The word we are analyzing has three very different meanings. On the one hand, a rapport is a written report with the aim of conveying information. At the same time, it is the atmosphere of trust that is generated between two people. Finally, in the textile industry this term is used to refer to the repetition of a drawing on a fabric.
It should be noted that the word rapport comes from French and has several meanings: income, testimony or relationship. On the other hand, the verb rapporter means to inform, return or bring.
A written report
In certain business or commercial activities it is necessary to write documents to communicate some type of information of interest. Thus, visit reports are used by salespeople to convey customer contacts to their superiors.
The rapport technique in human relationships
When two individuals interact or communicate, they can empathize emotionally or just the opposite. Experts in coaching and neurolinguistic programming use the rapport technique. It consists of generating good chemistry in communication.
In this sense, we can generate this feeling using some strategies. One of them consists of imitating the other, especially their non-verbal language, because in this way the other will feel understood and supported. Other characteristics, such as tone of voice or speed of expression, can also be imitated.
The techniques are aimed at improving emotional harmony between two or more people. Sometimes we create rapport in a conscious way when we know how to use these types of techniques, but we also create it unconsciously.
Before generating or creating rapport with respect to someone, it is convenient to observe the other, that is, identify if they are upset or calm.
Also, the body position of the interlocutor and his movements can be observed, since from this initial observation an imitation "mirror effect" can be provoked.
Finally, it is convenient to speak with a tone and a speed that generates a certain connection with the interlocutor.
In the textile industry
When buying a piece of fabric in a textile store, it is important to accurately determine its dimensions. Many fabrics have drawings and shapes and the term rapport is used to indicate the frequency with which a drawing is repeated in a given piece.
Photo: Fotolia - Dragos Iliescu
