Body poses to speak your mind without saying a word

The Triangle-in-Forehead Focus

Roslyn suggests a 4-second look into someone's eyes when being introduced. "Imagine looking at a triangle in the middle of her forehead," she suggests. That way, you won't be staring directly, which could creep someone out. One way to make casual, friendly eye contact is to take quick notice of the color of your new friend's eyes.

The Smile-and-Nod Maneuver

Once the introductions are out of the way, focus on what your new friend has to say. It's common courtesy--if you're in the middle of a story and notice people looking around the room, don't you think, "Hello? Are you listening to me"? Look attentive to let the person know you're into the conversation. No need to interrupt. Just smile. And nod.

The Mental Conversation Checklist

Your turn to talk, and you can't think of a thing to say? Make a mental checklist ahead of time about what to discuss with new friends during situations where conversations might drag. Be prepared with some "safe" topics to talk about. If you love going to the movies, ask a new friend what she thought of Josh Duhamel in Win a Date With Tad Hamilton! When you feel comfortable talking about something, your body language will be calm and casual, and so will your voice.

The Non-Intimidator

When talking with new chums, don't ever stand up while others are sitting down--it can come off as intimidating. Instead, pull up a chair and sit next to them. Also, it's OK to hug close friends or grab their hands in excitement, but it's best not to do that with new buds. Some girls may feel uncomfortable if you suddenly touch them. Save the affectionate stuff for your old pals.

You want to stay out late to hit a party with a group of friends, but your 'rents don't approve. You're tempted to whine, but you learned a long time ago that “hissy” fits get you nowhere. So how do you negotiate with the 'rents?

To be taken seriously, let your body language do some of the talking. The way you project yourself around your parents (and other figures of authority) determines how you will be treated in return. No foot stomping allowed!

The Princess Arm Placement

First off, do not cross your arms! Crossing your arms in front of your chest gives off a "stay away from me/I'm not worthy of your attention" vibe. It can also emit a confrontational "Oh, yeah?" mood. Not the message you want to project! And while your arms are uncrossed, avoid flailing. "Excess hand movements are distracting and take away from what you are saying," says Roslyn. So, what to do with your hands? Place them straight down at your side or gently fold them in your lap--think princess!

The Eye-to-Mouth Method

Of course, eye contact is always important. But looking an authority figure (that would be your parental figure) straight in the eye can seem threatening. So look at his mouth instead. That way, you won't be distracted by your dad's icy stare while you're trying to make your case. And be conscious of your choice of words. It's totally cool to use "like" and "awesome" around your buds but, with adults, you don't want to sound too young. "Annunciate clearly, but don't be cocky," warns image consultant Zacki Murphy. "Manners are important."

The To-a-Tee Posture

Ten-shun! If you're hitting a parent up for extra privileges, don't slouch over with your head down. You want to appear mature and serious. Zacki suggests making your body into a T, shoulders lined straight. "Slouching looks sloppy," she says. If you're seated, sit up and cross your legs at the ankles.

The Lean-In Listening Technique

Be sure to face your parents when you have The Discussion. Keep your eyes on them, lean forward and nod slowly when they make an important point. This technique also works in the classroom--research shows that teachers respond better to students who appear interested and motivated. And, just like in school, nix the gum-chewing when you're trying to talk to the folks. It can make you come off as silly and trivial-minded.

Yikes! Oral-presentation time! This grade is sooo crucial to your final report-card mark. OK, breathe, stay calm ... and don't panic.

Even celebrities 'fess up that they have major stage fright when giving acceptance speeches (you know, for those Oscars) in front of an audience. If you freak out about public speaking, relax--you can fake it. With the right body language, no one will even know your knees are knocking.

The Stay-Calm Stroll

When speaking in front of a classroom (or onstage), the key to staying calm is to stroll ever so slightly. Shift your feet two or three tiny baby-steps forward, then back. People probably won't even notice your bottom half is moving, because they're watching the upper part of your body as you speak. And that's why you shouldn't fiddle with your earrings. Focus on the paper in front of you or the poster you made.

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