Online Business Manager or Virtual Assistant: Understand the Key Differences
As businesses scale and grow, so does the level of operational management required to sustain the business. At an operational level, someone is required to handle the daily administrative tasks, at a tactical level, an administrative manager to translate the strategic objectives into action, and at the strategic level, an operations professional will determine the operational direction for the company. Examples of job titles at these levels respectively could look like an Administrator, Business Manager and Operations Director. The remote equivalents are typically a Virtual Assistants (VA), Online Business Manager (OBM) and Fractional Chief Operating Officer (COO). OBMs can also act in a strategic capacity.
There is an increasing reliance on remote professionals to streamline operations, manage tasks, and drive growth. For businesses in their early growth stages, Online Business Managers (OBMs) and Virtual Assistants (VAs) are pivotal. While they both work remotely and aim to enhance business efficiency, their roles, responsibilities, and impact on the business differ significantly. This article seeks to outline these differences, which are crucial for business owners looking to hire the right professional to meet their needs.
1 Level of Involvement
Virtual Assistant (VA):
VAs typically work on an hourly or project basis and are often hired for specific tasks. They require clear instructions and work best with defined tasks and deadlines, focusing on executing tasks rather than making decisions or managing other team members.
Online Business Manager (OBM):
OBMs are more deeply integrated into the business, working closely with owners to understand their vision, goals, and challenges. OBMs are proactive, identifying opportunities for improvement and implementing solutions. They often have more authority and responsibility, acting as a right-hand person to the business owner.
2 Scope of Responsibilities
Virtual Assistant (VA):
A Virtual Assistant handles specific, day-to-day tasks such as:
○ Administrative Support: Managing emails, scheduling meetings, and handling customer inquiries, research and liaising with suppliers
○ Content Creation: Compiling presentations, writing blog posts, creating social media content, and designing basic graphics.
○ Technical Support: Updating websites, managing databases, and assisting with technical issues.
○ Financial Administration: Tracking business and personal expenses, raising invoices, chasing invoices and liaising with accounting professionals.
○ Personal Assistance: Handling travel arrangements and managing personal appointments.
VAs typically focus on transactional and task-oriented activities, providing support where needed without taking on leadership roles.
Online Business Manager (OBM):
An Online Business Manager acts as a strategic partner, focusing on overall business management and growth. Key responsibilities can include, but not limited to:
○ Project Management: Overseeing projects from start to finish, ensuring timelines and resources are managed effectively.
○ Team Management: Recruiting, training, and managing team members, delegating tasks, and ensuring productivity.
○ Departmental Liaison: Liaising with HR, Finance, Marketing, Legal and Sales leads to ensure all functions are aligned to the organisation's strategic vision, talking to each other and utilising technology efficiently.
○ Operations Management: Developing organisational Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and implementing business systems and processes for efficiency and scalability.
○ Strategic Planning: Assisting with business planning, goal setting, and developing strategies.
○ Performance Tracking: Monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) and providing insights to drive growth.
OBMs engage in higher-level decision-making and have a broader scope, focusing on long-term goals and operational efficiency.
3 Required Skills and Expertise
Virtual Assistant (VA):
VAs need a diverse skill set depending on the tasks they are hired to perform, including:
○ Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with various software and tools like Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and project management platforms.
○ Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication for effective customer service and correspondence.
○ Organisational Skills: Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines efficiently.
Online Business Manager (OBM):
OBMs require more advanced and specialised skills, including:
○ Leadership and Management: Ability to lead and manage a team, delegate tasks, and ensure accountability.
○ Strategic Thinking: Skills in strategic planning, goal setting, and implementing business processes.
○ Analytical Skills: Proficiency in analysing data, monitoring KPIs, and making data-driven decisions.
○ Industry Knowledge: Understanding of the business’s industry, market trends, and competitive landscape.
4 Impact on Business
Virtual Assistant (VA):
VAs provide essential support, allowing business owners and team members to focus on more critical tasks. They help maintain smooth day-to-day operations, ensuring routine tasks are handled efficiently and professionally.
Online Business Manager (OBM): OBMs significantly impact overall business performance and growth. By optimising operations, managing projects, and leading teams, OBMs help businesses scale effectively and achieve long-term goals. Their strategic involvement can lead to substantial improvements in productivity, efficiency, and profitability.
Conclusion
While both Virtual Assistants and Online Business Managers play crucial roles in the modern business landscape, their contributions differ significantly. VAs are essential for handling routine tasks and providing administrative support, making them ideal for businesses needing help with specific, day-to-day operations. OBMs, on the other hand, can be both tactical and strategic partners who drive business growth, manage teams, and oversee operations, making them indispensable for businesses looking to scale and achieve long-term success. Understanding these differences can help business owners make informed decisions when hiring remote professionals to support their business needs.
By recognising the unique value each role brings, you can ensure that your business is equipped with the right skills and expertise to thrive in the competitive digital marketplace.