How should you chat with someone who is deaf or hard of hearing?

I'm out on the road a lot currently, training and chatting with staff, friends and support networks of our clients.    I've noticed that one question that is ever present.  'How do I communicate well with...' 
A hearing person can feel that there maybe a communication barrier between themselves and people who are deaf or hard of hearing, our differences are what make us and really shouldn't keep us from communicating effectively and naturally with one another.... So lets get it right first time, every time.

BODY POSITIONING 
This may sound obvious but when you are chatting, make sure you position yourself well.   Face the person you are communicating with.  This will mean they can lip-read and pick up your emotions or hear you if they are hard of hearing.  Also make sure that you don't stand too far away from them or indeed too close, one is just as bad as the other when trying to understand conversation.   Respecting someones personal space is paramount.
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REPEAT
If you are asked to repeat yourself don't get frustrated, don't try to simplify what you are trying to say, instead, ensure that you are speaking clearly and not mumbling, remember your body positioning, then calmly repeat yourself.  Don't be tempted to say 'never mind' or 'don't worry about it'.  People will naturally find this rude and may feel isolated or left out of the conversation.

ENVIRONMENT
Be aware of what is going on around you.  If there is a lot of background noise it maybe difficult for someone deaf or hard of hearing to decipher what you are saying.  Try to eliminate background noise where possible, if the noise cant be eliminated, be prepared to repeat yourself, speak up or write things down.

ATTENTION 
Gain the persons attention before you start speaking.  Make sure that you have eye contact, if they are not looking at  you, gesture or gently tap them to make sure they are engaged and ready for conversation.

BODY MOVEMENT AND GESTURES
A big NO is covering your mouth with your hands, we all do it, especially when laughing during conversation.  It can make it very difficult if someone is lipreading to understand you.  Keep eye contact and avoid looking away, turning your head etc so that you remain engaged with the person you are chatting to.

PATIENCE
Don't get frustrated with someone if they need you to repeat yourself, understand that it is more frustrating for them. Having patience, speaking clearly and making eye contact are small gestures that can make a massive difference in keeping communication smooth.  Never give up on the person you are chatting with.  
Always remember that Audiology Associates are here to assist with your hearing health.  If you recognise the need to adopt the above steps with a friend or relative that has had a decline in their hearing, get in touch.  The team are always happy to help.  In the mean time adopt the above and remember... Speak in such a way that others love to listen to you... Listen in such a way that others leave to speak to you.