1. Allow time for the person to speak. He may speak slower than you are used to.
2. Avoid the urge to interrupt or complete the sentence for the person.
3. Do not take over the conversation.
4. If you do not understand what the person said, ask for repetition.
5. Do not pretend you have understood if you haven’t.
6. Ask if there is somebody close by who may be able to interpret.
7. If despite all you are unsuccessful, ask if the message is urgent.
Most importantly, ask someone themselves how they want to be addressed, and how they want to be supported or treated.
