It is time to outsource work in your business, but do you hire a virtual assistant (VA) or an online business manager (OBM). What’s the difference?
There seems to be a lot of confusion when it comes to the differences between a virtual assistant and an online business manager. They are often used interchangeably; which is incorrect. While they are similar, there are obvious differences between the two.
As someone who offers both types of services, I am excited to discuss with you the differences between the two so that you can make an informed decision as to which type of support you need for your growing business.
What is a Virtual Assistant?
A virtual assistant virtually supports business owners with administrative tasks or utilizes their specific skill set on an “as-needed” basis. They are a skilled entrepreneur that is there to complete the day-to-day tasks or assist on projects. They typically report either to the business owner or an online business manager who will oversee their work.
What is the Goal of a Virtual Assistant?
The goal of a virtual assistant is to complete the day-to-day tasks or help with projects so that the business owner has more time to focus on the tasks that they can only complete; in addition to being a visionary leader.
What is an Online Business Manager?
An online business manager virtually supports an online based business with day-to-day management of projects, operations, and team members. They work with the business owner to discuss strategy and priorities in order to oversee the daily operations or projects. They are highly skilled and lead a team, often including virtual assistants, web designers, writers, and social media experts.
What is the Goal of an Online Business Manager?
The goal of an online business manager is to take over the daily operations of an online business to ‘free up’ time for the business owner so they can concentrate on being a visionary leader for their business.
How Do You Know Who to Hire?
As with any business, you as an owner need to determine which type of support you need for your growing business.
You can see that while the two are similar; however, they are not the same. Let’s simplify the differences between the two.
If you need someone to help you during the early stages of your business to complete simple tasks so that you have the time where you can focus on other tasks in your business, then you should consider hiring a virtual assistant.
If you are a more established business owner and you are unable to grow or scale your business by yourself, then you should consider hiring an online business manager to help you remove the tasks that are taking up too much of your time and having them delegate the tasks to other members of your team or complete the more skilled tasks themselves.
Now that you know the difference, you can make an informed decision on which type of support you need for your business.
CLICK HERE to find out how I can help support you and your business.