In an AI-driven world, where data collection and analysis are rapidly being automated, a qualitative researcher's unique and enduring superpower is human connection. Our goal is to effortlessly build rapport with a diverse group of people, ensuring participants feel at ease sharing their stories on any topic. Let's explore some practical tips and exercises designed to make you more dynamic - both as an interviewer and as a person - allowing you to confidently navigate any conversation or situation.

1. Cultivate Genuine Curiosity

Approach every conversation as a chance to learn something new. A dynamic researcher doesn’t always dominate a conversation - they adapt and flow with it.

Exercise: “10-Minute Deep Dives”

• Once a day, pick someone (friend, coworker, barista) and ask a non-surface-level question.
• Examples:
  
  • “What’s something you’re looking forward to this month?”
  • “What do you wish more people understood about your job/hobby?”
  • "What’s your favorite drink you’ve been making lately?"
• Practice listening without interrupting or planning your reply. Just follow their lead.

2. Diversify Your Experiences

Dynamic researchers draw on a rich bank of experiences, which gives them something meaningful to contribute in most conversations.

Exercise: “One New Thing a Week”

• Commit to trying one new thing that pushes your comfort zone:
• Listen to totally different music than your typical - try cooking dinner to French café music, it will completely change the experience!
• Read an article or book from a genre you never touch.
• Attend a public event or group that’s outside your usual social or cultural circles.
• Watch a documentary or podcast about someone with a drastically different life experience.
• Reflect: What did it make you feel or question?
  

3. Practice Emotional Intelligence

Learn how to mirror others subtly and respectfully - this builds rapport.

Exercise: “Mirror & Match” (Subtle, not mimicry!)

• When talking to someone, gently match their energy:
  
  • If they’re quiet and thoughtful, slow your pace.
  • If they’re excited and expressive, engage with matching warmth.
• Practice noticing nonverbal signals: crossed arms, shifting posture, eye contact.

4. Reflect & Self-Audit

Reflection builds social self-awareness and gives you data to learn and grow from.

Exercise: “Connection Reflection”

• After a social event or discussion, consider:
  
  • Who did I connect with easily?
  • What moment stood out, either positive or awkward?
• Think about your top core values (i.e. kindness, integrity, positivity, reliability, etc.)
  
  • Did I show up in line with these today?
  • The more consistently your inside matches your outside, the more magnetic you’ll be.

In a world of AI that can certainly process data, the magic of qualitative research remains solely human. It is the nuance and deep insight we bring that makes the data truly matter.

So, pick one exercise to commit to this week. Start small, reflect often, and watch how quickly you become the kind of person who can walk into any room, navigate any topic, and leave everyone feeling genuinely heard. After all, when we connect better, we understand better-and that is the fundamental goal of our work.