Clear roles, constant communication, and a solid backup plan are my go-to practices. I also make sure we do a quick check-in before the event to calm nerves and hype each other up. Post-event, we celebrate—even if it’s just a quick virtual toast!

"Establish clear roles, set expectations early, and foster open communication to ensure everyone is aligned. Regular check-ins and a collaborative approach minimize conflicts and keep the event running smoothly."

1. Foster Open Communication: Clear and frequent communication ensures everyone understands their roles and expectations. I schedule regular check-ins to address concerns early, minimizing misunderstandings and fostering collaboration. 2. Define Roles Clearly: Assigning specific responsibilities based on each member’s strengths helps eliminate overlap and confusion. This aligns with my experience in team management and ensures smooth execution under pressure. 3. Stay Calm and Empathetic: Maintaining composure and showing empathy during tense situations helps de-escalate conflicts. I focus on solutions, creating a supportive environment where the team feels heard and motivated.

To avoid clashes during high-stakes virtual events: 1. Define Roles Clearly: Assign tasks and ensure everyone knows their responsibilities. 2. Communicate Effectively: Use a single platform and hold regular check-ins. 3. Practice Active Listening: Acknowledge concerns and foster collaboration. 4. Set Ground Rules: Agree on deadlines, protocols, and maintain professionalism. 5. Plan for Contingencies: Prepare for technical issues or schedule changes. 6. Stay Composed: Lead by example and manage stress proactively. Clear communication, mutual respect, and strategic planning keep teams aligned under pressure.

Practice with recording a backup with people in the room first. It’s that simple. I have my spouse join practice virtual calls all the time and just mute herself to expand our ability to win in these high stress moments by getting the first one and all its mistakes out of the way seamlessly. Then watch it and further your ability to host and deliver virtually.

This requires a structured and empathetic approach to prevent team clashes: 01. Set Clear Expectations: Define roles, deadlines, and outcomes upfront to avoid misunderstandings. 02. Encourage Transparent Communication: Foster an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing thoughts and concerns to build trust and avoid tension. 03. Establish a Feedback Loop: Schedule regular check-ins for updates and adjustments to catch potential issues early. 04. Prioritize Flexibility: Be adaptable when unexpected challenges arise, adjusting roles and strategies as needed. 05. Support Team Morale: Acknowledge stress and celebrate small wins to maintain a positive and collaborative atmosphere.

Some of the things that I find helps with navigating this path are: Open, yet structured, communication- you need to make sure that there is a hierarchy for communication so that chat/email threads do not become crowded and you miss valuable feedback through the noise. Clear, strong organization- I was always reminded, by a former DM of mine, that you put “your aces in their places”. So that means putting qualified, and fully-vetted, people in their places who have strong communication skills and making it official to the whole team in a way to ensure 100% adoption, or buy in, from the team. Finally, creating a realistic schedule of virtual/in-person team meetings to discuss issues, progress, etc. would be helpful. L10’s are awesome!