Which question is a POOR example of how to build rapport?

• A. What political party do you support?
• B. How has your day been going?
• C. What brings you here today?
• D. Do you have any questions?

Answer: (A)

Building rapport relies on questions that are open, neutral, and focused on the other person’s current experience or purpose. Asking about political party is a poor example because it introduces potential disagreement, can feel intrusive or judgmental, and isn’t likely to invite the other person to share about themselves in a comfortable way. It can create defensiveness or a barrier to trust, which defeats the goal of making the other person feel understood and at ease.

The other options are more effective for rapport because they show genuine interest in the person’s present state or situation: asking how their day has been invites them to share how they’re feeling; asking what brings them here today demonstrates curiosity about their purpose or needs; and offering to answer questions signals openness and support. In short, steer conversations toward neutral, open-ended prompts that invite sharing and cooperation, rather than topics that can provoke conflict or discomfort.