Do you ever feel like your usual approach to leadership isn’t cutting it anymore? This may be because not all leadership challenges are the same, and the educational landscape is shifting faster than ever. Some problems need expertise and efficiency, while others demand innovation and a fresh perspective. The ability to switch between technical leadership and adaptive leadership is what sets great leaders apart. Drawing from my experience as a superintendent, here are five practical tips to help you navigate both styles effectively.

1. Know When to Switch Gears

Not all problems are alike. Technical leadership is perfect when the solution is clear, and you can apply established methods. For example, if your team needs to implement a known process, rely on your expertise to guide them. But when you’re facing a problem that isn’t well-defined or has no obvious solution, you need to shift to adaptive leadership. Adaptive challenges require you to step outside of what’s familiar and encourage your team to experiment.

Practitioner’s tip: Ask yourself, “Do I already know how to approach this problem, or do we need to think differently here?” This simple question can help you determine which leadership style to use.

2. Step Back and See the Bigger Picture (Get on the Balcony)

When leading through change, one of the most important things you can do is step back and look at the bigger picture—what adaptive leaders call “getting on the balcony.” When I first started managing my team in Lake Forest Districts 67 and 115, I noticed that most of the team was focused on the day-to-day tasks, which led to missing signals that the districts needed a strategic shift. Once we collectively stepped back, it became clear where we could improve and that we needed to build consensus. This led us to a community-driven Portrait of a Learner and strategic planning process. The broader view that came with being new now requires deliberate effort to step out to see the larger picture. Regardless of how you get to the balcony, the view allows leaders to anticipate challenges, recognize opportunities, and navigate uncertainty. 

Practitioner’s tip: Ask your team to set aside time weekly to pause and assess the bigger picture. What’s changing around you that could impact the organization?”

3. Lead Through Influence, Not Just Authority

Great leadership isn’t about holding a title—it’s about mobilizing people to tackle tough problems. Adaptive leadership requires building trust, influencing your team, and guiding them through uncertainty. I once worked with a supervisor who led by influence rather than authority. Even without a formal title, they inspired everyone to step up during a crisis. That’s the power of adaptive leadership: it encourages buy-in and ownership from your team.

Practitioner’s tip: Next time you’re dealing with a complex problem, focus on empowering your team. Ask for their ideas, and let them take ownership of solutions.

4. Ditch the Old Playbook When It’s Not Working

Sometimes, old methods no longer serve you or your team. Adaptive leadership is about recognizing when it’s time to let go of antiquated strategies. I’ve seen this firsthand when my team clung to approaches that were no longer effective as we transitioned to remote work. It wasn’t until we let go of those habits that we found better ways to collaborate and communicate.

In District 67, the English Language Arts curriculum was proving ineffective for many of our students.  Our data showed little growth and low proficiency numbers compared to other districts.  As a superintendent new to the district, it was important to engage stakeholder feedback in order to effect buy-in among our teachers, students,  and community.  In working alongside teachers and administrators, we piloted and adopted a program that has, in its first year of implementation, paid dividends in the growth and achievement of our students.  

In District 115, we gathered feedback from teachers and staff indicating that previous professional learning wasn’t aligned with the needs of students. Instead of bringing in a new outside consultant, we empowered teams of administrators, teachers, and staff to work together to find a solution. This resulted in an educator-driven professional development model granting teachers greater ownership of their professional development and influence on our strategic planning.

Practitioner’s tip: If something isn’t working, don’t be afraid to ditch it. Encourage your team to experiment with new ideas, even if it means taking risks.

5. Find Your Balance Between Both Leadership Styles

The most successful leaders bundle technical and adaptive leadership. Use technical leadership when you need to focus on efficiency and processes in stable environments. But when change hits—whether it’s a new project, a crisis, or a market shift—lean into adaptive leadership to guide your team through the unknown.

Practitioner’s tip: Think of leadership like a balancing act. When things are predictable, rely on technical skills. When the path is unclear, embrace flexibility and adaptive thinking.  

Are You Ready to Adapt?

The ability to blend technical and adaptive leadership is what makes leaders versatile and effective. Next time you face a challenge, ask yourself: Is this a routine problem I can solve with my expertise, or do I need to guide my team through uncertainty? By mastering both styles, you’ll be primed to tackle whatever comes your way.

Martin, E. (2023). The Adaptive Leadership Facilitator’s Guide. Democratizing Leadership Press.