More eye contact is NOT better eye contact.

Most advice on eye contact centers on the premise that you’re just not making enough eye contact.

“Make strong eye contact. Don’t waver or glance away. Hold it like you’re facing an oncoming bear. Make your strength and presence known.”

That’s wrong.

This results in what I like to call zombie eyes – zombie eyes are expressionless and emotionless, and make you feel like someone is trying to drill a hole in your head with their eyes. Not ideal.

How do you avoid zombie eyes?

Here’s a simple exercise I like to avoid zombie eyes:Attempt to have a conversation with someone where you can’t talk, and can only express yourself with your facial expressions. See exactly how much emotion your face conveys and see how much you need to say what you want!

For more eye contact tips from years of teaching it, check out my book Superhuman Eye Contact: How to Radiate Confidence, Attract Others, and Demand Respect!

If you haven’t grabbed it yet, click here for FREE access to The Flawless Interaction Checklist – learn how to connect with people, crush awkward silence, and guarantee great conversations.