What helps teams perform at their best under pressure? Research points to something often overlooked: rapport.
In a recent article on new research, Jeffrey Sanchez-Burks, a Michigan Ross professor and Sanger Research Lab member, explores how interpersonal rapport shapes team performance in high-stakes environments. His work shows that rapport—defined by positivity, mutual liking, and coordination—is not just a “soft” social factor, but a critical driver of how effectively teams operate under pressure.
Drawing on studies of flight crews navigating complex simulations, the research finds that teams with stronger rapport perform significantly better. Subtle forms of interpersonal coordination—how team members sync their communication and actions—emerge as a key predictor of success, even in highly technical settings.
In high-stakes environments, how teams connect and coordinate can make the difference between good and exceptional performance.