The Great Misconception: Why Admin ≠ Operations

In the world of business, there’s a common misunderstanding that often gets swept under the rug, but it’s time to bring it to light. It’s the idea that administration and operations are the same thing. Let me tell you, they are not.

I’ve been in both roles, and the difference is night and day. But what exactly is operations, you might ask? It’s a specialty that’s tough to define because it encompasses so much. Think of operations as the glue that holds all the intricate parts of a business together, ensuring that everything works in harmony.

The Role of Operations: Beyond the Desk Work

Operations is the silent force in the room while the strategy is being outlined and the big dreams are being discussed. While everyone else is talking about goals and visions, the operations specialist is already thinking several steps ahead:

🌿 What does the team need to make this happen?

🌿 Has anyone mapped the risks involved?

🌿 When and how will we communicate this to our customers?

🌿 What does this mean for the ongoing projects?

🌿 Does our current tech stack support this vision?

These are not just administrative tasks; they’re strategic questions that require a deep understanding of the business’s core operations. And let’s be clear—operations is a specialty.

The Invisible Hand of Operations: A Tale of Misunderstanding

It took me some time to see operations for what it truly is, and I’ll admit, a bit of imposter syndrome and internalized misogyny didn’t help. Traditionally female roles, like admin, often get lumped together with operations, which only serves to blur the lines further. But the truth became clear when I compared how I and my operations colleagues show up versus how administrators do.

Operators vs. Administrators: The Real Difference

Let’s break it down. Administrators are essential; they keep the day-to-day functions running smoothly. They manage calendars, handle communications, and ensure that the office or virtual workspace operates without a hitch. Their work is invaluable, but it’s different from operations.

Operators, on the other hand, are the strategists behind the scenes. They’re not just following procedures; they’re designing them. They’re not just completing tasks; they’re optimizing them. They don’t just keep the business running; they make it thrive.

So, how do you recognize and enable an operator in your business? Here are a few tips:

🌿 Transparency with Resources: Let your operators see what subscriptions and tools you’re using. They might have insights on how to streamline processes or cut costs.

🌿 Involve Them in Product Development: Discuss upcoming products and services with them early on. This ensures they understand the support you’ll need and can plan accordingly.

🌿 Share Financial Goals: Be upfront about your financial targets and limitations. Operators can bring strategic thinking to their role, helping you achieve your goals more effectively.

In short, treat your operators like the specialists they are. 👏

The Cost of Misunderstanding: Why This Matters for Your Business

Underestimating the role of operations can be costly. If you treat an operations specialist like an administrator, you’re not just undermining their skills—you’re underutilizing a critical resource. Your business could miss out on valuable opportunities for growth, efficiency, and innovation.

For instance, consider the tech stack you’ve invested in. Without an operations specialist analyzing how each piece of technology fits into the broader strategy, you might end up with tools that don’t integrate well, leading to wasted resources and inefficiencies. Or think about risk management; an operations expert would proactively identify potential risks and devise strategies to mitigate them before they become problems.

When operations is done right, it becomes the backbone of your business, enabling growth and scalability without sacrificing quality or service. This is especially crucial for small and medium-sized businesses that can’t afford to waste time or money on inefficiencies.

The Specialist Approach: Empowering Operators for Success

So, how can you ensure that you’re leveraging your operations specialists to their full potential? It starts with recognizing their unique value and giving them the tools and authority they need to succeed.

🌿 Provide Autonomy: Allow operators the freedom to make decisions within their area of expertise. This not only empowers them but also fosters a culture of trust and innovation.

🌿 Encourage Continuous Learning: Operations is a field that’s always evolving. Encourage your team to stay updated on the latest trends, tools, and best practices, and support them in attending relevant workshops or courses.

🌿 Foster Collaboration: Operations touches every part of your business. Ensure that your operators are involved in cross-functional meetings and have a voice in strategic discussions.

Bridging the Gap: Admin and Operations Working Together

While admin and operations are distinct roles, they’re not mutually exclusive. In fact, they can and should complement each other. When administrators and operators work together, they can create a seamless workflow that enhances overall business efficiency.

For example, an administrator might manage the day-to-day scheduling and communication, while an operator ensures that these activities align with broader business goals. This collaboration can lead to a more cohesive and productive work environment, where both roles are valued for their unique contributions.

The Final Word: Recognize and Respect the Differences

At the end of the day, it’s all about recognizing and respecting the differences between administration and operations. Each role has its own set of responsibilities and requires a specific skill set. By understanding these distinctions, you can ensure that your business is not only running smoothly but also positioned for growth and success.

So, the next time you find yourself conflating admin with operations, take a step back and remember: Operations is not just about keeping the business running—it’s about making the business thrive.

P.S. No shade to administrators; everyone has their value, but it’s just different. Online Business Manager or Digital Business Manager—whatever you call it, operations is a specialty that deserves its own recognition.

By respecting and empowering your operators, you’re not just investing in a role; you’re investing in the future success of your business.