Final answer:
It is true that maintaining direct eye contact with a customer is essential as it helps to convey engagement and trustworthiness. However, it should not be excessive to avoid discomfort. Body language is also key in effective customer interaction.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is generally true that you should maintain direct eye contact with your customer. Direct eye contact signifies that you are fully engaged in the interaction and helps in building trust and rapport. However, it is equally important not to overdo it as staring or maintaining eye contact for too long may become uncomfortable and be perceived as aggressive. It's a balance of being attentive without making the other person feel scrutinized.
In addition to eye contact, remember that body language plays a crucial role when interacting with customers. Your stance, movements, and facial expressions all contribute to the message you convey. Subtle cues from the customer can guide you to adjust your nonverbal communication for a more effective and comfortable conversation.
Furthermore, during public speaking or presentations, like in an interview setting, eye contact can help hold the audience's attention. This nonverbal cue helps to establish the speaker's credibility and connect with the audience. Experts often recommend memorizing parts of your speech, particularly the opening and closing, to ensure that you can maintain eye contact during these critical moments without having to read from your notes.