<p>Nonverbal stuff that should be part of good practice:</p> <p>Things to keep in mind:&#160;</p> <ol> <li>Clear a space on your desk so all attention is focused on the student.</li> <li>Do not be tempted to look at other things, including documents, a computer screen, or a cell phone.</li> <li>Arrange chairs in a small circle and/or come out from behind a desk.</li> <li>Don't stare but make eye contact during the entire conversation. The listener should focus on the speaker about 80 percent of the time.</li> <li>In most cases, the student should do most of the speaking.</li> <li>Students will understand that you're giving a valuable commodity, your time&#160;</li> </ol>