Certified Travel Agent Practice Test

What initial step should be taken to ensure that conflict is viewed positively within a team?

1. Implement strict rules

2. Regularly elicit and communicate true thoughts and feelings

3. Encourage silence and reflection

4. Focus solely on results

The correct answer is: Regularly elicit and communicate true thoughts and feelings

The initial step of regularly eliciting and communicating true thoughts and feelings is crucial in fostering a positive view of conflict within a team. This approach encourages open dialogue and honest expression, which helps to build trust and understanding among team members. By creating a safe environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their perspectives, it becomes easier to address differing opinions or disagreements constructively. When team members know they can voice their concerns and viewpoints without fear of retribution, it can lead to richer discussions and more innovative solutions. This open exchange allows conflicts to be seen not as threats, but as opportunities for growth and collaboration. By valuing each member's contribution and facilitating transparent communication, the team is more likely to reach consensus and develop stronger relationships, ultimately enhancing team dynamics. In contrast, implementing strict rules may stifle creativity and discourage individual expression, while encouraging silence could prevent important issues from being addressed. Focusing solely on results often disregards the underlying relationships and issues that need to be resolved for sustainable success. Thus, actively fostering communication is the most effective initial step in transforming conflict into a positive force within a team.