Eye contact is important to Americans. When an American is talking to someone who is not making eye contact with them, they think the person is not interested in what they are saying. If you are the one talking and not looking at the person to whom you are speaking, they will think you are not telling the truth. Looking in the eyes is crucial to interpersonal communication skills with Americans.

It can be hard to know how long to look in the eyes. Some groups suggest 5-7 seconds at a time is appropriate. Click on the 10 tips link to the right. It provides great suggestions for how to become comfortable with making prolonged eye contact.