Eye contact is described as the most influential non-verbal facet of communication.

• A. It is the least influential non-verbal facet of communication
• B. It is the most influential non-verbal facet of communication
• C. It has no impact on instructor presence
• D. It should be avoided during lectures

Answer: (B)

Eye contact is a powerful non-verbal cue because it directly signals attention, engagement, and credibility. When a lecturer maintains steady eye contact, students feel seen, perceive the speaker as confident, and are more likely to stay focused and trust the message. This directly enhances instructor presence—the sense that the presenter is aware of the audience, can read reactions, and guide the discussion. Claiming it has no impact on presence ignores how non-verbal signals shape perceptions of authority and attentiveness, and suggesting it should be avoided during lectures would reduce connection and comprehension. While other non-verbal cues matter, eye contact often carries the strongest immediate effect on engagement and trust.