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The term "rapport” is often mentioned in contexts related to communication, sales and interpersonal relationships. But what exactly is the “rapport” and how can we apply it in our daily lives?

In this article, we will explore the meaning of rapport and learn how to use it effectively in various situations.

Understanding what it is rapport

THE rapport is a fundamental concept in communication, referring to a relationship of trust and harmony that is established between two or more people.

This relationship allows for more effective communication, as both parties feel comfortable sharing ideas, feelings and information. In this way, the rapport becomes the basis for building meaningful connections in different areas of life.

Origin of rapport

The word “rapport” has its origins in the French language and means “relationship” or “connection”. The origin of the term dates back to France, where “rapport” is used to describe the bond or connection established between people.

The concept of “rapport” has become widely recognized and used in psychology, therapy, negotiation, sales, and many other fields because of its importance in creating effective interpersonal relationships.

Introduced by Richard Bandler and John Grinder, founders of Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP), the ability to establish a rapport solid is essential for effective communication and developing positive relationships, both on a personal and professional level. This is why the term rapport It is widely used and valued in many areas of life.

Key elements to create rapport

To establish rapport effectively, it is important to consider some key elements:

• Empathy: Put yourself in someone else's shoes, showing understanding and genuine interest in their concerns and feelings.
• Active listening: Pay full attention to what the other person is saying, showing that you value their opinion.

Using the rapport in sales

In the sales context, the rapport plays a crucial role. When salespeople are able to build a trusting relationship with customers, the chances of closing deals increase significantly. Here are some tips for using the rapport in sales:

Show genuine interest:

Show genuine interest in your customers. Ask open-ended questions about their interests, needs, and concerns. Then, listen carefully to their answers and show empathy.

Find common interests:

Try to discover shared interests. If you have hobbies, common values or experiences, mention this to establish a deeper connection.

Communicate effectively:

Adjust your communication to suit your client’s style. Some clients may prefer a more formal approach, while others may enjoy relaxed conversation. So, adapt to build a rapport more solid.

Be aware of body language:

Observe the customer’s body language and adjust your own accordingly. This includes things like maintaining eye contact, using gestures that match the customer’s, and adapting your posture. This technique is called mirroring, and it helps you build rapport with the other person.

Be authentic:

While it’s important to tailor your communication to the customer, always be authentic. Not only is it wrong to fake it, but customers can sense when someone is being fake. So show who you genuinely are and build a relationship of trust.

Solve problems:

Show that you are willing to help customers solve their problems and meet their needs. Focus on how your product or service can benefit them.

Follow the client:

After you make a sale, continue to build the rapport following up with the customer. Check to see if they are satisfied with their purchase and if they have any questions or concerns.

Remember the details:

Write down important information about customers, such as their names, preferences, and purchase history. This shows that you value the relationship and care about them as individuals.

Be patient:

Build a rapport Building a solid relationship can take time. Don’t rush to close a sale. Instead, focus on building a lasting relationship and successful sales will follow naturally.

Practice empathy:

Try to put yourself in the customer’s shoes and understand their needs and concerns. This will show that you care about what they are going through.

Applying the rapport in professional life

In the workplace, the rapport is essential for building healthy and productive relationships with colleagues and superiors. Here are some ways to apply the rapport in professional life:

Show respect:

Treat your colleagues, superiors and subordinates with respect and courtesy. Show that you value their opinions and contributions, regardless of their position in the hierarchy.

Listen actively:

Practice active listening by paying full attention to what your colleagues are saying. Show that you are genuinely interested in understanding their perspectives and needs.

Be open to collaboration:

Be willing to collaborate with others. Show a willingness to share knowledge and work as a team to achieve common goals.

Offer help:

When your colleagues face challenges or need support, be willing to offer help. This builds trust and strengthens relationships.

Communicate effectively:

Adapt your communication to your audience. Use language and communication style that are appropriate for the situation and your colleagues’ preferences.

Keep commitments:

Meet your commitments and deadlines. This demonstrates reliability and responsibility, which is essential for building a successful business. rapport.

Remember personal details:

Write down and remember personal details about your colleagues, such as birthdays, interests, and accomplishments. This shows that you care about them as individuals.

Accept feedback:

Be open to receiving feedback constructive and use it to improve. This shows that you value other people's opinions and are willing to grow professionally.

Keep calm under pressure:

In stressful situations, stay calm and composed. This inspires confidence and shows that you can handle challenges effectively.

Resolve conflicts constructively:

Instead of avoiding conflict, approach it constructively. Be willing to listen to all parties involved and seek solutions that are beneficial to everyone.

Be transparent:

Share information transparently when appropriate. This helps build trust and avoids misunderstandings.

Create a positive environment:

Maintain a positive attitude and promote a healthy work environment. This will positively influence the morale and productivity of the entire team.

The role of rapport in personal relationships

In personal relationships, the rapport is the foundation for strong, healthy connections. Here are some tips for applying it in your everyday life:

Be authentic:

Be yourself at all times. Don't try to be someone you're not to please others. Authenticity is the basis of genuine relationships. Therefore, all the tips that follow should always be accompanied by authenticity.

Show genuine interest and be present:

Show genuine interest in the people around you. Ask questions about their lives, interests, and feelings, and listen carefully to their answers. And when you are in someone’s presence, avoid distractions and give your full attention to the conversation or interaction.

Practice empathy:

Try to understand other people's feelings and perspectives. So put yourself in their shoes and show understanding for their experiences.

Communicate effectively:

Adapt your communication style to that of your interlocutors. This can include the way you speak, your body language, and your tone of voice.

Share stories and experiences:

Sharing your own stories and experiences can create deeper connections. Personal narratives can bring people closer together.

Be present:

Keep in touch with friends and family regularly. Calling, texting, or meeting in person can help strengthen your bonds. If you don’t prioritize your personal relationships, you won’t be present in the lives of your loved ones.

Be a part of:

Be willing to help and support your friends and family when they need it. Be a listening ear and offer practical help when appropriate. Be a part of the lives of those who care about you on important dates and milestones.

Respect limits:

Be aware of other people's boundaries and respect their needs and desires. Respecting boundaries is essential to building healthy relationships.

Resolve conflicts constructively:

In conflicts, approach the situation constructively, seeking solutions that are fair to both parties. Avoid unnecessary confrontations.

Show gratitude and be patient:

Express gratitude for having special people in your life. Saying “thank you” and showing appreciation strengthens relationships.

Building strong relationships takes time, so don’t expect intimacy and trust to develop quickly.

In short…

THE rapport is a valuable skill that can be used in many areas of our lives, from sales to personal and professional relationships. By building relationships based on trust, empathy, and understanding, we can significantly improve our communication and create meaningful connections with others. Remember to practice rapport regularly, adapting it to different situations, and you will reap the benefits of more positive and effective relationships in your daily life.

Image: Freepik modified