In today’s global, complex, and hybrid business environment, the role of Human Resources leaders has become more challenging than ever. One of the most critical skills required to navigate this maze is the ability to communicate clearly, confidently, and effectively, especially under high-pressure situations. Whether it’s an employee engagement meeting, a crisis communication plan, or a pitch to the C-suite, the ability to convey your message confidently is critical.

However, let’s address the elephant in the room—communicating under pressure is daunting. Even the most experienced HR leaders can falter when the stakes are high. So how do you manage this pressure? How do you ensure that your communication is both effective and impactful? Here are six science-backed, tried-and-true steps that can help you accomplish just that.

1. Invoke a Positive Stress Mindset
First, let’s debunk the myth that all stress is harmful. Stress can actually be your friend if you know how to harness it. When your body experiences stress, it’s preparing you to face the challenge ahead. Your senses become sharper, your focus narrows, and you become more alert—these are all good things when you need to communicate under pressure. By adopting a positive stress mindset, you can turn what is often perceived as a negative experience into an empowering one. So, the next time you feel your heart rate rise before a big presentation, don’t dread it; embrace it.

2. Focus on the Outcome, Not the Fear
Fear can be paralyzing, especially when you’re concerned about how your message will be received. But what if you shift your focus from the fear of failure to the potential for success? For example, instead of worrying about how employees will react to a new policy, concentrate on the benefits it will bring to them and the broader organization and articulate these effectively. By focusing on the positive outcomes, you not only quell your fears but also engage better with your audience.

3. Embrace Technology for Preparation
We are in the golden age of technology, and there’s no reason not to leverage this to improve your communication skills. From Virtual Reality (VR) to Artificial Intelligence (AI), these technologies can provide realistic simulations, immediate feedback, and even stress tests to prepare you for the real deal. Imagine rehearsing your quarterly review presentation in a VR environment that mimics your actual boardroom—by the time you get to the real presentation, you’ll be a pro.

4. Get Excited and Channel Your Energy
Most advice you’ll hear about managing anxiety will tell you to calm down. Here’s a counter-intuitive idea—get excited instead. When you’re excited, your body’s physiological response is similar to when you’re anxious, but your mindset is entirely different. Instead of focusing on what could go wrong, you look forward to what can go right. This shift in perspective can drastically improve your performance.

5. F-Bomb Your Fear
No, I’m not advocating for profanity in professional settings. In this context, “F-Bomb” stands for “Framing-Bomb.” Essentially, it’s about reframing the way you perceive your nervousness. Instead of viewing it as a hindrance, see it as a sign of your commitment and involvement. Recognizing that your anxiety comes from a place of caring can help you channel that energy into a more effective presentation or conversation.

6. Utilize the Power of Pausing
In our haste to get our message across, we often overlook the power of a well-placed pause. Not only does pausing allow you to collect your thoughts, but it also gives your audience a moment to absorb and reflect on what you’ve said. It’s a simple yet powerful tool that can dramatically improve the quality of your communication.

In conclusion, the ability to communicate confidently under pressure is not just a skill but a necessity for today’s HR leaders. By implementing these six steps—invoking a positive stress mindset, focusing on outcomes, embracing technological aids, getting excited, reframing your fears, and utilizing pauses—you can transform your communication style. So go ahead, put these tips into practice and prepare to be amazed at how they can make your professional—and even personal—communication more effective and impactful. After all, effective communication is the cornerstone of great leadership.

Matt Abrahams is a lecturer at Stanford Graduate School of Business, the author of Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You’re Put on the Spot and Speaking Up Without Freaking Out