Meet with a colleague or leader who is a successful inspirational and focused communicator to learn tips and tricks. Ask them to read and comment upon a message that you are trying to convey to your team.

Look through The Book of Beautiful Questions and select a few to use the next time you are in a setting where you know few people.

Lead a community service team.

Jot a few notes or talking points before you meet someone for a difficult conversation. Practice with someone ahead of time.

Join the public relations or communications committee of an organization outside of work to hone communication skills.

Invite others to review and offer input on a document or website that you are creating for a particular audience.

Invite a friend or family member with whom you are having a dispute to go out for coffee to seek better understanding of their perspectives and engage in a thoughtful conversation.

Insert success stories or positive client feedback in communications to your team.

In your next meeting, paraphrase your understanding so that information can be clarified if necessary.

In an informational talk to a small group, periodically check in to gauge the level of understanding and take any questions.