Last Updated on April 2, 2024 by Treana Wunsch
What is the online business manager role?
The role of an online business manager (OBM) is much like that of a traditional business manager. They handle daily operations and strategic planning for businesses. They manage various departments and teams to ensure they function.
Goal setting and monitoring progress are a big part of their responsibilities. By paying attention to details and looking at the big picture, an OBM serves as the bridge between owners and teams.
Whether those teams include employees, suppliers or professional services. They build relationships and navigate challenges with experience and innovation. They’re not only a leader but a visionary who guides the business toward success.
The difference between a traditional business manager and an OBM is an OBM works remotely. Also, they are independent business owners, not employees. This means they have their own work space, insurance and benefits.
They also take care of their professional development and taxes. That means, as a business owner, you have fewer responsibilities. Also, if the partnership doesn’t work out, you end it. If an employee doesn’t work out, there are many hoops to jump through.
In other words, taxes, workstations, benefits and insurance would be the responsibility of the OBM. They are a subcontractor. This is something to take into consideration when factoring in the cost.
This makes an OBM a great fit for a company that operates the business out of a home office. Choosing the required hours is also great for small businesses that don’t need a full-time manager. Not to mention, your business can continue to operate out of your home for much longer.
An online business manager leverages communication, delegation, and project management technology. They are adept at system and workflow development that bring the pieces together.
A traditional business manager relies on in-person meetings, paper-based systems, and analog infrastructure.
Both roles ensure smooth operations but thrive under differing circumstances. Understanding these distinctions is vital for businesses looking to optimize their management strategies.
Tuesday Takeaways Newsletter
You may have heard the term Online Business Manager. Many of you may not have. But, understanding the Online Business Manager role in today’s fast-paced, digital-based business world is crucial.
Small business owners often wear many hats. They’re juggling marketing, operations and finance while trying to reach their goals. In this fast-paced digital age, every click counts and competition is fierce. It’s easy for small business owners to feel lost in the sea of priorities.
Enter the unsung hero of modern entrepreneurship – the Online Business Manager (OBM). This behind-the-scenes powerhouse is like a virtual sherpa guiding small business owners through the treacherous terrain of operations.
An OBM helps them reach their goals amidst the chaos of cyberspace. If you feel like a ship lost at sea in your business, an OBM could be the key to unlocking your potential for growth and success.
What do OBMs excel at?
Online Business Managers (OBMs) narrow the gap between business owners and their teams. They also take the pressure off so business owners can tap into their creativity. If you feel stuck in reactive mode, it’s time for help.
They streamline operations, increase efficiency, and drive business growth through planning and delegation. OBMs understand the big picture of a company’s goals. They translate them into actionable plans for execution.
One key strength of OBMs is their exceptional communication skills. They communicate with all involved, ensuring everyone works towards a common goal.
Additionally, OBMs excel at project management. They manage many tasks and timelines to complete projects on time and within budget. They delegate tasks and divide resources. This makes them assets to organizations looking to scale or optimize their operations.
They also provide a fresh eye for business owners who are in the weeds. This outside perspective is valuable when you wear all the hats in your business.
For example, OBMs manage e-commerce, digital marketing strategies, team coordination, and project management. They are the linchpin between the goals of business and the activities needed to achieve them.
As technology transforms business operations, OBMs adapt and optimize processes to succeed. They leverage digital tools, analyze data and guide operations toward opportunities within cyberspace.
An OBM is a strategic leader who navigates digital complexities. They keep your business relevant while you develop your products and services.
OBMs provide a fresh eye for business owners who are in the weeds. This outside perspective is valuable when you wear all the hats in your business.
What is the difference between a VA and OBM?
Virtual Assistants (VAs) and Online Business Managers (OBMs) each support businesses. Yet, there are key differences between the two positions.
VAs are task-oriented. Completing tasks like email management, data entry, social media posting, and administrative support.
OBMs are strategic. They develop the systems and manage the operations of a business. Often, the OBM manages VAs. They delegate the work to the VAs.
VAs execute tasks based on instructions provided by the business owner or OBM. OBMs develop and manage the systems and workflows.
Understanding these roles helps business owners decide which is right for them. Often, both are beneficial in reaching the company goals.
VA
OBM
responding to emails
data entry
social media posts
administrative support
standard operating procedures
delegate tasks
develop systems
manage teams
Do I need an online business manager?
If the operations of your business overwhelm you, it’s time to hire an online business manager. These professionals streamline processes, manage projects, and ensure your business runs smoothly. Their expertise in marketing, operations, and team management, frees up your time.
An online business manager provides insights and strategies to level up your business. Increase productivity and growth by delegating responsibilities to a skilled manager. Having someone dedicated to overseeing the business operations allows you peace of mind.
If you’re asking if you need help for your business, you’ve needed it for a while.
If you’re still not sure, ask yourself these questions:
Do I still enjoy working in my business?
Do I feel in control of my business operations?
Am I making very few mistakes?
Are my financial commitments being met?
Is the business growing?
Am I able to take at least 4 weeks of vacation per year?
Am I on track to reach my goals?
Am I working less than 40 hours per week?
Am I reviewing the financials monthly?
Am I happy with my team (suppliers, employees, professional services)?
Do I spend as much time as I want with family and friends?
Am I able to pursue creative hobbies?
Am I sleeping enough?
If you answered ‘no’ to any of these, it’s time to get help. The ‘hustle’ isn’t sustainable. One in three small business owners has experienced burnout and over 50% suffer from anxiety or depression. When burnt out, you can’t make correct decisions or develop your product or service. It’s also difficult to serve your customers with excellence. Your body and mind are in survival mode.
One in three small business owners has experienced burnout and over 50% suffer from anxiety or depression.
How can an OBM help your business?
An Online Business Manager (OBM) is a game-changer for your business. With their expertise in project management, team coordination, and developing workflows. An OBM brings structure to your business by assessing the business first. Then by developing operating procedures and workflows. This allows you to work on high-impact activities that drive revenue and growth.
One key benefit of hiring an OBM is their ability to bridge the gap between vision and execution. Furthermore, their skill in tracking performance allows for informed decision-making. This approach enhances productivity and positions your business for sustainable success.
Should I hire an OBM?
You might wonder if hiring an Online Business Manager (OBM) is for your business. It may seem like an added expense, but having an OBM can save you time and money in the long run. A good OBM is an investment in your business.
An OBM takes care of the daily operations so you can focus on your vision for the business. They put in place systems and strategies that drive growth and maximize profits. Hiring an OBM can be a game-changer for small businesses looking to level up their operations.
Does an online business manager need to be certified?
An online business manager doesn’t need certification. Often, they have years of office management experience with many businesses in various industries.
Their expertise often speaks for itself. Yet, some OBMs pursue certification or training to enhance their skills. Look at experience, track record, and qualifications when deciding whether they fit your business needs.
How much does an OBM cost?
The cost of hiring an Online Business Manager (OBM) can vary depending on many factors. OBMs charge either a monthly retainer fee or an hourly rate. On average, the cost can range from $1,000 to $5,000 per month. Yet, experienced OBMs may charge more due to their expertise and track record.
Some OBMs offer packages based on the specific needs and size of the business they are working with. This personalized approach ensures the services align with the business goals and objectives.
Businesses looking to invest in an OBM should consider the cost and the return on investment. Consider what your idea of success is and how you will measure it. What would getting your business on track to reach your goals mean to you?
What would reaching your business goals mean to you?
Every OBM has their way of working but this is my process: Remove, automate, delegate.
1. Assess the current business
Assessing the current workflow is crucial for any business aiming to boost efficiency. By conducting an assessment of processes, I can identify bottlenecks and redundancies. This assessment allows for informed decision-making on what isn’t working and what is.
One aspect of the assessment is understanding how owners and teams interact. I optimize the operating procedures by looking at communication, timelines and resources. Additionally, focusing on employee feedback can provide insights into pain points or inefficiencies.
In today’s business landscape, assessing the workflow regularly is essential to staying competitive. Data-based decisions allow businesses to address challenges and seize growth opportunities. By evaluating their processes and seeking solutions, organizations can achieve operational excellence.
2. Remove unnecessary tools and systems
Removing unnecessary tools and systems creates a clean slate to build from. By streamlining processes and eliminating redundancies, businesses can become more efficient and cost-effective. Assessing the tools and systems ensures they align with the company’s objectives.
Unnecessary tools waste valuable resources but can also create confusion among team members. Simplifying technology leads to increased productivity, clearer communication channels, and improved decision-making processes.
Online business managers should conduct regular audits, to identify areas to simplify. Focusing on essential tools empowers their teams to work toward the same goals.
Unnecessary tools waste valuable resources but can also create confusion among team members.
3. Automation of processes
Automating processes streamlines operations, boosts efficiency, and reduces human error. Implementing automation tools saves time and resources spent on manual tasks. Allowing owners to focus on more strategic and creative aspects of the business.
Furthermore, automation ensures consistency by adhering to predefined rules and workflows. It also enables real-time monitoring and data analysis, providing valuable insights for decision-making. In today’s fast-paced world, embracing automation offers a competitive advantage.
4. Delegate tasks
Delegating tasks is a crucial aspect of effective business management. If you’re not delegating, you can’t grow. Delegating to people who can get the job done can fast-track success. An online business manager identifies tasks to delegate based on team members’ strengths and expertise.
Delegation allows the OBM and owner to focus on strategy, rather than day-to-day operations. This enhances productivity and promotes employee development and job satisfaction. This leads to a more cohesive and efficient workforce. Mastering the art of delegation is key to achieving long-term success.
5. Ongoing support
Ongoing support is the backbone of any successful online business management strategy. A good OBM understands the importance of providing continuous guidance. This support builds trust and fosters long-term relationships. Clients feel supported after the initial project is complete.
OBMs can predict needs, troubleshoot issues and adjust strategies for optimal performance. This proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to their success. With ongoing support, online business managers position themselves as valuable partners. They invest in helping clients achieve their goals faster.
That's all for now...
An Online Business Manager is vital for small businesses to reach their goals. An OBM can impact the success of a business by delegating and developing procedures. Small business owners can focus on growth without getting bogged down by day-to-day operations.
The services of an OBM can lead to an efficient, profitable and successful business. Hiring one just might be the key to reaching your goals.
I hope this post helped you learn what the online business manager role is and how it can help you and your small business.
If you liked this post or if I missed anything, comment below.
