Tell yourself by looking into their eyes you will be believed, trusted, respected, etc. By giving yourself a reason to look into their eyes, the motivation will be there to overcome whatever phobia or concern is bothering you.
Try to look into their eyes 1/4 of the time they’re talking, and then other than that, just look around the room like you’re thinking about what was just said, or what you say.
I like gailcalled’s answer. :P
I try to make eye contact often, but cannot for the life of me maintain it for any length of time. I do pretty much what curious cat suggested, but probably more than 1/4 of the time.
If you don’t make eye contact, you can make other body motions to indicate you are still following with the conversation. I nod my head and make “mmm” sounds to agree from time to time. This also communicates that I understand what’s being talked about.
I should have clarified, a certain amount of eye contact is necessary with my technique. I always look people in the eyes while talking, pretty much 100% unless we’re doing a task, and I still use head nods and “mmm” sounds to reinforce that I understand what they’re saying. bodyhead does have a good point.