Make Eye Contact and Pause
Eye contact can be a powerful tool in any conversation, especially when you want someone to elaborate on what they’re saying without you having to ask directly. Humans and even animals instinctively feel uncomfortable with prolonged eye contact, which is why holding it can make someone feel the need to fill the silence.
The next time you’re in a conversation and you want more details or an explanation, try making strong eye contact and pausing for a moment. This non-verbal cue will often prompt the other person to expand on their point or provide further clarification, all without you uttering a word.