Clarify Expectations: Define roles and responsibilities at the start of projects to avoid misunderstandings. Encourage questions for clarity. Use Precise Language: Ensure communication is clear and free of jargon, especially in interdisciplinary teams. Foster Open Dialogue: Create a culture where team members can freely voice concerns or ask questions without fear of judgment. Practice Active Listening: Listen attentively and provide feedback to confirm understanding. Document Key Information: Record decisions, experiment details, and discussions to reduce misinterpretation and maintain clarity.

Set the right example: as the leader of the team or PI (principal investigator) it is important for him or her to provide a safe space for difficult conversations to take place. A laboratory where even the most junior member can bring up issues without repercussions, where misunderstanding are discussed early before they become too difficult to manage, and where resolutions are handled with compassion and understanding (not from a defensive and angry position) is ideal. Everyone needs to feel supported from day one, so that when misunderstandings eventually come up, they are dealt with fairly and honestly.