Three Simple Ways to Build Rapport

Build Rapport First – Everything Else Becomes Easier

the Lazy Facilitator Episode 14

Early in my career, I made a mistake that I see many other facilitators make all the time.

I’d walk into a room, sit down my stuff, welcome everyone, and then dive straight into my content. And then later, I’d wonder why people didn’t seem engaged, why everything felt like hard work.

Here’s what I learned…

If you don’t build connections or rapport first, everything else will feel like you’re pushing uphill. Your activities will fall flat. No one raises their hand, and your group will feel like they’re just going through the motions.

So let me share three things I do today that create instant rapport. And I mean instant.

Three Simple Ways to Build Rapport

First, smile. Make eye contact and learn people’s names early. And then use their names when you meet them and repeat them throughout. It’s simple, but it shows you care, and people feel that.

Second, help humour flourish. You don’t have to tell jokes. Just notice and highlight those moments when funny things happen naturally. Laughter builds connections faster than anything else I know.

And third, look for clues to make connections personal, such as commenting on what someone is wearing or sharing or carrying. For example, if their t-shirt promotes a country you’ve visited, mention it and ask if they’ve been there too. I promise you, every person gives you something to connect with, but only if you’re paying attention. And here’s the truth.

Rapport isn’t magic.

It’s just intentional small actions that say, I see you, you matter.

Do this well, and everything else becomes easier.