12 March 2024

The rise of remote ‘work from home’ jobs, businesses, and virtual interactions has redefined the landscape of building rapport. Since the introduction of Covid over the last few years, the way we work has steadily had to change, we had to innovate, and modify the way things were done – including the way we communicated and interacted with others socially. The increase of non-face-to-face interaction meant that our social skills also had to adapt and that things were done at a distance quite literally. But don't let geographical distance or screen barriers deter you. You can cultivate strong connections even in the digital realm with a few conscious tweaks.

So, how do you do this you might ask? By utilising the new infrastructure with the old ways and merging them into a new experience is the only way. Being willing to adapt and accept that the old ways are now changing is the other thing that one must accept. Also, the social and overall well-being of your whole as a person must be taken care of as the lack of the face-to-face world has forever changed in many ways. Even I notice the increase of social anxiety and angst amongst those around me whenever I go out and do my ‘everyday things’ like grocery shopping now.

Master the Virtual Meeting Space for Business

Technology can be your ally or your enemy. Familiarise yourself with video conferencing platforms, learn to utilise features like breakout rooms and polls, and ensure everyone has an equal opportunity to participate. Create a virtual space that feels inviting and accessible, fostering a sense of shared presence even through a screen.

Embrace Active Listening, Virtually When Socialising Online

Nonverbal cues become more nuanced online. Be extra attentive to tone of voice, word choice, and pauses. Use virtual tools like emojis and reactions to show engagement and acknowledge contributions. Pay attention to chat messages and respond promptly, ensuring everyone feels heard and valued.

Leverage Shared Experiences

Creating virtual watercooler moments (small breaks), scheduling social calls, hosting team games, and celebrating milestones together can help foster a sense of community beyond work-related tasks and build camaraderie. Encourage informal chats and light-hearted conversations to make online interactions less transactional and more friendly.

Personalise Your Approach to Each Individual

While online communication might feel impersonal, go the extra mile to demonstrate individual attention. Remember birthdays, celebrate achievements, and offer virtual congratulations or condolences when appropriate. Show genuine interest in colleagues' lives outside of work, fostering a sense of connection on a personal level.

Embrace Vulnerability and Empathy on This New Online Journey

Technology can create an illusion of distance but don't shy away from showing your human side. Acknowledge challenges, express gratitude, and be open about your own experiences. Virtual vulnerability can foster genuine connections and encourage others to do the same, creating a supportive and collaborative environment.

Building rapport in a virtual world requires intentionality and adaptation. By mastering these strategies and investing in creating a connected online workspace, you can bridge the digital divide and cultivate meaningful relationships even without face-to-face interaction.

Remember, whether online or offline, building rapport is an ongoing journey. The effort you invest in connecting with others will reap rewards in the form of stronger relationships, smoother collaborations, and a more rewarding professional experience.

As we enter the next phase of this journey and we return to a sense of ‘normal’, let’s not forget that what we have all just been through was an experience that we all went through and not just one individual or another. Take what you have learnt and experienced as something to build on and learn as you go on this new pathway ahead. There are exciting times ahead once again for all of us, it’s just how we master that oncoming pathway ahead that will determine just how well we each do in the following years to come now that the new wave is here in the way that we live.