What is an Online Business Manager?

Today, I want to shed some light on the role of an online business manager (OBM) and provide you with a comprehensive understanding of their responsibilities. Whether you're curious about working with an OBM or considering becoming one yourself, you've come to the right place. So, let's dive in!

You can either watch the video here or keep reading below:

First, let's start with a definition I found on indeed.com: "An online business manager is a virtual support professional that helps organizations manage daily projects, processes, and team members." While this definition captures the essence of the role, I understand that it might not be enough to fully grasp the scope of an OBM's work. That's why I'm here to break it down further for you.

Before we proceed, it's important to note that the role of an online business manager can vary from one business to another. Not all OBMs provide the same services, as it depends on the specific needs and preferences of the business and its owner. However, I'll outline some of the common tasks and responsibilities typically associated with the role.

Management and Organization:

As an OBM, one of our primary functions is to manage various aspects of a business behind the scenes. We take our clients' big ideas and break them down into manageable tasks. From research and planning to delegation and approval, we oversee projects from start to finish. Additionally, we ensure that projects and tasks remain on track and effectively communicate with team members throughout the process.

Systemization and Automation:

Many OBMs offer system setups using tools like Asana or Dubsado, which help streamline and automate processes behind the scenes. By organizing and systematizing the business, we aim to make our clients' work more efficient and productive. We create systems and processes that enhance workflow and promote seamless collaboration within the entire team.

Accountability and Support:

We provide accountability to our clients, helping them stay on track with their tasks and deadlines. If you struggle with meeting deadlines and completing tasks, having an accountability partner like an OBM can greatly assist you in achieving your goals. We engage in discussions, brainstorming sessions, and provide guidance to help our clients prioritize and strategize for success. Drawing upon our experience and education, we offer valuable opinions and suggestions tailored to their unique circumstances.

Buffering:

Acting as a buffer between our clients and the various demands on their time and energy is another crucial aspect of the OBM role. We offer solutions to free up their valuable time and mental space. By handling multiple responsibilities, we help keep our clients focused and alleviate the overwhelm that often accompanies managing a business. Acting as the liaison between clients and their teams, we ensure smooth communication and efficient coordination.

For Example:

To give you an example of how an OBM might work with a client, let's consider a scenario where a client has several ambitious ideas for their business. In such cases, the client would meet with their OBM (that's me!) for a brainstorming session. Together, we would prioritize the ideas and decide on the best course of action. Once the choices are made, I would create a detailed plan, breaking down the overwhelming ideas into actionable steps. I use Asana to organize and visualize the entire process, making it easy to manage all the moving parts.

As the project progresses, I take charge of delegation, team management, and overall project coordination. I ensure that everyone has the necessary resources and support to complete their tasks effectively. Additionally, I address any challenges that arise, offering prompt solutions to keep the project on track and deliver the desired outcomes.

I hope this breakdown has provided you with a clear understanding of what an online business manager does. Remember, the specific tasks and services offered by an OBM may vary based on individual expertise and client needs. Some OBMs specialize in specific areas, such as Asana setups, while others offer a broader range of services. It's crucial to find an OBM whose skills align with your business requirements.

Online business managers play a vital role in helping entrepreneurs and online service providers effectively manage and streamline their businesses. From project management and organization to systemization, accountability, and buffering, OBMs provide valuable support and expertise to enhance productivity and success.

If you have any further questions about the role of an online business manager, please feel free to reach out. I'd be happy to address them in a future blog post or video. If you found this information helpful, please like and subscribe to stay updated on future content.

Thank you for reading, and I'll see you soon with more valuable insights and tips. Remember, with the right support, your business can thrive and reach new heights of success!