1. Do not isolate themselves from others. Keep your team together. Do not let players or groups do their own thing.

2. Make it easy for teammates to communicate with them. Great leaders and communicators are easily accessible by their teammates. Most communication problems can be solved by proximity.

3. Follow the 24-hour rule. When conflict arises, many ignore the problem. Time DOES NOT heal wounds. Talk through issues or they will grow.

4. Give attention to potentially difficult relationships. Put time into these relationships.

5. Follow up important communication in writing. The more difficult the level of communication, the more important it is to work to keep it clear and simple. Ex. playbooks, vows, contracts, etc.

Credit: Jerry Wainwright’s Basketball Notes