Are you feeling stuck in your operations role? This episode reveals that the key to thriving as an operations professional isn't just about certifications or mastering tech stacks; it's about having a supportive community that speaks your language. Brooke Elder shares her journey and emphasizes the importance of connecting with like-minded individuals who understand the unique challenges faced by operators. Through community engagement, you can gain insights, brainstorm solutions, and elevate your problem-solving skills, ultimately leading to higher pay and a more fulfilling career. Join Brooke as she explores how surrounding yourself with the right people can transform your business and professional life.

The value of community in operations is a recurring theme in Brooke Elder's insightful discussion. She highlights a significant finding from her experience: successful operations professionals often attribute their achievements to being part of a community that truly understands their challenges and speaks their language. Brooke emphasizes that it’s not about acquiring more certifications or technical skills but rather about having a solid network to turn to for support and advice. She paints a relatable picture of her own early career struggles, illustrating the frustrations of working in isolation and the missed opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Brooke explains that many professionals fall into an isolation trap, particularly in roles that require systemic thinking. This isolation can delay problem resolution and hinder overall productivity, which, in turn, affects earning potential. By fostering a community like the OPS Network, Brooke aims to create an environment where operations professionals can easily share insights, brainstorm solutions, and support one another. She introduces the concept of a 'mind hive,' where the collective knowledge of the community accelerates progress and provides diverse perspectives on problem-solving.

As the conversation progresses, Brooke outlines the tangible benefits of being part of a community, including the opportunity to learn from others' experiences and insights. She encourages listeners to reflect on their own networks and consider whether they are engaging with peers who challenge and inspire them. The episode wraps up with a strong call to action, inviting professionals to join the OPS Network, where they can not only enhance their skills but also contribute to a collective elevation of the operations field. The overarching message is clear: community is essential for growth, and together, professionals can rise to new heights.

Takeaways:

• Having a community of like-minded professionals can significantly enhance problem-solving capabilities and business growth.
• Networking with others who understand your challenges can save time and lead to faster solutions.
• Solving higher-level problems is essential for increasing your income and business potential.
• Engaging with a supportive community helps you gain new perspectives and innovative ideas.
• The value of being in a network is that you can elevate each other’s skills and knowledge.
• Communities like the OPS Network create an environment where everyone can thrive and succeed together.

Links referenced in this episode:

• theoptimizednetwork.com
• theptimizednetwork.com/2025

Mentioned in this episode:

Become a Member of the Ops Yacht Club

I've created a free community where we are posting job opportunities for people just like you!