If your workplace is like most, chances are your employees come from increasingly diverse social, ethnic and educational backgrounds.

That can make written and verbal communications alike tough. Here are four ways to get over the hump:

1. Focus first on employee impact

No matter the employee’s background, the first thing he or she usually wants to know is how a benefits policy or a certain change directly affects him or her.

You can never go wrong by starting with this area, and then back-tracking to explain the context.

2. Stick to common goals

It’s very easy for messages to accidentally create distance between yourself and some employees.

Example: promoting “retirement savings” as the main selling point for the 401(k) plan. For young and lower-wage employees, saving money may not be a top priority. Additionally, in some foreign cultures, retirement planning is rare except among the wealthy.

A more universal goal: being able to afford to stop working.  When promoted that way, some firms have seen stronger 401(k) participation.

3. Invite private questions

In live presentations, invite employees to ask one-on-one questions after the session. In memos, let employees know when you’re most available to answer their questions.

Reason: In some cultures, it’s considered rude or humiliating to question a manager (especially in front of co-workers). That even includes asking for clarification.