desire to hear more about them than you, is key.

Talking too much about yourself will not build rapport. Remember, it’s about them, not you.

Nancy Friedman, the founder and chairman of Telephone Doctor Customer Service Training, is a popular keynote customer service speaker at franchise, corporate meetings, and conferences around the country. She is now offering and specializing in VIRTUAL ZOOM programs and her fun WEBINARS. Nancy can be reached at nancyfriedman.com, email her at nancy@telephonedoctor.com, or call 314-291-1012.