Have you ever wondered about the difference between an Online Business Manager (OBM) and a Virtual Assistant (VA)?
The roles of an OBM and a VA have become pivotal in helping businesses operate efficiently. They have different duties, responsibilities, and levels of expertise. However, they are often misconstrued or used interchangeably. This can lead to confusion for entrepreneurs who are looking for support because they don’t truly understand what kind of team members they need for their business.
OBMs play a strategic role in shaping a business's trajectory. They actively participate in decision-making, providing valuable insights and recommendations that contribute to long-term success. These professionals are akin to the captains of a ship, steering the course toward growth and prosperity. Unlike their task-focused counterparts, OBMs focus on the bigger picture, wielding a strategic mindset that elevates the business to new heights.
In contrast, VAs are the virtuosos of task management. With a focus on execution and precision, VAs handle a myriad of operational duties that keep the gears of a business well-oiled and running smoothly.
Business Oversight and Task-Oriented Support
An OBM works closely with the business owner to help manage and streamline various aspects of the business operations. They oversee various aspects of the business, including project management, team coordination, and systems optimization. They ensure that operations run smoothly and efficiently.
On the other hand, a VA typically focuses on providing task-oriented support to a business. They handle various administrative, technical, or creative tasks that allow business owners to focus on strategic activities.
Delegation and Team Management and Supportive Role
OBMs delegate tasks to team members, ensuring each role is performed effectively. They provide leadership, direction, and advice to the team, fostering collaboration and synergy.
While VAs offer support taking the lead in routine and time-consuming tasks, freeing up the business owner's time to focus on more strategic activities. They usually have specific assignments and responsibilities, from email management and scheduling to social media upkeep and research. They execute tasks based on instructions provided by the business owner or OBM and are often not involved in high-level decision-making or strategy development.
Client Relations and Limited Client Interaction
Building and nurturing client relationships is a core responsibility of an OBM. They often act as a bridge between the business owner and clients, ensuring expectations are met and communications are smooth.
While VAs may interact with clients to handle basic queries or support, they are less likely to manage client relationships or engage in significant client communication compared to OBMs.
Although an OBM and a VA have different roles, they both stand as pillars of support for businesses. While both roles contribute to the success of a business, they differ in terms of their level of responsibility, the scope of work, and focus. Understanding the distinct roles these professionals play is vital for businesses seeking to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and scale up.
Get to know more about how an OBM and a VA can support your business. Book a discovery call here. It’s time to create space to breathe.