Through the Eyes: The Silent Power of Connection
When you talk about the body language aspect of communication, EYE CONTACT is considered as the start-up.
It provides the foundation of where the conversation is going to lead and helps build a connection between two parties… Eye contact paves the way for the choice of words ahead! It is undoubtedly an important ingredient of non-verbal communication.
6 Reasons why Eye Contact is so important in any communication?
- Shows respect for others.
- Displays genuine interest.
- Reflects good etiquette and manners.
- Forms a good first impression.
- Displays confidence.
- Captivates the audience.
Scenario's where eye contact become extremely essential:
- Business meetings.
- Job Interviews.
- Presentation.
- Any one-to-one conversation.
- Congratulating or complementing someone.
- Introducing yourself or meeting someone.
- Expressing concern or passing on bad news.
In all of the above scenarios, you have to maintain perfect eye contact with customers, colleagues and audience to gain their attention, sustain their attention, display your confidence level; show that you respect their time & presence and are actively listening.
Eye contact can begin to get awkward if you are engaged in a one-to-one conversation. Especially, if you are in a meeting or a job interview or if it is online via a video chat or zoom call…
In meetings or presentation, where you have multiple audience, you can sweep your eyes across the room from one individual to another at regular intervals i.e every 5-7 seconds; not immediately as it can distract the audience and come across as being nervous . But if there is only one individual you are conversing with, eye contact can start to get awkward. Don’t let that awkwardness take over your chain of thought.
Listening also requires eye contact …. You must maintain eye contact for 70-80% of the time whilst you are listening to show respect and that your are actively listening.
