Why Build Rapport? 10 Methods For Employee Relationship Building

What does it mean to build rapport, and why is it so important in your employee relationships? Rapport, by definition, is a close and harmonious relationship in which the people or groups concerned understand each other’s feelings or ideas, and communicate well”.

Building rapport in the workplace can help to make your job more enjoyable, improve morale, and drive the workplace to be more efficient. Read on for some helpful tips on how to build rapport for better employee relationships and productivity. 

How to Build Rapport: 10 Effective Ways 

Employee collaboration and communication are integral to any organization. When employees know how to build rapport with each other, and are respectful of each other in the workplace, the business thrives.

Here are 10 effective ways to build rapport with your colleagues, and help others in your workplace do the same. 

Make Your Expectations Clear 

Let your teammates and colleagues know what you expect from them. Find out what is expected of you, and also make your expectations of others clear. Many conflicts arise from simple miscommunications or unrealized expectations. 

Ensure Your Work Environment Is Supportive 

Employees must feel safe and supported to do their best work. Ensure that you create a space that is receptive to ideas, feedback, and open communication. Ditch the know-it-all attitude if you have one. A truly supportive work environment is open to evolving.

Recognize The Strengths of Others 

Do your best to seek out the strengths of others in your workplace. Acknowledge and commend them when you are given the opportunity. Additionally, consider the strengths of others when assigning roles and responsibilities, so everyone on the team succeeds.

Encourage Collaboration and Independent Thought 

All businesses and organizations want to grow, but growth cannot happen without flexibility. The business must adapt and adjust to changes in the industry, economy, and more. Because of this, inviting collaboration and independent thought from your colleagues is a MUST. This is one of the best ways to build rapport. 

Make Interoffice Communication Easy 

Interoffice communication is key. If you don’t have a platform where employees can easily collaborate on projects and assignments, implement one. For example, online platforms such as Slack or Brosix are great options.  

Acknowledge That Mistakes Are Okay 

We are all human and mistakes are inevitable. If a colleague or team member makes an error, acknowledge that this is okay and happens to the best of us. A work environment that is supportive and forgiving of workplace mistakes is vital to the mental health and wellbeing of its employees. 

Embrace and Encourage Feedback from Others 

Feedback from others should not only be embraced, it also should be requested. One of the best ways to build rapport with your colleagues and employees is to regularly ask for feedback on how you’re doing. Don’t be defensive, put your ego aside, and encourage feedback from others on your own performance at work. 

Don’t Let Conflicts Stir and Simmer 

There is no room in the workplace for unhandled conflicts. If you have a conflict or are upset with a colleague, don’t let this simmer. Take the time to collect your thoughts, and open the conversation in a calm and professional manner. 

Lead by Example 

Getting respect means giving respect. Receiving open communication and professional dialogue means giving the same to others. One of the best ways to build rapport with others in the workplace is to lead by example. The way you interact with others is the way others will interact with you – never forget this! 

Start Right Away! 

Establish rapport immediately with your colleagues, team members, and employees. Whether it’s your first day on the job or someone else's, don’t wait to start building a solid working relationship with others. 

Establish Rapport with ASAP’s Help

For more helpful tips on improving your workplace collaboration and communication skills, look to ASAP. We offer robust training materials, webinars, in-person events, and the PACE certification to help administrative professionals and executive assistants advance in their careers.