Don't assume that making eye contact is ok.

There are many cultures in North America that are ok with eye contact, and if they are then you should definitely make it. It will help you to retain information. That being said, there are some cultures that consider eye contact rude. If someone isn't looking at you in the eye, don't assume they aren't listening. On the other hand, if making eye contact seems to be making someone squirm, find out why.