Let's please not let this thread turn into yet another debate on the existence of a higher power. the question assumes that one exists. Most of the prominent world religions have "prayer" in one form or another. Let's discuss these rather than if a deity exists to listen. Many religions have rules and strictures built in to allow the deity or higher power to hear and be moved.
Some use incense.
Some use animal sacrifice.
Some use time of day.
Some use posture.
Some use location.
Some use direction.
Some use particular clothing.
These topics seem much more edifying than simply bickering about the existence of the Christian God.