Reciprocation is an important part of building rapport. True or False?

• A. Sometimes
• B. True
• C. False
• D. Not sure

Answer: (B)

Reciprocation in conversations is mutual give-and-take that builds trust and comfort, which is essential for rapport. When you respond to what someone shares with warmth, mirror their cues, and offer your own relevant information or questions, you signal that the interaction is balanced. This back-and-forth makes the other person feel heard and valued, creating a sense of connection. Because rapport grows from consistent, reciprocal signaling—listening, validating, and sharing appropriately—the statement is true. Of course, reciprocity should be genuine and responsive to cues rather than forced, matching tone, pace, and boundaries. In practice, if they reveal something, you acknowledge and respond with empathy or a related question; that ongoing mutual exchange keeps rapport strong. The other options don’t fit because they imply inconsistency, lack of importance, or uncertainty, which would undermine building a genuine connection.