A growing body of research suggests that the most effective way to influence and lead is to begin with warmth.  Warmth is proving to be the conduit of influence and appears to facilitate trust and the communication and absorption of ideas.  Small nonverbal signals, such as a nod, a smile, or even an open gesture sends the message that you’re happy to be in the company of others and focused on their concerns.  Making warmth a priority helps you connect with those around you, which demonstrates that you hear, understand and can be trusted by them. Maya Angelou said it best, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”