The holidays are here, and if you’re not already thinking about how to show appreciation to your Ops Boss®, NOW is the time! These behind-the-scenes superheroes keep the wheels turning, making sure everything runs like a well-oiled machine. So, how do they want to be appreciated? We asked them! That’s right, we did a survey to find out exactly what your Ops Boss® is hoping for. If you want to be the one who really stands out this year with your Ops Boss®, keep reading. We’ve got all the insights from the survey results—and we’re about to drop some serious knowledge on what they actually want. (Scroll down to Moral of the Story for the Short & Sweet Answer!)
What Your Ops Boss® Actually Wants (Summary)
- Self-Care, Baby! (The Gift of Relaxation)
Let’s be real—your Ops Boss® often supports and takes care of everyone but themselves – team, family, community. That means they need a little TLC. In our survey, a really popular answer for what they want? Relaxation! Whether it’s a soothing massage, a luxurious spa day, or even just a super-soft blanket to curl up with, the goal here is relaxation. These gifts say, “I see you working hard, and I want you to chill for a minute.” Bonus points for something that screams “self-care” and less “I’m still working on my laptop while I get a mani.” - Professional Development (Because They’re Hungry for More)
Ops Bosses® are always looking for ways to level up. Our survey showed that many Ops Bosses® are eager to keep learning. They want courses, conferences, coaching, and opportunities to stretch their brain and make them even more of a badass in their role. (And of course, the most sought after opportunities were those offered especially for Ops Bosses® – our classes, Academy, Group Coaching, Elite 1:1 Coaching and annual Ops Boss® Leader Retreat). Bonus points if you give them the autonomy to choose what they want to focus on. Give them an education budget for 2025! - Cold, Hard Cash (Or Anything Close to It)
Money talks, and our survey results confirm it. If you want to show your Ops Boss® that you really appreciate them, give them something green. Whether it’s a bonus, gift card, or a cash equivalent, this one is simple. Ops Bosses® want to be compensated for their blood, sweat, and tears (and, honestly, their brilliance and RESULTS). A little financial appreciation goes a long way, so don’t skip this step. - Tools for the Job (Because For Us Geeks, Efficiency = Happiness)
Ops Bosses® are all about efficiency, and the right tools make them so much more efficient. The survey revealed that they want the gear and software that helps them do their job faster and better. A new laptop, software subscriptions, multiple monitors or even a standing desk could be a game-changer for them. Giving them the gift of time-saving tech or office upgrades shows you’re invested in their success (and also in getting things done faster). - Recognition (It’s Not Just for Everyone Else)
Ops Bosses® work hard, but sometimes they don’t get the spotlight they deserve. A shout-out in a meeting, a heartfelt thank-you, or a recognition award goes a long way. The survey confirmed that a little public recognition can make their day. They don’t need a parade, but they do want to feel valued. A little praise can go far, especially when it’s heartfelt and specific, so make sure to let them know how awesome they are. Trust me, they’ll remember it. When writing a personal note, write something heartfelt and specific. Think less “thanks for all you do” and more “you saved my bacon when you fixed that scheduling disaster last week.” The more personal, the better. (This is NOT the note to use Chat GPT to write!). - Respect and Time (The Two Things They Can’t Buy)
Ops Bosses® are masters of efficiency, but nothing frustrates them more than wasted time or feeling undervalued. Respect their boundaries, honor their time, and involve them in decisions. In our survey, many Ops Bosses® emphasized that respect—both for their contributions and their work-life balance—is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give. A simple “thank you” paired with not interrupting their focused work time, showing up for meetings on time and inviting their contributions to strategy can do wonders. Respect isn’t just an attitude; it’s a practice.
Moral of the Story
Money matters (almost everyone ranked financial rewards high) AND it’s not all that matters (many of the professional development opportunities, along with the time & respect responses also ranked high).
Survey Results: All the Things Your Ops Boss® Wants
Want to know exactly what’s on the Ops Boss® wish list? Here’s a comprehensive list of ideas from our survey. Get ready for the ultimate cheat sheet on how to make your Ops Boss® feel like the rockstar they are:
- Self-Care: Spa day, massage, mani/pedi, blanket, candle, wellness & fitness experiences
- Professional Development: Books, class tickets, MasterClass subscription, Elite 1:1 Coaching or Operations Group Coaching, Ops Boss® Academy, Ops Boss® Leader Retreat, Tony Robbins, John Maxwell or other personal/professional development conference, Education budget, introduce them to other high minded thinkers whose operations team would be good mastermind partners
- Financial Appreciation: Gift cards, a salary raise, add bonus incentives based on milestones hit, add profit incentives based on profit goals, provide the opportunity to learn about & financially participate in investing with the team (flips, holds, air bnbs), provide the opportunity to participate in building other businesses with you
- Recognition: Public shout-outs, recognition awards, handwritten notes, social media posts, stage & podcast invitations
- Tools for the Job: Software, tech gadgets, standing desks, office upgrades, an extra monitor, noise canceling headphones, a budget for new tech subscriptions like Canva Pro, a ReMarkable tablet
- Flexible Work Options: Remote work days, flexible hours, more time off
- Gifts: Coffee maker, planner upgrades, home office essentials, ornament, mug, team swag, detail their car, have their house cleaned, give presents to thank their family (ex: coloring books for kids, cocktail kit for spouse), a Unicorn themed gift basket
- Team Appreciation: Group celebrations, team outings, holiday parties, axe throwing, mini golf, cooking classes
- Memorable Experiences: Taylor Swift concert tickets, winery tour, cruise or trip to NYC
- Quality Time with YOU – Coffee outing, lunch, or just an uninterrupted meeting, thoughtful feedback on work done and goals for the future, a day dedicated to visioning and brainstorming the future of the business AND Your Future
Bonus Tip: Choose two items from the list above, and make them count. Pick something meaningful (like a financial gift or professional development opportunity) along with a recognition-based gesture (like a shout-out or thank-you note). You’re sure to hit the mark!
Wrap It Up
The holidays are the perfect time to show your Ops Boss® some major love. Whether you give them time to recharge, invest in their growth, or throw in a little extra cash, it’s the thought that counts. Ops Bosses® are all about efficiency, growth, and a little recognition, so make sure you hit the mark with your gifts and appreciation.
And here’s the thing: When your Ops Boss® feels valued, they’ll go above and beyond for you all year long. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s make this holiday season one they’ll remember.