Online Business Manager? How nice…
I often receive blank stares and ‘how nice’ reactions when I tell people that I’m an Online Business Manager (OBM). I get it, it’s a relatively new role in the UK and Europe generally (although very established in the USA and Canada). Whereas some have heard of a Virtual Assistant (VA), the term Online Business Manager (OBM) is not so prevalent. But both roles are becoming increasingly critical to businesses fully online or with an online element. And it’s no surprise that, as business owners who often wear multiple hats, juggling tasks and responsibilities, we reach out to VAs and OBMs to streamline operations and enhance productivity. But what sets these roles apart? .
The Virtual Assistant: Your Trusty Sidekick
Imagine a virtual assistant as your right-hand person, ready to tackle a myriad of tasks to keep the gears of your business turning smoothly. VAs are like the Swiss Army knives of online support, adept at handling administrative duties, managing emails, scheduling appointments, and handling day-to-day operations. They are the unsung heroes behind the scenes, ensuring that your business sails smoothly.
However, their scope is primarily task-oriented. VAs excel at taking instructions and executing them with precision. Need a social media post scheduled? They’ve got it covered. Inbox overflowing? Consider it organised. VAs are the silent champions of efficiency, allowing you to focus on the bigger picture.
The Online Business Manager: The Orchestra Conductor
Now, let’s shift our gaze to the Online Business Manager – the maestro orchestrating the symphony of your business. An OBM steps into a more strategic role, overseeing not just tasks but the entire operational landscape. They act as the bridge between your business vision and its execution.
OBMs are strategic partners, deeply invested in understanding your business goals. They bring a holistic approach, managing teams, systems, and projects to ensure everything aligns seamlessly with your vision. From crafting and implementing business strategies to optimising workflows, OBMs are your co-captains navigating the ship to success.
The key distinction lies in the level of responsibility and strategic thinking. While a VA excels in handling specific tasks, an OBM takes a broader view, steering the ship to its destination and ensuring every component operates harmoniously.
Choosing Your Champion
As a business owner, the decision between a Virtual Assistant and an Online Business Manager depends on your needs and the stage of your business. If you’re looking to delegate tasks and create more breathing room, a VA would be your go-to. If you have taken on a VA (and potentially other team members) but you are still feeling overwhelmed (your tasks are sorted but people and project management is also time consuming) and you crave a strategic partner, someone to delve into the intricacies of your business, drive it forward and take on the general management of your business, an OBM is the missing piece to your puzzle.
Remember, the success of your business lies in understanding where you are and where you want to go. Both VAs and OBMs play invaluable roles in your journey, each bringing their unique strengths to the table.
So the next time you hear someone say ‘I’m an Online Business Manager’ you can respond with more interest and understanding about the role. And if you are a business owner, why not review if you are at the stage where this level of support is something that would benefit your business.
Until next time,
Ruth
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