Rapport

The Common Misconceptions about Rapport - Rapport is not about “being nice” or trying to befriend the interviewee. Rapport building is the process of establishing a positive and empathetic connection with the interviewee. It involves creating a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where the interviewee feels comfortable sharing information and expressing themselves freely.

Research and real-life case studies consistently demonstrate that an interviewer’s ability to master authentic rapport with the interviewee significantly enhances the success rate of obtaining valuable and reliable information. Even in cases involving suspects who are resistant to sharing information or who initially choose to remain silent or provide misinformation, the establishment of genuine rapport facilitates communication and fosters trust, leading to more fruitful interactions and increased cooperation from the suspect.

Some key strategies for building rapport include:

1. Active Listening - Demonstrating genuine interest and attentiveness to the interviewee's words, feelings, and experiences. This involves making eye contact, nodding, and providing verbal affirmations to signal understanding and validation.

2. Empathy - Showing empathy by acknowledging and validating the interviewee's emotions and experiences without judgment or criticism. Empathetic responses convey understanding and help the interviewee feel heard and understood.

3. Autonomy - Although it may appear counterintuitive, acknowledging and offering the interviewee the choice to engage or remain silent enhances cooperation and fosters a greater willingness to communicate.

4. Respect - Treat the interviewee with respect and dignity, regardless of their background, beliefs, or behaviors. Respectful communication fosters trust and establishes a positive rapport between the interviewer and interviewee. Being confrontational and accusatory towards someone, branding them as a liar, undermines respect and significantly heightens the probability of that individual shutting down and ceasing communication.

5. Authenticity - Being genuine and sincere in interactions with the interviewee. Authenticity builds credibility and trust, as the interviewee is more likely to respond positively to someone perceived as genuine and trustworthy. If an interviewee perceives the interviewer as inauthentic, the interviewee will likely become guarded and uncooperative, leading to a breakdown in communication.