Creating Rapport
Next time you are in a conversation with a client or friend, try these techniques for creating rapport:
Mirror their posture
Give non-verbal responses to their communication (such as nodding your head or subvocalizing "mm hmm")
Use their first name periodically when communicating a thought.
Reflect back what you hear them saying before responding.
Speak in a similar rhythm.
Smile when they smile.
Listen for verbs and use similar verbs in your sentences.
Example:
References to vision
Your partner: I'm not sure I see what you mean
You: So, it doesn't look clear to you? Suppose we try to see it from a different
angle.
or
References to body sensation
Your partner: I have a gut feeling that's not going to work
You: Maybe we can handle it differently
Notice what effect this has on the interaction.