In a retail environment, body language can make a significant difference in sales effectiveness because the way a person sits, stands or gestures sends a strong message.  Crossed arms, for example, communicate "Keep your distance, don't come too close."

Conversely, making eye contact with potential customers projects warmth and friendliness.  And following up eye contact with a friendly greeting like "How are you today?" or "Hello," rather than the flat, often insincere "May I help you?" standard, can have a dramatic effect on business.  In one study, asking "Have you been in our store before?" instead of "May I help you?" increased sales by as much as 17 percent.