What is a crucial non-verbal skill to develop for effective communication?

Maintaining eye contact is a crucial non-verbal skill for effective communication because it demonstrates attentiveness and sincerity in the interaction. When you maintain eye contact, it shows the speaker that you are engaged and actively listening, which fosters trust and empathy. This non-verbal cue can signal that you value the conversation and are focused on the content being shared. Eye contact also helps establish a connection between individuals, making communication more effective overall.

In contrast, using confusing body language can create misunderstandings and distract from the message being conveyed. Looking away during discussions often conveys disinterest or discomfort, which can hinder rapport-building. Exhibiting a closed body posture, such as crossed arms, can also signal defensiveness or disengagement, which are counterproductive to effective communication.