OBM vs VA: Why Your Growing Business Needs More Than Just Admin Support
Ever tried to fix a leaky roof with a plaster? That's a bit like hiring a Virtual Assistant when what you really need is an Online Business Manager. Don't get me wrong – VAs are brilliant at what they do! But if your business is scaling up and you're still drowning in work despite having a VA, you might be using the wrong tool for the job.
What's the Real Difference?
Think of it this way: A VA is your extra pair of hands, while an OBM is your extra brain. VAs help you tackle your to-do list (and thank goodness for that!), but OBMs help you transform how your business runs.
The Task Breakdown: VA vs OBM
Here's a clear comparison of what each role typically handles:
| Virtual Assistant (VA) | Online Business Manager (OBM) |
|---|---|
| Manages your inbox | Creates comprehensive business systems |
| Handles basic data entry | Develops automation strategies |
| Books your appointments | Designs client onboarding processes |
| Takes meeting notes | Implements project management systems |
| Handles basic customer service | Manages and trains your team |
| Updates your website | Oversees business transformation projects |
| Formats documents | Creates standard operating procedures |
| Manages your calendar | Plans quarterly business operations |
When Do You Need an OBM?
You might need an OBM if you:
Have a VA but still feel overwhelmed
Keep hitting the same business bottlenecks
Find yourself managing multiple team members
Need someone to implement your vision
Want to step away from day-to-day operations
Are ready to scale but don't know how
Real Talk: The Investment
Let's be honest – an OBM costs more than a VA. But it's like comparing apples and oranges. While a VA helps you get through your daily tasks (absolutely essential!), an OBM transforms how your business operates.
The Bottom Line
Your VA is brilliant at helping you stay on top of tasks. But if you're ready to transform your business from a one-person show into a well-oiled machine, you need an OBM. Think less "doing the tasks" and more "building the systems."
Ready to take your business to the next level? Let's chat about how an OBM can help you stop working IN your business and start working ON it.
