The Online Business Manager: Everything You Need to Know
Running a small business can often feel like a juggling act, can’t it?
You're constantly balancing a myriad of tasks, from managing your team to strategizing for growth. It's a lot to handle and sometimes can feel overwhelming.
Enter the Online Business Manager (OBM).
An OBM is a professional who can take some of those balls you're juggling and keep them in the air for you. They can manage and improve business operations, oversee projects, and even help with strategic planning.
But what exactly is an Online Business Manager?
How do they differ from a Virtual Assistant?
When should you consider hiring one?
And how much does an Online Business Manager charge?
These are all valid questions. And as a small business owner, you deserve clear, concise answers.
That's why we've put together this complete guide for business owners like you.
We'll unveil the role of an Online Business Manager, from A to Z.
We'll explore what an OBM does, how they can benefit your business, and how to go about hiring one.
So, whether you're just starting to consider an OBM or you're ready to hire, this guide is for you.
Let's dive in!
What is an Online Business Manager?
Imagine having a dedicated professional managing every aspect of your online business, seamlessly handling day-to-day operations, overseeing hiring processes, and expertly managing projects and teams. That is the OBM.
Specializing in working with ambitious entrepreneurs on the path to six or seven-figure success, OBMs bridge the gap between your vision and reality.
Think of OBMs as the Operations Manager or COO of your dreams, but with a modern twist. They’re virtually based, agile, and ready to tackle any challenge that comes our way.
They're like a supercharged version of a Virtual Assistant.
But while a Virtual Assistant typically handles administrative tasks, an OBM takes on a more strategic role. They oversee projects, manage your team, and ensure your business operations run smoothly.
But that's not all.
An OBM also plays a crucial role in planning and executing your business strategy. They work closely with you, the business owner, to understand your vision and goals.
You may have heard other people refer to OBMs in other terms like Virtual Manager or Online Manager. There could be differences and similarities in their roles but, in essence, an OBM is your right-hand person, your second in command. Their role is much more diverse and they can take on the tasks that you don't have time for, or simply don't want to do.
This allows you to focus on what you do best: growing your business.
So, if you're feeling overwhelmed by the day-to-day management of your business, an OBM might be just what you need.
The Evolution of the Online Business Manager Role
The role of an Online Business Manager has evolved significantly over the years.
Initially, OBMs were primarily hired by online businesses. These businesses needed someone to manage their virtual teams and oversee their online operations.
However, as more and more businesses started operating online, the demand for OBMs grew.
Today, OBMs are hired by businesses of all types and sizes even by brick and mortar businesses. From small startups to large corporations, any business that operates online can benefit from an OBM.
In fact, the role of an OBM has become so important that many businesses now consider it a key part of their growth strategy.
Key Responsibilities of an Online Business Manager
So, what exactly does an Online Business Manager do?
Well, the role of an OBM can vary greatly depending on the business. However, there are some key responsibilities that most OBMs will have.
First and foremost, an OBM is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a business. This includes everything from overseeing projects, implementing systems, to managing team members.
An OBM is also often responsible for strategic planning. They work closely with the business owner to set goals and develop strategies to achieve them. The business owner figures out the "What" and the OBM figures out the "How."
Here are some of the key responsibilities of an OBM:
Project management: OBMs oversee all projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.
Operations management: OBMs ensure that all business operations run smoothly and efficiently.
Team management: OBMs manage all team members, ensuring they are performing their roles effectively.
Strategic planning: OBMs work with the business owner to set goals and develop strategies to achieve them.
In addition to these key responsibilities, an OBM may also be responsible for a variety of other tasks. These can include everything from managing the business's finances to overseeing its marketing efforts.
Here are some additional tasks that an OBM might be responsible for:
Financial management: OBMs may be responsible for managing the business's finances, including budgeting and financial planning.
Marketing management: OBMs may oversee the business's marketing efforts, including managing its online presence and coordinating marketing campaigns.
Customer service management: OBMs may manage customer service efforts, ensuring happy customers.
Product development: OBMs may be involved in the development of new products or services, overseeing the entire process from conception to launch.
As you can see, the role of an OBM is incredibly varied. This is what makes it such a vital role for any business that operates online.
Online Business Manager vs. Virtual Assistant: Understanding the Difference
You might ask, "Isn't an Online Business Manager just a fancy term for a Virtual Assistant?"
Well, not quite. While both roles provide support to businesses, there are some key differences between them.
A Virtual Assistant (VA) typically handles administrative tasks. These can include things like managing emails, scheduling appointments, and handling customer inquiries.
On the other hand, an Online Business Manager (OBM) takes on a more strategic role. They are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the business and work closely with the business owner.
Think of it this way: a VA is like an administrative assistant, while an OBM is more like a manager or executive like a COO in the traditional business world.
A VA is there to help with the tasks that keep the business running on a day-to-day basis. An OBM, however, is there to help the business grow and succeed.
VAs are responsible for their individual tasks and making sure they're completed.
OBMs are responsible for achieving smooth business operations.
VAs get direction from their manager or the business owner.
OBMs understand the vision and create strategic plans and rally the team to execute them.
So, while both roles are important, they serve different purposes. If you're looking to delegate tasks and free up some of your time, a VA might be what you need. But if you're looking for someone to help drive your business forward, an OBM could be the better choice.
When to Consider Hiring an Online Business Manager
So, when is the right time to bring an Online Business Manager into your business?
Well, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. It really depends on your specific needs and the stage your business is in.
However, there are some common signs that you might be ready to hire an OBM. For instance, if you're feeling overwhelmed by the day-to-day operations of your business, an OBM could help. They can take over some of your responsibilities, freeing up your time to focus on what you do best.
Another sign is if you're looking to scale your business. An OBM can help you plan and execute growth strategies, making the scaling process smoother and more efficient.
Finally, if you're finding it hard to keep up with the latest trends and technologies in your industry, an OBM could be a valuable asset. They can help you stay ahead of the curve, ensuring your business remains competitive.
The Benefits of Having an Online Business Manager on Your Team
Hiring an Online Business Manager can bring a wealth of benefits to your business. Let's discuss some of the key advantages.
Firstly, an OBM can significantly improve efficiency within your business. They can streamline processes, implement new systems, and ensure everything runs smoothly. This can save you a lot of time and resources in the long run.
Secondly, an OBM can free up your time. As a business owner, you're likely juggling a multitude of tasks. By delegating some of these tasks to an OBM, you can focus on the areas of your business that need your attention the most.
Thirdly, an OBM can bring a fresh perspective to your business. They can identify areas for improvement that you may have overlooked, and suggest innovative solutions to enhance your operations.
Moreover, an OBM can help you scale your business. They can manage projects, coordinate teams, and oversee the implementation of growth strategies. This can help you take your business to the next level.
Finally, an OBM can provide valuable support and guidance. They can act as a sounding board for your ideas, provide feedback, and help you navigate the challenges of running a business.
To sum up, here are the key benefits of having an OBM on your team:
Improved efficiency
More time to focus on core business tasks
Fresh perspective and innovative solutions
Support in scaling your business
Valuable support and guidance
Remember, the benefits you reap from hiring an OBM will largely depend on your specific needs and circumstances. So, it's important to carefully consider what you want to achieve before bringing an OBM into your team.
How Much Does an Online Business Manager Charge?
One of the key questions you might have is, "How much does an Online Business Manager charge?" The answer to this question can vary widely, depending on several factors.
Firstly, the cost of hiring an OBM can depend on their level of experience and expertise. An OBM with a proven track record of success and a wealth of experience may charge more than someone who is just starting out in the role.
Secondly, the scope of the work can also influence the cost. If you're hiring an OBM to manage a large, complex project, they may charge more than if they were overseeing a smaller, simpler task.
Thirdly, the location of the OBM can also impact the cost. OBMs based in areas with a high cost of living may charge more than those based in areas where living costs are lower.
Lastly, the pricing model the OBM uses can also affect the cost. Some OBMs charge a flat monthly retainer, while others charge an hourly rate. Some may also offer package deals for specific services.
Here's a rough breakdown of what you might expect to pay:
Entry-level OBM: $35-50 per hour
Mid-level OBM: $50-75 per hour
Senior-level OBM: $75-100+ per hour
Remember, these are just estimates. The actual cost can vary based on the factors mentioned above. It's also important to consider the value an OBM can bring to your business. While hiring an OBM is an investment, the benefits they can provide in terms of improved efficiency, time savings, and business growth can make it a worthwhile one.
How Do I Find an Online Business Manager?
Finding the right Online Business Manager for your business is a crucial step. You want someone who understands your business, shares your vision, and can help you achieve your goals.
Start by identifying what you need from an OBM. What tasks are they going to take on? What skills do they need to have? What kind of experience should they have?
Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. Here are some ways to do that:
Online job boards like Upwork
Professional networking sites like Linkedin
Recommendations from other business owners
OBM agencies or directories
Crafting the Perfect Job Description
A well-crafted job description can help attract the right candidates. It should clearly outline the responsibilities of the role, the skills and experience required, and the expectations for the position.
Here are some key elements to include in your OBM job description:
Overview of your business and its mission
Detailed list of tasks and responsibilities
Required skills and qualifications
Desired personality traits and work style
Information about the work schedule and compensation
Grab a copy of our OBM Job Description here.
The Interview Process: What to Ask and What to Look For
The interview process is your chance to get to know potential OBMs and see if they're a good fit for your business. Here are some questions you might want to ask:
Can you tell me about your experience as an OBM?
How do you handle project management and team coordination?
Can you give me an example of a problem you solved for a client?
How do you handle feedback and criticism?
What tools and software are you familiar with?
Look for candidates who are proactive, organized, and good communicators. They should also be able to demonstrate problem-solving skills and a strong understanding of online business management.
Onboarding Your Online Business Manager
Once you've found the right OBM, it's time to onboard them into your business. This involves introducing them to your team, getting them up to speed on your business operations, and setting clear expectations for their role.
Remember, it can take time for a new OBM to fully understand your business and start making significant contributions. Be patient, provide support and guidance as needed, and keep the lines of communication open. With the right approach, your new OBM can become a valuable asset to your business.
Setting Expectations and Measuring Success
Setting clear expectations is key to a successful working relationship with your Online Business Manager. This involves defining their role, outlining their responsibilities, and setting performance goals.
Start by discussing your business goals and how the OBM can contribute to achieving them. This could involve improving operational efficiency, increasing sales, or expanding into new markets.
Next, establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure the OBMs performance. These could include:
Project completion rates
Sales targets
Customer satisfaction scores
Operational efficiency metrics
Regularly review these KPIs with your OBM to assess their performance and make adjustments as needed. This not only helps keep your OBM accountable, but also provides valuable feedback that can help them improve.
Remember, the goal of hiring an OBM is to help your business grow and succeed. By setting clear expectations and measuring success, you can ensure that your OBM is contributing to this goal and adding value to your business.
Overcoming Challenges and Building a Strong Working Relationship
Working with an Online Business Manager can come with its own set of challenges. These can range from communication issues to differences in work styles or expectations. However, with the right approach, these challenges can be overcome.
The first step is open and honest communication. If there's an issue, don't let it fester. Address it head-on with your OBM. They're there to support you and your business, so they'll likely be eager to find a solution.
Next, remember that building a strong working relationship takes time. It's normal for there to be a period of adjustment as you both learn to work together. Be patient and give your OBM the space to learn and grow into their role.
Also, consider regular check-ins or meetings. This can help keep everyone on the same page and ensure that any issues are addressed promptly. It also provides an opportunity to give and receive feedback, which can be invaluable for continuous improvement.
Finally, remember that a strong working relationship is built on trust. Trust your OBM to do their job and support them in their role. With time, patience, and open communication, you can build a strong and productive working relationship with your Online Business Manager.
The Future of Online Business Management
The role of an Online Business Manager is evolving, just like the business landscape itself. As more businesses move online and remote work becomes the norm, the demand for OBMs is likely to increase.
In the future, we can expect OBMs to take on even more strategic roles. They'll be instrumental in navigating the complexities of the digital world, from managing remote teams to implementing advanced tech solutions. Their role will extend beyond operations and into areas like data analysis, digital marketing, and even AI integration.
Moreover, as businesses strive for agility and resilience in a rapidly changing environment, OBMs will be at the forefront. They'll be key players in driving business transformation, fostering innovation, and ensuring businesses stay competitive in the digital age.
In short, the future of online business management is bright. And for business owners, that means more opportunities to leverage the skills and expertise of an OBM to drive business growth and success.
Conclusion: Integrating an Online Business Manager into Your Growth Strategy
In conclusion, an Online Business Manager can be a game-changer for your business. They can take on the operational tasks that consume your time, allowing you to focus on strategic growth. They can streamline your processes, manage your team, and drive your projects to completion.
But remember, the key to a successful OBM relationship is clear communication and shared vision. Make sure you're on the same page about your business goals and expectations. And don't forget to give them the trust and autonomy they need to do their job effectively. So, if you're ready to take your business to the next level, consider integrating an OBM into your growth strategy. It could be the best business decision you ever make.
