Page 153 - Perfect Phrases ESL Everyday Business
P. 153
Appendix A
The American Business
Culture in a Nutshell
Eye Contact
When you make eye contact, people may see you as honest, trust-
worthy, and interested in a conversation. When you do not make eye
contact, people may see you as dishonest, shy, rude, or not interested
in the conversation. Good eye contact does not mean staring. When
you make eye contact, it is not polite to look into the person’s eyes for
an entire conversation without ever turning your eyes away. Staring
is considered rude. When you shake people’s hands, notice their eye
color. This will force you to look them in the eye.
Smiling
Even on the phone, people can hear your smile in your voice. Over the
phone, people might think you are sad or angry by your tone of voice.
It’s very difficult to sound sad or angry when you are smiling.
135
