Body language is a reflection of a person’s non-verbal communication. It includes movements or expressions that are so subtle the person may not even be aware of it themselves. Albert Mehrabian conducted a research in 1971 and concluded that there are three elements in any face to face communication

1. Words (7%)
2. Tone of voice (38%)
3. Body language (55%)

The actual words spoken only account for 7% of the communication, while body language makes up 55%. Just as how you can’t really afford the luxury of time to allow others to have a better impression of you, the amount of time you have to build rapport at the start is relatively short too.

Therefore, understanding body language gives you a huge edge in communication ability, and allows you to build rapport with people within a much shorter time.

One of the best ways to assess if someone you are meeting for the first time is positive or negative towards you is to observe their body actions, and notice if they will “mirror” you. Mirroring means to move or gesture in the same way.

Mirroring is to tell others that you are similar, and similarities bring people together. If you have been to a sports event where everyone in the same section is cheering for the same team, you would feel the strong vibes in the atmosphere.

Similarly, if you were relocated to work or live in a foreign land where the language is different, and you meet someone who speaks your language, there is a high chance rapport would be established very quickly.

Mirroring is also a way of showing acceptance and building rapport, something that we do subconsciously all the time. Just be more observant towards people the next time you are out, and you will notice mirroring taking place everywhere. It could be between couples, groups of friends, families, and even strangers.

So if you want to build up rapport with someone quickly, do try this proven method of subtle mirroring of their gestures, body actions, and even words. You might just surprise yourself with the results that come from it.

A note to remember though, the key here is to be subtle with your mirroring. The last thing you want is to break rapport by irritating others with your excessive copying. Therefore, when you are mirroring the other person, create a lag time before subtly following any change in their posture.

Author's Bio: 

The author is a trainer who specialises in Communication, Sales and Customer Service. Trained in Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Enneagram Personality Profiling, he hopes to share his knowledge on Successful Interpersonal Communication Skills with people around him.

He is also a co-founder of LoveStory.sg - a Dating and Matchmaking Service that primarily focuses on Singles Dating in Singapore. Though it's mainly catered for residents of Singapore, you can still visit the website and access the LoveStory.sg Blog for ideas on dating tips and communication skills.