How To Build Rapport in An Interview

In this competitive job market, where every candidate vies for attention and recognition from busy consultants and managers, knowing how to build rapport in an interview can set you apart from the crowd. Establishing a genuine connection with your interviewer can significantly influence the outcome of your interview. An interviewer often remembers personal notes that differentiate the candidate along with a quality case performance. Let's delve into what rapport means in an interview context, ways to establish it effectively, and why it matters.

What Is Rapport in An Interview?

Rapport in an interview refers to the sense of connection and mutual understanding between the interviewer and the interviewee. It goes beyond casual conversation about the weather; it's about establishing a comfortable atmosphere where both parties feel engaged by the content of the discussion. When rapport is present, communication flows smoothly, and both parties feel at ease expressing themselves. This rapport creates a bond, even if it is small, between the interviewer and the interviewee that could impact the overall evaluation that the interviewer provides for the candidate.

What Are Some Ways to Establish Rapport in An Interview?

There are several tactics that candidates should employ during the interview to try to build rapport with their interviewer. Below are some of the most common and effective techniques for building this type of rapport:

1. Research Your Interviewer

Before the interview, take some time to learn about your interviewer. Check their LinkedIn profile or any available information to gather insights into their background, interests, and experiences. This includes understanding what industry and function they have worked in previously to ensure that you can ask pointed questions about their experience if possible. Finding commonalities can serve as excellent conversation starters, show that you take preparation seriously, and demonstrate your genuine interest in connecting with them.

2. Nonverbal Communication

Pay attention to your body language and that of your interviewer. Try to avoid posture or gesture signals that show the interviewer that you are not comfortable in the interview. Work on this prior to the interview by recording yourself as you go through case and fit interview practice. This recording can identify problematic nonverbal cues that you can work to remove from your interview. In addition, you should maintain appropriate eye contact to signal attentiveness and engagement. Nonverbal cues can speak volumes about your level of interest and receptiveness.

3. Be Authentic

Be genuine in your responses and avoid presenting a facade to impress the interviewer. It becomes clear from the depth of your answers when you are genuine and authentic in your answers. You should embrace your unique personality, skills, and experiences. It will be much more difficult to generate engaging conversation if you are spending your time calculating through your responses. These consulting firms want to hire employees who are comfortable being themselves.

4. Active Listening

Actively listen to what the interviewer is saying, rather than merely waiting for your turn to speak. Demonstrate understanding by paraphrasing their points and asking relevant questions. This should include follow-ups into interesting points that they made in their response so that the conversation evolves throughout rather than you just reciting a list of prepared questions. Active listening will convey genuine interest in their insights and perspectives.

5. Ask Open-ended Questions

Encourage deeper conversation by asking open-ended questions that invite the interviewer to share more about themselves or the company. The questions that you ask should not be something that can quickly be answered without the interviewer providing some of their own context around the answer. Try to avoid any questions that could have previously been answered by a quick Google search or an email to the recruiter. Your interview is your opportunity to have intriguing questions addressed by the experts!

6. Find Common Ground

Look for shared interests, experiences, or values and use them as a basis for connection. This could be anything from hobbies to shared career aspirations. Preparation is another major key for this step because your research can help to identify potential areas of common ground prior to entering the interview. Guide the conversation towards the areas that you think would be most beneficial for you and the interviewer to explore together.

A combination of these tools and tips should ensure that you are setting yourself up for a successful and engaging conversation with your interviewer!

Conclusion

In the consulting industry, where relationships are paramount and the ability to gain client trust is critical, the ability to build rapport in an interview is a huge skill. By mastering the techniques outlined above, you can demonstrate your aptitude for fostering meaningful connections, a trait highly prized in consulting roles. In the fast-paced world of consulting, success hinges not only on functional and technical expertise but also on the ability to establish rapport and cultivate enduring client relationships. So, approach your next interview armed with the above toolkit that is helpful for creating strong connections that propel you towards success in the consulting interview process.

Additional Resources:

• Case Interview: Complete Prep Guide
• Consulting Resume: Complete Guide
• What are Behavioral Interviews?