Topic 1.9.4 Building Rapport
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BUILD RAPPORT?
DISCUSSION: how do you usually build rapport with someone you meet for the first time? Give examples of spoken and non-verbal techniques for building rapport with new colleagues.
ACTIVITY: Video. Watch the video as Daniel and Alex prepare for the graduate trainees´ induction meeting and answer the questions.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yaHvCZHo-Iw
- How does Daniel describe Beata?
- What is Jessica looking for in an employee?
- What do we learn about Alex?
- What does Alex do to try to build rapport with Beata?
DISCUSSION: which is the best approach (Option A or B) for Beata to take as she meets members of the team for the first time. As a class, decide which video to watch first.
Option A – Beata tries to build rapport by listening to her new colleagues.
Option B – Beata tries to build rapport by demonstrating her knowledge of the product and the company.
Now work in pairs or small groups and answer the questions below:
How does Beata try to build rapport with Alex / Jessica?
Is she successful? Why? why not?
ACTIVITY: Video. before watching the Conclusions section answer the question below:
What have you learnt from the two options (A-B)?
Now watch the last part and compare what the speaker says to your answer.
ACTIVITY: look at some ways of non-verbal communication. Do you usually use any of them? When?
Work in pairs. Add at least one more example to each group above.
ROLE PLAY: work in groups of three. Read the scenario below. Roleplay the situation.
Scenario: business meeting to introduce a new project.
Project Name: Eco-Friendly Office Supplies Initiative
Objective: To reduce the company’s environmental footprint by switching to eco-friendly office supplies.
Roles:
Manager: Responsible for leading the meeting and presenting a new project.
-A brief introduction of the project.
-Use gestures to emphasize key points.
Team member A: Interested in the project and asks questions.
– leaning forward and nodding.
-Use positive facial expressions to show enthusiasm.
Team member B: Skeptical about the project and expresses concerns.
-Show skepticism by crossing arms or raising an eyebrow.
-Use a questioning tone and cautious body language.
DISCUSSION: Discuss the following questions:
How did nonverbal communication affect the interaction?
What nonverbal cues were most effective in conveying interest or skepticism?
How can nonverbal communication be improved in a business setting?
ACTIVITY:
Use the Cambridge Online Dictionary to look the meaning up and read more examples.