Read This So You Don’t Have to Hire Me: Why AI Can’t Replace Great Coaching and Leadership

AI is everywhere. From automating administrative tasks to helping students with personalized learning, the applications of AI are nearly endless in education and EdTech. It’s a game-changer for improving efficiency and outcomes—but here's the catch: AI can’t replace great coaching and leadership.

As administrators and directors, you may feel the pressure to rely on technology to streamline operations and enhance productivity. While AI can certainly help, it’s the human connection, mentorship, and leadership that truly inspire, motivate, and drive growth in both schools and EdTech companies.

Here are three ideas for how you can coach your team, whether in a school district or an EdTech organization:

1. Lead with Empathy

Coaching is all about understanding the individual needs of your team. In education, this means getting to know your teachers and students—not just their data or performance metrics. In EdTech, it’s about understanding the goals and challenges of your customers, not just selling a product. Use empathy to listen and provide guidance, which builds trust and sets the foundation for continuous development. The human touch AI simply can’t replicate. When I first start in a school district, I sit down with every member of my team and ask them, "Where do you see yourself in 5 years and how can I get you there?" My employees have to understand that they are valued every day. Sometimes it is harder to say it but I want them to know that by my actions. Taking a few minutes of your day to tell someone that they are doing a great job means so much!

2. Provide Real-Time Feedback

AI can analyze data quickly and give insights, but it lacks the nuance and personal touch that comes from real-time, actionable feedback. Make it a point to check in regularly with your team, offering constructive criticism and praise. This helps them grow and feel supported. Feedback doesn’t need to be a formal process, it can happen in everyday interactions, but it must be authentic to be effective. All staff know when you are making a comment just to make a comment. Find small moments to be constructive in private but also find large moments to celebrate.

3. Create Opportunities for Growth

Leadership is about more than just overseeing work. It’s about fostering development. In education and EdTech, giving your team the chance to learn and take on new challenges will make them feel valued and inspire innovation. Encourage professional development, mentorship, and cross-collaboration. AI might streamline tasks, but it won’t inspire that next big idea or personal breakthrough.

AI is an incredible tool, but at the end of the day, it’s great leadership and coaching that empower your team to reach their full potential. Whether in a classroom or a company, your team needs you to guide them, challenge them, and provide the mentorship that goes beyond what AI can offer.

Let’s remember to balance technology with human connection to truly lead our teams to success.

Matthew Giovanniello Brett Roer Candice Sears Hayley Spira-Bauer Elizabeth Hickey Orme Fil Santiago Amanda Bickerstaff Ash Kaluarachchi Kelly King Berj Akian Jeff Patterson Gary Vaynerchuk James O'Boyle Dawn Dunkerley Ashley Shanley Chrissie Masi Joel Handler Michael Estrada Theodore Ragavas Jorge E. Diaz Dr. Nicholas Diaz Mike Kisow Matthew Winters Janet H. Tuohy Trevor G. Courtney White