Tip One: With nonverbal communication, it's not how the sender feels that's most important; it's how the observer perceives how the sender feels

You may be more comfortable standing with your arms folded across your chest (or you may be cold), but others see you as resistant and unapproachable.

And keeping your hands stiffly by your side or stuck in your pockets can give the impression that you're insecure or hiding something - whether you are or not.

Tip Two: Watch those facial expressions!

In most of the debates, Senator Obama minimized his emotional reactions and reinforced the impression that he is remote and "cold." Senator McCain's forced grins and eye rolling in the third debate sent a negative signal that was reflected instantly in polls rating likeability: Obama scored 70% to McCain's 22%.

Tip Three: Don't underestimate the power of touch

Usually considered to be the most primitive and essential form of communication, we are programmed to feel closer to someone who's touched us. The person who touches also feels more connected. It's a compelling force and even momentary touching can create a human bond. A touch on the forearm that lasts a mere 1/40 of a second can make the receiver not only feel better but also see the giver as being kinder and warmer.

A study on handshakes by the Income Center for Trade Shows showed that people are twice as likely to remember you if you shake hands with them.

Tip Four: When your body language is out of sync with your words, people believe what they see

In the same way, a business leader who stands in front of a thousand employees - and talks about how much he welcomes their input - derails that message if he hides behind a lectern, or leans back away from his audience, or shoves his hands in his pockets. All of those send closed nonverbal signals - when the intended message is really about openness.

Tip Five: Remember - you are never "off camera"

As a leader, you are always communicating. People are unrelenting leader-watchers, and your "off-record" behaviors are being closely monitored. In the words of one savvy executive, "What I do in the hallway is more powerful than anything I say in the meeting room."