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.

Give a presentation on behalf of your department at a workshop or conference.

For your next important conversation, write bullet points beforehand highlighting the main points that you wish to convey. Practice expressing your points with a colleague and solicit feedback.

For one day, notice when and how often you interrupt someone while they speak. Wait until they are finished before asking questions.