Which approach is most effective for building rapport with an audience?

Maintaining consistent eye contact is crucial for building rapport with an audience because it establishes a connection and demonstrates engagement. When a speaker makes eye contact, it signals to the audience that they are valued and that their presence is acknowledged. This kind of nonverbal communication fosters trust and encourages listeners to feel more involved in the presentation. Furthermore, it helps the speaker gauge audience reactions and adapt their message in real-time, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the communication.

In contrast, using technical jargon can alienate or confuse the audience, as it might create a barrier instead of fostering connection. Reading from a teleprompter could detract from the natural flow of communication and diminish the personal touch necessary for rapport. Staying distant from the audience completely undermines the goal of building relationships, as it creates a sense of separation rather than connection. Hence, maintaining consistent eye contact is the most effective strategy for rapport.