As Super Bowl LIX approaches, featuring a showdown between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers, business leaders can draw valuable insights from the leadership styles of Andy Reid (Chiefs) and Kyle Shanahan (49ers).
Both coaches have cultivated a winning culture built on connection, trust, and high performance.
Here are three habits they use that can transform company culture.
1. Empower Your Team Through Trust and Delegation
Andy Reid is a master of delegation. He trusts his staff and players to take ownership, whether it’s letting offensive coordinators call plays or allowing quarterback Patrick Mahomes to innovate on the field. By empowering his team, Reid fosters confidence, accountability, and creativity—keys to long-term success.
Give your team autonomy to solve problems and execute strategies. Micromanagement stifles innovation, while trust breeds leadership. Set clear expectations and let people own their roles.
2. Adaptability and Innovation
Kyle Shanahan is known for his adaptability and forward-thinking offensive schemes. Whether it’s adjusting mid-game or designing game plans around his players’ strengths, Shanahan ensures his team is always ahead of the curve.
Markets shift, industries evolve, and companies that don’t adapt get left behind. Encourage a culture where innovation thrives. Analyze trends, take smart risks, and pivot when necessary. A business that remains flexible will outlast the competition.
3. Culture of Accountability and Consistency
Both Reid and Shanahan maintain high standards and clear accountability within their organizations. Players know what’s expected of them, and they rise to meet the challenge. This culture of consistency breeds trust and performance.
Set clear, unwavering standards for your team. If excellence is the expectation, make sure everyone is aligned. Great cultures don’t happen by accident—they are built through consistent leadership and accountability.
Super Bowl-winning coaches don’t just lead teams—they create cultures of connection, empowerment, and accountability.
Business leaders can take these same principles and build organizations where people feel valued, motivated, and aligned toward a shared vision.
Which of these leadership habits do you prioritize in your business?