6 Ways to Build Rapport
6 Ways to Build Rapport
The Importance of Rapport Building with Individuals
Building rapport with individuals you work with is essential for building trust and developing positive relationships. Establishing a strong connection can help individuals feel safe and comfortable around support staff, leading to better communication and engagement. Effective rapport building requires intentional actions and attentiveness to the individual’s needs and preferences.
Strategies for Building Rapport
1. Learn About Their Interests
It is important to learn about an individual’s interests, as this provides insight into what they like to do or talk about. Using their interests to make connections is a great way to build relationships and foster a sense of connection. Support staff can learn about an individual’s interests by directly asking them what they enjoy, offering choices of activities, and observing their responses. For non-verbal individuals, observing what they enjoy doing when alone can provide valuable insights. Following their lead and paying close attention to body language is crucial, especially for those who may not be able to express their preferences verbally. If an individual moves away or displays facial expressions indicating discomfort, support staff should respect their boundaries and introduce an alternative activity.
2. Provide Consistent Attention
Giving individuals regular attention helps build stronger relationships. The frequency and type of attention should be tailored to each individual’s needs. Attention can be expressed in various ways, including verbal praise, commenting on their activities, checking in on their well-being, offering high-fives, or simply acknowledging their presence. Small but meaningful interactions can make a significant difference in establishing trust.
3. Initiate Interactions
Once you identify their interests, you can use this knowledge to initiate meaningful interactions. This can be done by starting a conversation, offering preferred items, or providing choices of preferred activities (e.g., “Would you like to sing a song or watch TV?”). For individuals who are hesitant to engage, support staff can participate in their preferred activities nearby to demonstrate shared interests and create a comfortable environment. An effective approach to initiating interaction is to be in their space and comment on what they are doing while engaging in their preferred activity. For example, if the individual is watching their favorite show, you can be in the same space and comment about the show. Engaging individuals in conversations about their favorite topics or activities helps to build a sense of familiarity and trust. Another effective way to foster engagement is by involving individuals in daily routines. Encouraging participation in everyday activities, such as washing vegetables while preparing a meal or folding the laundry together, not only provides a sense of inclusion but also helps individuals develop a stronger connection with their roommates and support staff. These shared experiences create opportunities for natural interactions and meaningful engagement. Additionally, adapting the approach based on the individual’s communication style and cognitive abilities can further enhance engagement and connection.
4. Respect Personal Boundaries
Understanding and respecting personal space and boundaries is crucial when building rapport. Some individuals may appreciate close interactions, while others may prefer more distance. Paying attention to their comfort levels ensures that engagement remains positive and respectful.
5. Be Patient and Consistent
Building rapport takes time. Consistency in interactions and maintaining a calm, supportive presence can gradually establish a sense of security and trust.
6. Use Active Listening
Actively listening to individuals, whether they are verbal or non-verbal, demonstrates that their thoughts and feelings are valued. Active listening goes beyond verbal communication and includes recognizing and responding to other forms of communication, such as signs, gestures, body language, facial expressions, and more. Nodding, making eye contact, and responding appropriately to their expressions or gestures can encourage open communication and strengthen the relationship.
Key Takeaways
Effective rapport building is a fundamental aspect of person-centered care. By taking the time to understand individual preferences, providing consistent attention, respecting boundaries, and using active listening, support staff can create a supportive and trusting environment. Whether working with children or adults, establishing rapport enhances the overall well-being of individuals and fosters positive interactions that lead to forming a better relationship.
Written By
Insung Peak, M.Sc, BCBA
Associate Clinical Lead Support Approach Team
