The difference between a Virtual Assistant (VA) and an Online Business Manager (OBM) isn’t really talked about.
It’s kind of like the difference between a Queen Bee and a bee. To the naked eye, everything looks pretty similar. When in reality, they couldn’t be more different.
Here you’ll learn how each role differs, so that when it’s time to outsource or hire, you’ll know exactly who to go to.
FYI: Not many people offer VA and OBM services, so I’m a bit of a unicorn! I really love both roles, and tailor my level of support to each client’s needs.
Things to Think About When Outsourcing
Maybe you’re feeling nervous about trusting someone with your business (it is your baby, after all!). But your business is growing, the next logical step is to outsource – and you want to get it right the first time.
Here are two key things to ask yourself.
- Do I want to trust someone to completely take the reins in my business so I can focus on growing and scaling?
- Or am I happy to be the one who takes full control and coordinates the completion of each task by the deadline?
The answers to these questions will give you a rough idea of where to outsource to as you learn more about each role. You’ll notice they require completely different skill-sets and levels of support.
If you want to know what an OBM and a VA do, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s an outline of what each does, and their key differences.
What is an OBM?
The term OBM is a relatively new phrase, so don’t freak out if you haven’t heard of it before. With the ease of virtual working relationships and outsourcing, what used to be known as a Project Manager is now more commonly called an OBM or Integrator.
An OBM is…
The coordinator, manager and delegator
- Up-to-date on digital marketing strategies
- Going to treat your business with respect, as if it were their own
- Proactive at identifying ways they can help you grow your business
- Responsible for the success of the team
- Continuously investing in their own development – both personally and professionally
- Behind the scenes testing, resolving any issues and ensuring everyone is following company protocol
- Self-driven and motivated by your success
- Has your vision and goals at the forefront of all work
A Virtual Assistant is…
The doer, taskmaster and superstar supporter
- Assigned specific tasks to complete and doesn’t usually go beyond that point
- Only responsible for their own work, not the greater good of the business
- Usually skilled in basic administrative and sometimes creative tasks
- Lead by you or your OBM to complete each task
- Always requires your final approval on tasks completed
- Compensated by an hourly rate
Should You Outsource to an OBM or a VA?
If you’ve just started your business and you need to take some simple tasks off your plate (or ones you just don’t like doing or haven’t got a clue about), then you should look at working with a Virtual Assistant.
If you’re a successful business owner and you’re ready to scale and grow your business, without the stress and overwhelm, then you need the assistance of an Online Business Manager (AKA me!).
With my assistance, you’ll get your life back, while rapidly speeding up the growth of your business. Moving forward, I’ll be announcing my new and exciting packages for clients interested in an OBM. Stay tuned!
