90: 1 Simple Way to Make Your Value Visible in Operations

Find the full transcript at: yourfuturerealized.com/90.

Have you heard this old joke?: “What do you call someone who hangs out with musicians? A drummer.” 

It always gets a chuckle, but anyone who’s ever been in a band knows the truth: The drummer is the backbone. Without them, the whole thing falls apart. They keep everyone in sync, set the pace, and hold it all together, even though they’re not out front with the mic. 

Just stop and think about that. It’s true, isn’t it? That’s operations in a nutshell. You might not be chasing the spotlight, but it’s important to be recognized where it matters: in your authority, your influence, and your next opportunity.

In this episode, you’ll learn practical ways to make sure people notice the value you bring to the band, without feeling like you’re showing off or demanding a solo. 

Transcript

Have you heard this old joke?: “What do you call someone who hangs out with musicians? A drummer.”

It always gets a chuckle, but anyone who’s ever been in a band knows the truth: The drummer is the backbone. Without them, the whole thing falls apart. They keep everyone in sync, set the pace, and hold it all together, even though they’re not out front with the mic.

Just stop and think about that. It’s true, isn’t it?

That’s operations in a nutshell. You might not be chasing the spotlight, but it’s important to be recognized where it matters: in your authority, your influence, and your next opportunity.

In this episode, you’ll learn practical ways to make sure people notice the value you bring to the band, without feeling like you’re showing off or demanding a solo. Find the full transcript at: yourfuturerealized.com/90.

Hey Ops Execs,

Operations Executives: The Unsung Backbone

Let’s get into it. Operations is the engine room of any organization. When things run smoothly, people forget there’s someone actually steering the ship. And when the world is changing fast, with new tech, new priorities, new… acronyms seemingly every quarter, your steady hand can get drowned out in the noise.

Ever feel like your best work is invisible? You’re not alone in that, but it’s not a badge you have to wear forever. The better you are, the less people notice, until something breaks. That’s a weird reward, isn’t it? You’re not asking for a parade, but a nod of respect (and maybe a bump in title or pay) goes a long way.

What I know about people who take the helm of operations is that generally, you’re the quiet problem-solvers. You spot issues before they explode. You make calls with half the info and double the pressure. That’s a rare skill. But it’s also why your value can get overlooked, especially when the spotlight keeps moving.

I get it, I’ve always preferred to fly under the radar myself. Back when I led operations, and even now as an executive coach, I’m not the one posting every win or chasing the spotlight. For me, I just want to keep the music going and serve my people, not put on a show. That approach has always felt right to me, and I know it resonates with a lot of operations leaders, too.

Make Your Decision Signature Stand Out

So, what can you do? Here’s one possible route forward: Start by noticing your “decision signature.” That’s just the unique way you tackle problems and make things better. It’s like your personal riff: No one else plays it quite like you.

Here’s how to put it into practice:

First, take a moment to think about a decision you made recently that helped your team, especially when things got weird. Maybe it involved new technology, a surprise curveball, or a process that went sideways. What was your approach? What did you weigh, and why did you choose the path you did?

Then, in an upcoming meeting, try narrating your thought process out loud, either about that recent decision if it comes up, or about a new one you’re making in real time. Not a TED Talk. Just a quick, “Here’s what I considered, here’s why I went this way.” For example:

• “I chose this because it balanced speed with accuracy, and I knew everyone was stretched.”
• “I went with this option since it gave us a backup plan if the new software glitched. Just wanted to make sure we weren’t caught off guard.”

It’s subtle but sharing your thinking like this lets people see what you value, whether it’s protecting the team’s time, managing risk, or just keeping things running smoothly under pressure. It’s not showing off. It’s opening the door a crack so others can see the real work behind the scenes.

By the way, this is also a great way to help your team understand what you’re looking for in the decisions they make.

So, here’s your question for the week: What’s one way you can make your value more visible without bragging? Especially as your organization adapts to new technology or new challenges, how can you let people see the difference you make?

Your decision signature is yours. Let it show. Trust yourself, try this one small thing this week, and see what happens. You might be surprised who notices.

And hey, if this episode struck a chord, check out episode 26, “How to Elevate Your Ops Team’s Profile & Recognition,” at yourfuturerealized.com/26.

You can’t stop the chaos, but you can change the game.