2. Speak in short sentences
It is like eating small bites of a sandwich. It is easier to chew and digest that way.

3. Use simple words
My high school principal once told me that "genius was in simplicity". I have never forgotten that principle. The next time your doctor begins to explain your medical condition, remind him what it takes to be a genius.

4. Avoid using abbreviations and slang
"FYI, the office is open to you 7/24/365. We encourage thinking out of the box".

5. Humor
Humor is great. There is nothing like humor to bond and bridge differences. However, be careful. It can be misinterpreted in different cultures and many experts will advise you against using humor with people who have English as a second language. I disagree and believe that if you are sure that you will not be misunderstood, there is nothing more powerful than a giggle for bonding.

6. Encourage people to ask questions
Most people who do not understand a word or sentence will smile or nod. They hope that they have or will get the gist of the message. This can lead to serious mistakes.

Whenever I consult with someone whose language I cannot speak, I apologize for not being able to speak their language and earnestly request that they ask me to repeat anything that I have not communicated properly. I explain that if I cannot communicate perfectly with my client, then I am failing at my job. I open the door to questions by making it comfortable and safe to ask questions.

7. Body language
Many experts discourage any use of body language because different cultures can interpret certain body signs in different ways. These experts believe that you can offend someone without even knowing it. I take a contrary view. I believe that you should use every means of communication available to you to express your thoughts. Sure, there are certain symbols and signs which have different meanings in different countries. The reality is that there are so few of these signs that the benefits of talking with your hands outweigh the remote possibility for offense.

8. Use common sense
Language is the best form of communication. Yet we sometimes offend our friends and loved ones through miscommunication and misunderstanding. If this can happen to two people who speak the same language, share the same culture and love each other, it is far more likely to occur when people do not share these common bonds

Be aware of what you are saying, how it is being received, and what response you are getting. Be more aware than usual.

Beware: The fact that you sent the memo does not mean that everyone got it.