If your elementary teacher taught you not to look elders and superiors in the eye, Nigeria may have happened to you. 

Whilst it is considered respectful to stare at anything else but the person you are talking to in some cultures, this may just be why you never got called back after that interview. In the professional world, avoiding eye contact is often perceived as lack of confidence, boredom or dishonesty. E shock you, abi?

Even if you already knew this, you may still be fixing your gaze on the AC unit unknowingly, leaving your interviewer wondering if you are envying the role of the office technician. Don’t wait for panel interview or till you japa before you make a change. Get feedback from friends and close associates, practice in front of a mirror till you Sabi.

Whatever you do, please don’t practice with village elders as research has not advanced to that side yet. In the end, you still need to be savvy about cultural differences.