One conflict management style is avoidance. We discussed last week the value of avoiding temporarily to allow members to calm down when emotions are high. The problem occurs when people avoid dealing with conflict as a way of life. When members avoid bringing up problems or discrepancies in a project, it can cause schedule slips, resulting in costs going up, and in some cases, risks may include safety of lives.

Leadership should always create an environment that encourages effective communication, diverse perspectives, and a safe place for problem solving.

Describe how you will encourage the avoiders in your team to participate.