What does maintaining eye contact during a speech primarily convey to the audience?

Maintaining eye contact during a speech primarily conveys confidence and connection to the audience. This practice reinforces the speaker's assurance in their message, as it shows they are engaged and committed to communicating effectively. By looking at the audience, the speaker establishes a bond that fosters trust and makes the audience feel valued, which can enhance their receptiveness to the content being presented. Eye contact also encourages interaction, making the environment more engaging and dynamic, and allowing the speaker to gauge the audience's reactions in real-time. This interactive aspect plays a crucial role in effective communication, as it helps create a more personal and relatable atmosphere.

In contrast, options that focus on disinterest, preparedness for questions, or composure pertain to different aspects of public speaking. They do not encapsulate the primary purpose of eye contact as effectively as the idea of confidence and connection.