Build real rapport for great teamwork

"Connecting with others is essential for our personal well-being.
It dramatically improves our professional outcomes."

Gabriella Rosen Kellerman and Martin Seligman

Today, when work arrangements are more fluid and flexible than ever before, with hybrid teams working remotely, part-time, or on a project-by-project basis, the ability to build authentic connection quickly is an essential skill for leaders who want to get the best out of the new workplace dynamics.

"We are wired to grow through our relationships with others."

Gabriella Rosen Kellerman and Martin Seligman

We're deeply relational creatures and are generally happiest and at our best when amongst others with whom we feel an authentic connection. This applies as much to work group dynamics, as to the other spheres of our lives.

What is authentic connection?

Put simply, it's showing people who you are and being genuinely interested in finding out who they are. It sounds easy, but in reality, many of us put up barriers with others, particularly when we feel our reputation or status is at stake. Authentic connection requires both courage and curiosity to be who we really are and to extend others the same invitation. 

Authentic connection is the key to real rapport.

When we show up authentically, people know it, and are far more likely to be open to a genuine connection in return. Real rapport is an experience we know to be true, and it is the golden ticket for positive relationship dynamics.

Leaders who can authentically connect with their team are able to create an environment of genuine trust, respect, and openness. Their acceptance of self and others innately strengthens team bonds and individual team members' sense of belonging, creating a supportive atmosphere that makes the most of collaborative possibilities. 

• Negotiate time

  Empower people by agreeing on an end time to make them feel safer. 

  Intentional listening

  To build rapport, listen deeply, don't mindlessly interrupt and ask questions that show genuine curiosity and interest in others' perspectives. 

• Note how you speak

  Watch your tone. It signals your intention; speak slowly and clearly, especially during first contact, to ensure understanding.

• Clock your nonverbals

  Use body language that communicates comfort and openness.

  Expressing appreciation

  Positively energise your team by showing genuine appreciation for the contributions of others.

• Find common ground

  Establish commonalities and share your experiences to build trust.

• Seek deeper insights and context 

  Use open-ended questions to learn about the other person's priorities and challenges. 

• Validate their views

  Seek to understand others with curiosity, even if you don't necessarily agree with them.

• Slow your speech rate

  Speak slowly and clearly, especially during first contact, to ensure understanding.

• Park your ego

  Don't seek personal gain; focus on the other person's priorities and pain points.

^Sources:

1. _{^{Kellerman GR & Seligman, M (2023) TomorrowMind: Thriving at Work with Resilience, Creativity, and Connection – Now and in an Uncertain Future}}
2. _{Dreeke R, Top 10 Techniques to Build Quick Rapport with Anyone, GLG Webcast, 2022}