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Peer Tutoring Handbook

Building Rapport & Making Connections
Using proper body language

Building Rapport & Making Connections

​When you first meet, you should

  1. Make eye contact with the student

  2. Introduce yourself

  3. Shake hands with the student

  4. Smile and act friendly

​

As you work together, you want to be aware of the signals you are sending as well as the signals your tutee is sending.  

  1. Pay attention. Make eye contact, nod your head, smile, and listen.

  2. Use probing questions.  Ask open-ended questions rather than yes or no questions.  Make sure to follow up for more information.

  3. Give positive feedback.  Try to be helpful and not critical.  Be specific.

  4. Restate or summarize.  This shows that you’re listening and ensures you’ve understood the tutee.  

Establishing a good rapport between the tutee and the tutor is essential in peer tutoring.  You often start as strangers, but your goal is to form a productive partnership.  You should be aware that your words and actions will be interpreted by your tutee and you should strive to stay positive.

Using proper body language

  1. Limit arm-folding. Folded arms communicate distance and create a barrier. Though you may simply fold your arms as a relaxed way to stand or to keep yourself warm, the gesture can be distancing to others no matter what the intention. 

  2. Avoid finger-pointing. This gesture is traditionally a reprimand, an accusation, a way of targeting the culprit. Instead, gesture to students with an open, upturned palm. 

  3. Show animation. Try to use your hands while you speak. Making hand motions increases the chances that people will pay attention to you.   Hand movements can also help clarify your points. 

  4. Keep your body relaxed. Tension spreads through people. When someone is nervous and tense, other people have that same sense of urgency. Take deep breaths and let yourself relax. Try to let arms hang loose and keep shoulders and head in a relaxed and straight position. 

  5. Facial expressions. Your facial expressions play a big part in projecting a good impression, so be sure to look interested by maintaining good eye contact, smiling and nodding appropriately while you listen. 

  6. Smile! Smiling adds warmth and an aura of confidence. Others will be more receptive if you remember to check your expression. 

When establishing a rapport and working with a tutee your body language is just as important as your verbal language.

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