Final Top Tips for Effective Communication

Take regular breaks throughout the day. The more calm and centred you are, the better you are at handling tough conversations when they arise.
Slow down the pace of the conversation. Ask for a pause if you feel that you might benefit from one. These pauses can help you find the right words and it signals to your counterpart that you care.
Don’t describe conversations as ‘difficult’. It can automatically put you in a frame of mind that anticipates challenge, tense up and make things harder.
Remember that as humans, we are prone to making assumptions without first getting all the facts. Instead, make sure you understand the context of the conversation and try to frame the discussion in a positive or even neutral light if that helps.
Don’t write a script for important conversations. Be sure to stay open and present to what is happening in the conversation. Most of the time, all we need to do is listen a little harder.