Rapport building is key to a successful working relationship. Initially, it is essential to be mindful of where the client is cognitively and emotionally and to meet them where they are. This can obviously vary quite a bit. Practice active, reflective listening and asking clarifying questions to make the client feel heard and understood. The ultimate goal in rapport building is to establish a safe and trusting relationship. Clients can often tell early on whether or not we genuinely care about them as human beings. Genuine caring goes a long way to their feeling safe.
Make it a habit to point out things that they’re doing well. Attempt to understand and constantly reframe things that can offer explanations or possibilities that they haven’t thought about before. Help them to outline a plan that can guide them to reach their goals. An outstanding orientation for rapport building is the Humanistic perspective of Carl Rogers, which strives for three central tenets: empathy, unconditional positive regard, and congruence. Let clients know that you appreciate them sharing the information with you. Tell them that we are a team and that we are going to figure this out together. Ultimately what a coach can offer is hope. These are the main ingredients for rapport building.
