The Phil Jackson Playbook for IT Leaders: Empower, Adapt, and Win

One of my favorite coaches of all time, Phil Jackson, wasn’t just a coach. He was a leader in the truest sense. With 11 NBA championships, he mastered the art of bringing out the best in his teams, not just by running plays but by building a culture of trust, empowerment, and adaptability.

I see a lot of similarities between what he did on the court and what we do in the corporate world. IT leadership isn’t just about managing technology—it’s about managing people, fostering collaboration, and creating an environment where teams thrive. Here’s how we can apply Jackson’s leadership philosophy to IT and beyond.

1. Build a Strong Team Culture

Jackson didn’t just focus on star players, he built teams where every role mattered. That’s exactly what we need to do with our teams. A strong culture starts with trust, respect, and making sure every team member knows their contributions matter. When people feel valued, they’re more invested in the success of the whole organization.

2. Empower, Don’t Micromanage

One of Jackson’s greatest strengths was trusting his players to make decisions on the court. He gave them the freedom to adapt, problem-solve, and take ownership. The best leaders do the same. Instead of micromanaging every detail, we should focus on setting clear goals, providing the right tools, and giving our teams the confidence to make smart decisions. When people feel trusted, they take more initiative and perform at a higher level.

3. Communicate in a Way That Connects

Jackson knew how to connect with his players. He didn’t just talk basketball; he understood each player’s personality and tailored his leadership approach accordingly. Whether we’re speaking with executives, stakeholders, or our teams, the way we communicate matters. It’s not just about explaining the technical details, it’s about making sure everyone understands the impact and value of what we’re doing. Clear, meaningful communication builds alignment and trust.

4. Stay Flexible and Adapt

Jackson won championships with different teams and different playing styles. He adjusted his coaching methods to fit the strengths of his players. Technology moves fast, business priorities shift, and unexpected challenges pop up. The leaders who thrive are the ones who embrace change, stay adaptable, and guide their teams through uncertainty without clinging to rigid processes.

5. Lead with Emotional Intelligence

Jackson understood his players on a personal level. He knew when to push, when to step back, and how to bring out the best in each person. Emotional intelligence is just as important as technical expertise. When we take the time to understand what motivates our teams, recognize stress points, and create a supportive environment, we build teams that are more engaged, innovative, and resilient. The best leaders don’t just manage, they inspire.

Final Thoughts

Phil Jackson’s leadership was about creating a system where people thrived, trusted each other, and worked toward a common goal. Leaders who embrace these principles can do more than just manage projects, they can build high-performing teams that drive real transformation.

At the end of the day, great leadership is about more than just tactics. It’s about vision, trust, and the ability to elevate those around you.