OBMs and VAs are not interchangeable roles, and should never be treated as the same type of professional. While both roles serve important purposes in your business, they have different skillsets and provide different kinds of support. When you’re deciding who to hire, take the time to think about *exactly* what you’re hoping to achieve with this new role.

To help you gain a deeper understanding of what kinds of work each role does, let’s look at OBMs (online business managers) and VAs (virtual assistants) a little more closely.

Virtual Assistant

A VA is a professional who provides remote administrative and support services to individuals or businesses. They handle a wide range of tasks depending on their individual focus/skillset, including managing emails and calendars, data entry, making travel arrangements, conducting research, handling customer inquiries, and much more! Virtual assistants offer flexible support, allowing clients to delegate specific tasks or even entire projects. They can also provide specialized assistance to help business owners increase productivity and focus on their core activities.

Online Business Manager

An OBM is a professional who takes on a more strategic and holistic role in managing and growing an online business. They oversee various aspects of the operation, such as project management, team coordination, financial management, and process optimization. Clients can delegate tasks like developing business strategies, implementing marketing campaigns, managing virtual teams, and improving operational efficiency. OBMs provide a high level of support by taking on a leadership role, ensuring the business runs smoothly, and helping it achieve its long-term goals while allowing the business owner to focus on their vision, long-term planning, and client work.

---

Now that we’re clear on who’s who in the world on online business support, let’s dive into the 5 signs that you need an OBM (and not a VA).

1. You’re Not Sure What Your Business Needs

An OBM becomes particularly invaluable when you’re uncertain about your business’s specific needs. OBMs serve as experienced guides who can not only execute tasks but also assist in identifying the direction your business should take. They offer a high level of support by bringing strategic planning and a fresh perspective into your operations.

OBMs can assess your current business situation, pinpoint areas that need improvement, and devise a clear plan to address these challenges. Whether it’s optimizing workflow processes, crafting a marketing strategy, or redefining your business objectives, they provide valuable insights and expertise. This helps you gain a clearer sense of your business’s purpose, streamline operations, and focus on what truly matters. Their ability to synthesize data, set priorities, and make informed decisions can be the compass that guides your business toward growth and success, even when you’re uncertain about the path forward.

2. You Want Help With High-Level Strategy

If you’re in need of support in developing a high-level business strategy, hiring an OBM is a strategic move in itself. OBMs are skilled in crafting comprehensive business strategies that lead to growth and long-term success. They can analyze your business’s current state, market trends, and competitive landscape to create a tailored roadmap for achieving your objectives.

OBMs excel in developing strategic plans that encompass all aspects of your business, from marketing and operations to financial management and team coordination. They work with you to define clear goals, establish key performance indicators, and implement a step-by-step plan for achieving those objectives. This support in strategic planning not only ensures that your business stays on track but also adapts to evolving circumstances, ultimately resulting in sustainable growth and profitability. OBMs serve as dedicated partners in shaping the future of your business, making them indispensable when you need to navigate the complexities of how to move forward with insight into successful strategies.

3. You Want Long-Term Collaboration

There’s zero doubt that you need an OBM when you’re seeking a long-term collaborative partner for your business. They offer more than just support; they become a strategic ally who can help you navigate the ins and outs of entrepreneurship. OBMs invest time in understanding your business holistically, allowing them to align their efforts with your vision and goals.

OBMs will become your right-hand man and are excellent sounding boards for ideas, strategies, and decisions. They provide a valuable perspective, offering insights and feedback that stem from their wealth of experience in managing various facets of multiple businesses. This collaborative partnership fosters an environment where you can brainstorm, explore new opportunities, and make well-informed choices. Over time, OBMs develop a deep familiarity with your business, making them a reliable, committed, and indispensable partner in your journey.

4. You Want To Take Management and Operations Off Your Plate

If your goal is to delegate all aspects of business management and operations, you’re primed to hire an OBM. They possess the expertise and experience necessary to fully take over the day-to-day management tasks and operational decisions, allowing you to shift your focus to long-term planning, client work, and the overarching vision for your business.

OBMs excel at streamlining and optimizing processes, managing teams, handling administrative tasks, and ensuring the smooth functioning of your operations. By entrusting them with these responsibilities, you can free up your time to concentrate on strategic growth initiatives, creative client work, and the development of your business’s core identity. The OBM’s role isn’t just about delegation; it’s about providing you with the peace of mind that your business is in capable hands, while you steer the ship toward your long-term objectives. This partnership enables you to achieve a harmonious balance between micro and macro-level business management, promoting overall success.

5. You’re Ready to Scale Your Business

When you’re ready to scale your business, having an OBM by your side is crucial. OBMs play a pivotal role in sustainable growth, as they bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in managing and optimizing business operations. With this type of strategic partnership, they help you navigate the complexities of expansion while ensuring that your business remains efficient and effective.

OBMs are experts in creating and implementing scalable processes, as well as bringing your team along and ensuring that they feel confident in their roles. They’re also able to assist in financial planning and resource allocation, which is essential for successful scaling. With their guidance, you can confidently expand your business knowing that you have a seasoned professional in your corner, helping you make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls. The OBM’s ability to adapt to changing circumstances and their commitment to your business’s long-term success make them an amazing asset when you’re ready to take your *ish* to the next level.

---

So there you have it! Do you know the right role for your business needs? If you’re ready to grow like crazy and work with someone who’s all about supporting your success, it’s time to bring on an OBM. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below and let’s chat!