Researchers have found that those who read and interpret nonverbal behaviors effectively and thus manage the impression they make on others are more successful than those who do not possess this particular skill (Goleman, 1995, 13-92). The aim of this book is to teach you how to observe the world around you and to determine the meaning of nonverbal communication in every situation. This valuable knowledge will improve your interactions with others and benefit your life, just as it benefited mine.

One of the fascinating aspects of nonverbal behavior is that it is characterized by universality. It applies wherever there are people communicating with each other. Nonverbal communication is reliable and can be found everywhere. Once you learn the meaning of a nonverbal behavior, you can use this information in many different situations and in all kinds of environments. In fact, it is difficult to interact effectively with others without nonverbal communication.

If you have ever wondered why, in the age of computers, text messages, emails, telephones, and teleconferences, there are people who take a plane to attend a business meeting, the reason is that there is a need to express themselves nonverbally and to observe the nonverbal behavior of others.