Here's how you can proactively prevent conflicts in a remote work setting.

Defining roles, responsibilities, and deadlines clearly has been vital in my remote work settings. Regularly updating and reviewing these expectations ensures everyone is on the same page, avoiding confusion and conflicts over task ownership and timelines.

Just as there are expectations for employee behavior, workers should expect certain behaviors and opportunities from their employers.

In my experience, establishing clear communication channels and protocols is crucial to keeping everyone aligned. I've found that using video calls for complex discussions and instant messaging for quick updates helps prevent misunderstandings and conflicts.

Each company may set additional expectations of their employees and provide more for them in return, but it is a give and take.

Conflict is not always bad; in fact, it can lead to deeper discussions and better decisions. In diverse teams, healthy conflicts are expected. Team members should know each other well, understand their contexts, and build a psychologically safe environment. Effective teams create a charter that includes conflict management strategies. Once all team members agree on how to acknowledge and manage conflict, it's about following the charter.

Team expectations are similar to individual expectations, except that team expectations are something every team member should be accountable for while also holding others accountable.

Goals are typically tasks that need to be accomplished, whereas team expectations are for the behaviors that occur while the team accomplishes said tasks.

Building trust is easier in well-connected teams. In virtual settings, the approach to team building needs to adapt. Effective adjustments require a good understanding of platforms, features, and tools, as well as creative ways to generate interest and bring people together.

Encouraging an inclusive work culture has always been important to me. Actively involving all team members in discussions and decision-making processes, and respecting diverse perspectives, has helped create a collaborative environment and reduce potential conflicts.

It is important to set clear employee and performance expectations for each new person during the onboarding process. Be specific and clear as to what the expectations are and how you will measure them.

Each employee also needs to understand the importance of their role and how their responsibilities impact their organization and department.

Giving and receiving feedback has a cultural bearing and the mode plays a major role. When remote working, take special care to ensure the person you are giving feedback to is in a position to receive it. Do not assume the circumstance of an individual. Be respectful, well intentioned and constructive. Offer support and help to make the situation better for all.

Offering resources and support for conflict resolution has made a big difference in my remote teams. Access to HR, mediation services, or conflict management training empowers employees to address issues proactively and constructively, maintaining a harmonious work environment.