What is the Difference between an Online Business Manager and a Virtual Assistant?
When it comes to managing the different aspects of your business, there comes a point when you start expanding and need to lean into growing your team or getting some help. Yay for you, this is an exciting milestone!
There are so many ways to expand your team from marketing agencies to hiring full-time staff or offloading accounting, social media, or other administrative tasks. One of the first hires often comes from hiring a Virtual Assistant (VA) or an Online Business Manager (OBM).
It is essential to know the distinct roles of an Online Business Manager (OBM) and a Virtual Assistant (VA). While both positions play crucial roles in helping you run your business smoothly, they have unique responsibilities and skill sets. Let's dive into the key differences between an OBM and a VA:
Online Business Manager (OBM):
High-Level Management: An OBM typically focuses on the overall management of your business. They work closely with you to develop strategies, implement processes, and oversee the daily operations.
Long-Term Planning: OBMs are involved in strategic planning, goal setting, and growth initiatives to take your business to the next level.
Project Management: OBMs excel in managing projects from start to finish, ensuring that everything is completed on time and within budget.
Client Interaction: They may interact directly with clients, handle queries, and ensure that projects are delivered as per the client's expectations.
Leadership Skills: OBMs often take on a leadership role within your business, making decisions, setting goals, and ensuring that the team is on track to meet objectives. This is variable and may depend on your comfort level with your OBM. A great OBM can partner with you, learn how you operate, and provide a trusting relationship to deliver to your preferences.
Virtual Assistant (VA):
Task-Oriented Support: VAs primarily provide task-based support such as administrative tasks, email management, scheduling, and other routine activities.
Implementation Support: They are instrumental in executing tasks delegated by you or the OBM, helping to keep your business operations running smoothly.
Focused on Efficiency: VA’s aim to increase efficiency by handling specific tasks, freeing up your time to focus on more critical aspects of your business.
Specialized Skills: VA’s often have specialized skills in areas like bookkeeping, or customer support.
Understanding the distinction between an Online Business Manager and a Virtual Assistant is crucial for leveraging their unique strengths to enhance your business operations effectively. Depending on your business needs, you can decide whether you require the high-level management expertise of an OBM or the task-oriented support of a VA to propel your business forward.
To learn more about our Online Business Management Services click here.
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