When you have good rapport with someone, interacting with them feel easier and more pleasant.
Rapport can be instant – you meet someone you just “click with” – or build over time. One way we build rapport is by mirroring other people’s facial expressions, tone, pace, and body language as we interact. It happens unconsciously when we’re in person but takes more work when we talk virtually.
I make it a point to visibly repond to what others are saying on video calls with a smile, nod, thumbs up (actual thumb, not emoji thumb), or other gesture, especially on group calls, because I want people to feel comfortable talking to me and know I’m listening.
It seems I’m the only one who does, though. When I scan the gallery on most multi-person Zoom calls I see a wall of stoic faces, even when I know everyone is paying attention. My question is why? I’m not sure I could do it if I tried.
QUESTION: Do you try to keep a poker face on video calls? Is there a particular reason? Curious minds want to know.
