The Power of Presence: Why Eye Contact and Body Language Matter in Networking
In the digital age, we’ve become masters of the screen—quick to reply, quick to scroll, and often quicker to look away. But when it comes to building authentic professional relationships, what we do off the screen matters just as much—if not more. Eye contact and body language are foundational to effective networking, yet they’ve become quietly eroded by our screen-centric habits, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic.
Why Eye Contact Feels Harder Now
During the height of COVID-19, we shifted nearly every aspect of connection to a digital format—Zoom meetings, FaceTime calls, DMs, and texts. While these tools kept us in touch, they also limited our non-verbal communication. Now, as we return to in-person events, networking mixers, and professional interviews, making eye contact can feel surprisingly vulnerable—even awkward.
Eye contact, though small in gesture, signals attention, confidence, and respect. It’s how we show we’re truly present in a conversation. Avoiding it, on the other hand, can inadvertently communicate disinterest or insecurity. It’s not that we’ve forgotten how to connect—it’s just that we’ve gotten out of practice.
Rebuilding Human Connection
If you’ve felt socially rusty lately, you’re not alone. One way to rebuild those vital interpersonal muscles is by intentionally creating more one-on-one conversations—not just with friends, but with mentors, professors, or even people outside your usual age group. Talking with someone a few decades older (or younger!) than you offers the added benefit of broadening your perspective while sharpening your conversational skills.
Here are a few ways to ease back into human connection:
Practice “tech-free” meetups: Leave your phone in your bag during coffee chats or lunch meetings.
Join professional clubs or organizations: Look for ones that prioritize in-person gatherings or mentorship programs.
Reach out for informational interviews: Ask someone in a role you admire if they’d be open to a short conversation—you’ll get valuable insights and practice your presence.
Body Language: Your Silent First Impression
Whether you’re at a networking event, career fair, or walking into a job interview, your body often speaks before you do. Standing up straight, making eye contact, and offering a confident handshake are basic cues that help others assess your professionalism and approachability.
Small changes can have a big impact:
Posture: Stand tall. It’s an instant signal of confidence and engagement.
Facial expressions: A genuine smile and alert eyes go a long way.
Hand gestures: Use them naturally to emphasize points, but don’t overdo it.
Fidgeting: Be mindful—excessive movement or checking your phone can make you seem distracted.
When you align your words with strong body language and intentional eye contact, you create a cohesive presence that people remember—and trust.
Relearning how to be fully present in conversation is a skill worth investing in. Networking isn’t just about handing out business cards or perfecting your LinkedIn profile—it’s about making real human connections. In a world increasingly dominated by digital noise, eye contact and body language are two of the most powerful tools you have to cut through it and be seen.
So the next time you walk into a room—pause, look up, stand tall, and meet someone’s eyes. That simple moment of connection might just be the start of your next big opportunity.