As more and more businesses move online, the roles of online business managers (OBMs) and virtual assistants (VAs) have become increasingly important. However, while both OBMs and VAs provide support to business owners, there are important distinctions between the two roles. In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between an OBM and a VA and why it’s important for business owners to understand these distinctions.
What is an Online Business Manager?
An online business manager is a professional responsible for managing an online business’s day-to-day operations. OBMs typically work with business owners to develop and implement systems and processes that help streamline the business and ensure its success. They may also be responsible for overseeing a team of virtual assistants or other contractors.
Some of the typical tasks an OBM might handle include:
- Project management
- Team management
- Systems and process development
- Customer service management
- Financial management and bookkeeping
- Marketing and sales strategy development
- Website and technology management
OBMs are highly skilled professionals who deeply understand how online businesses work. They typically have a business management, operations, or project management background and have experience working with online businesses.
What is a Virtual Assistant?
A virtual assistant, on the other hand, is a professional who provides administrative support to businesses remotely. VAs can help business owners with a wide range of tasks, including:
- Email management
- Social media management
- Customer service
- Data entry and organization
- Bookkeeping and invoicing
- Scheduling and calendar management
- Research and data analysis
VAs are typically highly organized and detail-oriented professionals who are able to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously. They may have expertise in specific areas, such as social media management or bookkeeping, but generally, provide general administrative support to business owners.
Key Differences between OBMs and VAs
While both OBMs and VAs provide support to business owners, there are several key differences between the two roles:
- Scope of work: OBMs are typically responsible for managing the overall operations of an online business, while VAs focus on specific tasks or projects.
- Level of expertise: OBMs are highly skilled professionals with a deep understanding of online business management. At the same time, VAs may have expertise in specific areas, such as social media management or bookkeeping.
- Level of responsibility: OBMs are responsible for the entire business’s success, while VAs are responsible for completing specific tasks or projects.
- Management of other contractors: OBMs may be responsible for managing other contractors or team members, while VAs typically work independently.
Why it’s Important to Understand the Distinction
As a business owner, it’s important to understand the difference between an OBM and a VA so that you can hire the right professional for your needs. If you’re looking for someone to manage the overall operations of your online business, an OBM may be the right choice. On the other hand, if you need help with specific tasks or projects, a VA may be a better fit.
Understanding the distinction between the two roles can help you better manage your team. If you’re working with an OBM and a VA, you’ll need to have clear communication and expectations for each role so that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals.
Ready to Decide Between an OBM or a VA?
While both OBMs and VAs provide valuable support to business owners, there are important differences between the two roles. As a business owner, it’s important to understand these distinctions so that you can hire the right professional for your needs and manage your team effectively. Whether you choose to work with an OBM, a VA, or both, having a skilled and reliable team in place can help ensure the success of your online business.
If you’re business news an OBM – schedule your call today! Let me help you with your business management so you can focus on earning revenue.