Matching and Mirroring in Communication

In the Time Warner book Mindgym, first published in 2005 the chapter on "Connect" highlights how "Mirroring and Matching" strikes a liking between two people . Several communications researchers have posited that it has become almost automatic that when two people like each other or one wants to be liked by the other, they will emulate each other in some way. Matching and Mirroring aren't only about non-verbals but also about verbal. For instance we tend to unconsciously shift our speech pattern to match those with others.

Here are some facts that stresses on Why matching should be catching

1) When we are matching each other we tend to get along better-- Many psychological experiments have shown that when there is 'synchrony" between two people there is mutual interest and approval.

2) Laughter and Yawning are equally contagious-- So after a loud yawn Laugh out Loud and let it be infectious.

3) When we disagree we are more sympathetic when the other person matches us-- One of the widespread applications of MBTI is "enhancing workplace communication". When delivering information in a style sensitive to the receiver (rather than the deliverer) individuals can be far more effective communicators. To do this an individual need not be trained it is simple observations at work that helps to deepen the connect. Managers beware you are being watched every breath and step you take.

A few Non-verbal behaviors to look out for when matching

A) Posture:- Sitting upright, leaning forward, slouched, legs crossed, shoulders tense or relaxed. So next time let's watch the posture of the participants in that all important meeting.

B) Movement:- Shifting legs, twiddling fingers...

C) Breathing:- It will be great to observe how is the general breathing pattern in the room, fast or slow, irregular or shallow and how it shifts.

D) Speech:- As the communication progresses how does the speech pattern change. Research suggests that we are more attracted to and comfortable with people whose conversational rhythms are similar to ours... so next time in a room full of strangers let's make our observations on who is tilting, siding with whom and what could be the reason. It need not be biases but it could be simple "matching and mirroring" behaviors.

The million dollar question is with the tectonic shifts in technology, communication being more virtual, humans being replaced by machines are "Matching and Mirroring" relevant. What will communications researchers posit now?