How nonverbal communications affect rapport introduced the concept of rapport in conversations. Three broad concepts govern how well we communicate with another person: words, voice, and physiology. In reality, words contribute very little to how a message is perceived by someone else. Voice, however, has the second largest impact on how someone perceives your message.
Vocal volume - different styles
in general, someone who is primarily a visual communicator will have faster and louder speech than someone who is auditory or kinesthetic (driven by feelings or emotions). The auditory person's voice will be more rhythmic, may include word being punctuated, and will demonstrate a sensitivity to sounds. The kinesthetic will have slower speech, a lower volume and tonality than a visual or auditory.
Volume and rapport
We all recognize the disastrous effects that volume can have on two people establishing rapport. For instance, you're on a date and whisper something sweet to your companion when he yells back at you. Okay, that guy definitely has poor interpersonal skills. But what about when you're communicating with someone who naturally speaks louder or softer than you? What should you do?
One technique would be to try matching the other person's volume. Whether they speak louder or softer than you, by matching their volume, you should be able to slowly begin leading them to a more comfortable volume. If rapport exists between you, the other person will likely follow your lead and adjust his volume to match yours. Rather than this process being like a speedboat able to make a quick right turn, think of it as a cruise ship slowly steering in a new direction. The key is to take it slowly.
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