By definition, rapport is “a close and harmonious relationship in which the people or groups concerned understand each other’s feelings or ideas and communicate well”. A person is most responsive to us when we have built rapport with them. With that being said…people hire people they like. Your resume and experience are important pieces with an interview. Also just as important is your ability to relate and identify with your interviewer. You can build rapport by doing the following;
- Show that you care. Research the company, the job you are applying for, and the people you are interviewing with.
- Find a common ground. Connect with the interviewer by establishing things you may have in common.
- Listen and learn. People like themselves. And they like to talk about themselves. It’s a simple fact.
- Body language. Just as important as the words you speak and tone of your voice is your body language. You want to not only sound confident, but look and move with confidence.
Great article Andria! I interview several people each week and I can’t tell you the number of people who show they don’t care by coming late, not wearing their best clothing and not bothering to research the company. And many people make no effort to create chemistry between themselves and the interviewers. Very good points!