Mixed signals happen when body language and words don’t match, which can make communication confusing. Body language reflects internal emotions, including feelings people may try to hide or control.

Our choices and actions send messages to others about our values. Consider a manager who communicates to her employees in a call center that “customer care is the most important thing for our company.

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Scott Hutcheson teaches leadership at Purdue University. Markets, teams, and individuals are wired to seek coherence. Our brains ...