Choosing the right Online Business Manager for your design or creative business can initially feel overwhelming. However, it doesn’t have to be that way.
As long as you have a clear plan of action, you’ll find the interviewing and hiring process relatively simple.
The key is to ensure you’re asking the right questions and gathering the information to make the right hire.
First things first: The acronym OBM stands for Online Business Manager.
What does an OBM do?
He or she is a virtually based support professional who manages online-based businesses and remote teams.
They oversee the day-to-day management of projects, operations, metrics, and teams.
The role of an OBM is to make sure the right THINGS, get done at the right TIME, in the right WAY and by the right PEOPLE.
As an OBM, I am able to plug into the big picture, layout plans, and work with the entire team to ensure that everyone is ‘getting the right stuff done’ and progress is being made to meet the goals of the business.
Here are the six tips to help you pick the right OBM:
TIP #1 - Book a Discovery Call
Would you bring a client on board without doing a discovery call? No, right!
Like your discovery call process with your clients, use this time to get to know the Online Business Manager.
These calls are usually 20-30 minutes, and I recommend you prepare for the call by reviewing their services and writing down your questions.
Tip #2 - Evaluate why you think you need an OBM
Where did that thought come from? Is it something you’ve been thinking about for a while or more of a spur-of-the-moment reaction to something someone said, etc.? I encourage you to share this on the discovery call.
An OBM is an Integrator + Project Manager, helping creative entrepreneurs like you cut out overwhelm and spend more time in your zone of genius.
Tip #3 - Know your desired outcome
What is the desired outcome you want to reach for your business? Are you hoping to work fewer hours in your business and want someone to manage it for you, or are you looking for an expert to work alongside you?
Do you want someone who can run a creative studio or business? Or a generalist-type of manager? Know what tasks you want them to take on and ensure their skills and experience match.
Tip #4 - Confirm the duration of your partnership
It's essential to remember that an OBM typically works on a minimum 3-month retainer.
This is because it takes time for an OBM to understand your business and implement effective strategies.
Therefore, make sure you're comfortable with the duration of the retainer and can afford your investment in hiring them.
Tip #5 - Establish their availability
Many OBMs will work with 2 to 4 business owners at a time. Therefore, they might not be able to partner with you right away. If your first choice is unavailable immediately, I highly recommend you wait and start taking action to bring them on successfully when the time comes. The OBM should be able to give you a list of steps to take while waiting.
Tip #6 - Confirm their personality traits and work styles
It is essential to ensure that your personalities and work styles are compatible. This is because you will work closely with the OBM, and any clash in personalities or work styles can lead to a lack of productivity and even project failure. Take some time to find out about them, not just their skills.
There you have it - my six tips for choosing the right Online Business Manager for your business.
Follow these tips to find the perfect fit for you and take your small business to the next level!
Have questions? I genuinely love what I do as a certified Online Business Manager. I love the results my clients see and am here to help you grow your business calmly.
Hey there- if we haven’t had a chance to meet yet, I’m Kirstin, a former corporate gal turned small business owner who virtually supports female entrepreneurs. To learn how we can partner together, check my Services.
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